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May 2016

May 2016

TRAVEL TIPS

Senate Rejects Plan to Stop Airline Seats Shrinking

Airline seats are getting smaller, Americans are getting bigger—and the Senate has decided the issue is none of its business. A proposal from Sen. Charles Schumer to do something about ever-shrinking airline seats and legroom was rejected by a 54-to-42 vote, with almost every Republican in the chamber voting against it, the BBC reports. The amendment from Schumer—who complains that “it costs you an arm and a leg just to have room for your arms and legs”—was attached to a broader aviation bill. It would have banned airlines from reducing seat size and the distance between rows for 30 days while the FAA worked on setting seat size and row spacing requirements for US airlines, reports CNNMoney. It would also have required airlines to post seat sizes on their websites. The amendment “would ensure that airlines can’t keep chopping down on seat size and legroom until consumers are packed in like sardines in a can on every flight,” said Schumer, who blamed airline lobbyists for the defeat. “Flying is not pleasant anymore. You’re crammed in.” The Washington Post notes that the width of the average economy seat has shrunk to 17 inches from 18.5 inches since the ‘70s, rows are now more than 4 inches closer together, and the proportion of Americans considered obese has soared to 35%, over the same period. A similar amendment introduced in the House earlier this year was also shot down.

ShopInRI Selects: Norwegian Epic as the #1 Cruise Ship in the World

Explore the history of the Mediterranean, feel the balmy breezes of the Bahamas and the Caribbean, or just sit back and relax while you cruise across the Atlantic. Whatever you choose to do, Norwegian Epic is sure to dazzle. Awarded Best Cruise Ship Entertainment by Frommer’s, Norwegian Epic keeps the bar high with two new Broadway shows: Ballroom Blitz and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Not only is Norwegian Epic offering world-class performers but a new wave of accommodations as well - from Studios, designed and priced for the solo traveler, to the private Haven. Add more than 20 different dining options and you’ll understand why this is Freestyle Cruising on a truly grand scale.

Beach-goers flock to St. Maarten for wild plane landings By Caribbean standards, Maho Beach in St. Maarten may not be the most idyllic. But many would certainly call it one of the most exhilarating beaches anywhere. The small beach is located at the end of Runway 10 at Princess Juliana International Airport on the Dutch side of this half Dutch/ half French island. And that runway happens to be a short one. When planes make their final approach, they do so right on top of sunbathers and snorkelers. And when they take off, the blast from their engines can literally send people tumbling down the sand or into the ocean. A sign on the gate separating the runway from a narrow two-lane road next to the beach warns people not to get too close.

“Jet blast of departing and arriving aircraft can cause severe physical harm resulting in extreme bodily harm and/or death,” the sign reads. But that doesn’t stop hundreds of people from showing up at the beach each day.

Harriet Tubman to replace Andrew Jackson on $20 bill

Earlier rumors had it that Treasury Secretary, Jack Lew was soon to announce a major change to the new $10 bill specifically, that a woman would replace Alexander Hamilton as the main mug. Instead, Lew announced that abolitionist Harriet Tubman is going on the $20 bill, kicking President Andrew Jackson to the back of the bill. Hamilton is staying put, and leaders of the women’s suffrage movement will be put on the back of the sawbuck. Prominent figures from the civil rights movement will also get a spot on the $5 bill. Initial discussion to kick Hamilton to the currency curb was met with resistance, including from ex-Federal Reserve Chief, Ben Bernanke, who said he was “appalled” at dishonoring the “best and most foresighted economic policymaker in US history.” And a women’s advocacy group pointed out last year that people are more likely to have a $20 bill in their wallet than a $10 bill. Jackson had a terrible rep for his brutal role in removing Native Americans from their land. If confirmed, Tubman would be the first African-American and the second woman to appear on US paper currency, per the Palm Beach Post. That other woman? Martha Washington, who appeared on a $1 silver note in the 1880s and ‘90s, per the Atlantic.

FrontPage Top 4 Political analysts...

Anderson Cooper Anderson Cooper 360

Robin Roberts Good Morning America

Megyn Kelly The Kelly File

Matt Lauer Today Show

Michael Strahan moving on to Good Morning America

Michael Strahan is leaving the daily talk show he co-hosts with Kelly Ripa to work full time on Good Morning America, reports the AP. The former NFL star has worked a couple of days a week at GMA for the past two years, but he always has to leave midway through to head to the Live With Kelly and Michael studio on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. He’s joining the show’s regular cast of Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, Lara Spencer, Amy Robach, and Ginger Zee. GMA leads the network morning shows in ratings, but its competition with NBC’s second-place, Today, has gotten tighter in recent months. Today frequently wins the ratings in a younger demographic, that is used as a basis for most advertising sales. Ripa and Strahan won an Emmy last year for outstanding entertainment talk show hosts, as the show had made a complete transition from a program that began in the 1980s with Regis Philban.

One of the biggest challenges in adapting the film to the stage? Getting rid of outdated references while staying as faithful as possible to the Sure, Tina Fey had a stint on SNL, a original script. “Like three-way callseven-year run on 30 Rock, co-hosted ing is not a thing anymore,” she noted. the Golden Globes, and has a new Netflix hit, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, but now the 45-year-old comedian and writer is putting together a musical based on the 2004 movie Mean Girls, which she wrote, the Guardian reports. Speaking with TV Guide writer Damian Holbrook at the Tribeca Film Festival, Fey notes, “she has a long summer break before Schmidt starts filming its third season.”

Tina Fey Making ‘Mean Girls’ a Musical

wORLD NEWS Cops Get Creative to Capture Mafia Boss

A pizza loving mafia boss in Naples is on his way to prison. Cops say 35-yearold Roberto Manganiello was arrested at his home by police officers disguised as pizza deliverymen, AFP reports. He had been on the run since 2013 and was listed as one of Italy’s 100 most dangerous criminals for crimes that included an alleged 2004 double murder that started a feud in the Camorra Mafia clan. Police say he was running a drug and extortion racket from the home north of Naples, where he was arrested without incident after opening the door to the phony delivery boys.

UK Cheers Queen’s Historic 90th With Stamp, Longer Pub Hours

Queen Elizabeth II has become the first British sovereign to reach her 90th birthday and is celebrating in a very royal way: with a stamp. An official photo showing four generations of royals, the queen and princes Charles, William, and George, will be put on first-class stamps. The queen took it easy on her birthday, relaxing with family. She’ll be one of 10,000 attendees at a birthday picnic in June (when her birthday is ceremonially marked), when pubs will be open for an extra two hours. Prince William shared kind words, noting she’s been a “strong female influence” who helped him through the death of his mother. He also recalls getting into trouble as a kid and being on the receiving end of “the most almighty bollocking.”

Castaways Rescued After Spelling ‘Help’

Three castaways might still be stuck on a remote, uninhabited Pacific island if they hadn’t made a sign. The sailors were saved after a US Navy plane spotted that they had spelled out “HELP” in palm fronds on Fanadik Island, which lies around 2,600 miles southwest of Honolulu, The men, who also waved orange life jackets to attract the plane’s attention, had been stranded for three days after their boat capsized, forcing them to swim all night to the island. The men were found on the Micronesian island just two hours after the Navy P-8 crew Misawa Air Base in Japan joined the search, which was coordinated by the Coast Guard after the men’s vessel failed to arrive at its destination. The Coast Guard says it has carried out seven similar missions in the area over the last two weeks alone. “The Coast Guard 14th district covers an area of responsibility more than 12.2 million square miles of land and sea, an area almost twice the size of Russia,” Jennifer Conklin, search and rescue mission coordinator at the Coast Guard Command Center Honolulu, said in a press release.

This Is the World’s Oldest Message in a Bottle It’s official: A year after retired German postal worker Marianne Winkler discovered a message in a bottle on the German island of Amrun, Guinness World Records has confirmed it’s the world’s oldest at 108 years, four months, and 18 days. That beats out the former record holder by more than nine years. George Parker Bidder of the Marine Biological Association dropped 1,020 bottles off the coast of England between 1904 and 1906, each containing a note promising that whoever found it would be awarded a shilling, reports the Guardian. Upon finding hers last April, Winkler spied a note inside: “Break the bottle.” She tells the Plymouth Herald her husband tried to avoid that fate, but they ultimately shattered the vessel, removed the enclosed postcard, and followed Bidder’s instructions: record when and where the bottle was found and return the card to the MBA in Plymouth.

There, the returned postcard left the receptionist “somewhat confused,” rep Guy Baker tells the Independent, as Bidder—who ultimately became president of the MBA—had died in 1954. Others, however, recognized the message from Bidder’s bottle experiment, which allowed him to establish an east-to-west flow in the North Sea’s deep-sea current. Baker says Bidder recorded a 55% return rate on the bottles, with many discovered by fisherman who enjoyed the shilling reward. Winkler received the same. “We found an old shilling, I think we got it on eBay,” Baker says. As for the note, “it is one of the earliest examples of a citizen science project and will now go on display somewhere.”

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CARS DESERVE A SPA DAY TOO The Official Soda of12-13 Rhode Island BY ADAM HOGUE

Editor Anthony Manzo Executive Editor It’s not Jeffrey Manzo

By Susan Gazerro

60-61

Olneyville New York System A Rhode Island Staple For Over 70 Years

By Kelly Paterson

an easy task to keep a business running By:a Mario Faronebusiness, but for 40 years, especially restaurant Oki Japanese Seventy Steakhouse, located at 1270 Minyears ago this very month, in Providence Rhode Island, one the eral Spring Avenue in North Providence hasofpretty General Manager state’s standing was in much managed to dolongest just that. Oki’straditions opened back Michael McDonald born. 1976; at the time the original owner Yukio Oki had Ask your parents about Olneyville New decided to tryYork out System. a hibachi style restaurant, which Ask your grandparents Creative Director & Managing Editor was be the first of it.itsAsk kind in RI.they’ll The tell restaurant about anyone; you. A popular order would be, two theyears way, David Patricio was a huge hit, and was consistently busy.allAs a fry, and a coffee milk. NY System passed, other hibachi style restaurants would pop up has become such an inseparable part of Vice President throughout the state, but they never achieved the Rhode Island; it rivals the anchor, itself. Anddid. even after all these years, NY SystemCaron Brian Kelly status that Oki‘s

RI

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Jewelry. “My parents store was more traditional, whereas we have moved towards custom design work and more exclusive inventory. We are expanding our bridal and fine jewelry fabrication and enjoy working with couples on creating something that is not only one-of-a-kind, but will last a lifetime,” explained Joe.

Hometown

Though reinventing the family business was always in the back of Joe’s mind, he is thankful with how all the pieces fell into place. Both Joe and Diane are appreciative of the warm welcome (and welcome back) they have received since reopening, “We love being a part of the Bristol business scene. It is an amazingly diverse community and we enjoy getting to know our customers personally while providing a trust based service.”

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With four pr from Barrington to We tic Group helps straigh

For many, associations nonspecific imagery but modern braces ma ers, straight teeth are s orthodontic problems health issues.

Gaulin In

ALSACE APPLE STRUDEL By Jane VassarWITH CINNAMON ICE CREAM

“Orthodontics are imp Turchetta, DDS, and f tic Group said. “Not o to it that goes to your but there is also a func 73 Owners Joe Caron and needof to hit properly. Another unique offering Finhave your 24-25 vehicle 15 Monday-Saturday 8am to 5pm Diane Berube-Catanzaro Joe credits much of his industry lose them early, or you to his father, and detailed at Finest and on experience bite and you chew Sundays, 9am to 4pm. est Car Wash is its fullyouautomothough there are many lessons way.” onWhile store right Joe learned during his television early you will understand They arethatonly vorites among theirtain customers. bigclosed screen which the fo-convenience four days a is tive

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vi Once you washed or an Car Wash, years at the shop, there is one most people do come to Oki for the hi-“ saying he cal still point carries with him area. Their lounge thealso premises. They offer everyof that Turchetta embraces why it’s called Finest Car Wash. year: Thanksgiving, Christmas, today, “If you don’t know your Celebrating 2nd Anniversary fashioned patient care bachi, a lot of people are alsothere starting to featuresthe a new wooden menu, floor with more 42-43 automotive accessoA line offor yellow mustard is the active first Owner, Peter Montaquila, Jr. told New YearsbyDay, can onl keeping ingredients, game and the O andlighting. Easter. Full thing A Jewelers celebrated its many transformations. Now an stone designs from The Rare notice that they also serve a plethora of a beautiful addition, followed by the infamous System, and décor as close to original modern NY digital imagin ries, including air fresheners and me that this family busiEarth Mining Company, luxury iconic window front on Hopeowned 2nd Anniversary this April, but is still bringing in customers from across you should definitely service 361 asdays a year! Stevens’ family meat sauce, which be willing to possible, it ensures jewelry the same desk, the Warwick offi sushi. There are well over 30 different its Bristolian history extends well Street, the store’s colorful and men and women’s watches from know your jeweler.” window wiper blades. Whatever the city, state, and the country! So, beyond those two years. Aness, fo estate jewelry, and by Citizen, vintage whichdisplays, wascreatedopened by his fixture whimsical knowledgeable practiti is a lean ground beeffrom seasoned Oki had a partner involved in even running the restauthe country quality service andunder experience the selections which to choose. Mar- j Oki’s is also new management. at 473 Hope Street for nearly half Joe’s wife Diane, are eye candy for Doron Paloma’s Dove collection what’s their secret? How can a 70-year-old Caronto Jewelers celebrating ancesbe of teeth withneed secretsfor brought over from hard position work an your car can purmany decades of regulars the will beyou that has been touted by celebrities passersby. takes grandfather in all1957, much rant, but sadlybusiness their relationship dissolved which leda century, Bert and Dot Caron first jewelry lovers and Assistant Director its of 2nd Anniversary,Martino April 8-10. tino states, “Everyone thinks of Oki’s General Manager Vincent still be growing in popularity? opened the store in 1956. Their The renovated interior presents on the red carpet. “It’s not You can choose from one the H your Greece some 100 years ago. Next, Stevens’ fam NY System have comeThe to know and chased weekend-long celebration its closing,Well, withthe Oki retiring. About two yearsoldest son Joe now runs thepride atasFinest. grandmother’s jewelry store inviting, modern ambience “Quality Problems chew their work. is full store, anin answer is quite simple – they’re hibachi; don’t realizebiting, that our about the in-store lounge, will feature sales, come astatraffle, the diced yellow they onions, and of whic Peter Matteoto love.speaks Thosehighly returning customers service packages: Bronze, at an early age learned the while still maintaining much of anymore, but she still shops here,” the cheek,most crowded or and refreshments for participating ago, Oki came hiswieners brief retirement and re-who theout bestofhot you’ll ever have. explained Joe, “We have fashions buildings people historic accents. 20 finally, a sprinkle of celery saltand for what brings back”. They sushi lounge area sushi menu are inner workings of running the the ing that it is truly ideal for any kind for over 15 ye bring with them new customers, customers and visitors. Other The two landed in Brooklyn, New York where they first Silver, Granny Smith apples are used in this recipe because as well as speech diffi age GoldandorthePlatinum. Or, youinclude Close to one century ago, father taught The charming layout invites and designs for all tastes and opened the restaurant. Husband andNicholas wife teamfamily business, “My eventslovtwo antrunk extra zest of flavor. And all there regulars, and generations ofmajor wiener years old and other issu topnotch.” of cocktail reception or fundraiser. He Car washing is not they do. groups.” customers to browse its the eyeme to repair watches andwant solder you to love noticeable opened a small candy shop. They remained there for some they stay crisp and tart, and delectable when topped shows with Rare Earth Mining Stevens immigrated to America from silver jewelry. I even opened my catching casements with each you have it, a NY System wiener. m the history o may wish to opt for an interior or dental alignment issue ers continue to grow and grow. Salvatore and Marie Esposito, along with their two in June and cream December, as well as years before moving their family to Rhode Island inalso thecarries a saysoff they havevanilla been aggressively seekResearch & Development with ice sprinkled cinnamon. Caron Jewelers display showcasing an eclectic They alsowith offer full service auto Greece, alongside his father, Anthony. own electric shaver repair business improvement of your car after initially visiting an enc orth Well… participating in the British Car that’s just one. You can’t even the And for good reason, too! Over children Michael and Donna, joined up with Oki asin the back of the1930s, selection handcrafted classiciteration and modern opening up theoffirst of the NY of System at pottery store when I was selection exterior detail. Areceptions detail, whether The contrastand between the information flakiness ofAthe dough andand primary reason why Oki’s has been Festival. For more ing gathering for the tercept and monitor an eat just one. Better get two, from Three Wheel Studios in jewelry designs. Current highin American repair. the years, Olneyville NY System th they’ve finished They Danielle Manzo follow Caron Jewelers on Facebook 8 Olneyville Square, serving hotwith wienersit. and other lunch from partners. However, Oki was getting older and de-twelve,” Joe reminisced. the smoothness of the ice apples is local unis long the basic idea behind end lines include: Nicole Barr, Providence, artist etchings Commercial, residential, auto, lifeand insurance—even so well for so isthe attributed lounge. It is ahave venue to cream interior or has exterior, will you ifhold you’re a doing Rhode Island that Olneyvill or visit BristolJewelryDesigner. received plenty ofperfect awards and and items. Following their early success, the Stevens’ family Diane, as well as its very own British designer Jonathan Though the name remains the Marika, tinual pressure exerted know that’s what brings you back. beatable. This for both dessert orVincent ifSystem com.dish is delightful cided to retire just a few months ago so he couldsame, hasup actually tried like a in home attention forIttheir Ltd., precious natural signature collection of Mt. Hope to never their staff.NY thinks the exthem. canconsistently easily accommodate the store moved has undergone tha to theirLynne current location on Plainfield Street in 1946,driving away feeling like you just roots the teeth place wantIt to itfeaas a treat tonext yourwell, May breakfast. So, time you are in Provibefore… better getthe three. insurance delicious forto 200 ayoumenu. popular board game—Chris Gaulin has spend more time with his family. Now that the ball fam hasadd been desired position. m perience in kitchen isextended what Too has people. Martino also talks about and has been there ever since. Board Members bought a new car! also As the Plainfield location steadily Nicholas, G tured in manyYou local can and national necessary for orthodon was in the Esposito family court, they were looking dence, stop at Finest Car Wash, ty I drive by a lot of car washes “We try to keep everything exactly as it was, as people helped their business stay afloat. Their how they are currently working onapproaches fea2 Travel Tips remember it to be,” Greg Stevens, 43fourth RIgeneration Feudfam-Rhode its platinum anniversaaway ov the duration oflittle the trea articles, television shows such Ingredients: as is the third 75 Waterloov Island covered. Chris generation to choose from a wax, rust removal, Michael Motato re-brand the name, but also wanted to stay true located at 38 Pleasant Valley Parkhead chef has been with the company and often see the customer wipa table-side menu that serves ry—and as wieners and coffee milk told me how Manturing vs. Food, and has even wonbutter ily owner told me as we spoke along the counter on a busywheel, undercarriage, - 4 tbsp. fin to what Oki had worked so hard on for so long. orunsalted tire seven workbusiness on renewing their for about 28 vows—I years, “We and have along withoffices his for James those who serwant something dedicated to Dr. Joseph Matrullo way. the entrées prestigious Beard Award, ing Greg down their car alongside after it’s Gaulin a family that’s been weeknight. started working hisbeen father at operate the Island Orthodontic G - 3Insurance, tsp. ground cinnamon After Oki’s departure, they took into consideration asked Gregassistants, what he believed kept late hours he which honored NY System as a vice. they have a combined 150 other than hibachi. The entrées would 44 Classic Man Barbershop youngwashed, age of 14, washing dishes and now with owns and manages 3 Front Page and sons, second and th or wrangling the Dr. Paul Matrullo Vanilla ice cream the customers coming back after and family-owned American Classic on 76 lounge Ask anwhich Expert what many of their customers’ complaints had been, a part of the Cranston community since 1961, Chris the business, alongside his sister, Stephanie. Greg believes been here,covered, at the Warw years of hibachi cooking experience. be served in their area, at Doesn’t deservethat a Car Spa all these your years. car He responded self serve vacuums. This would ed. Greg, and a national The location regu- 6scale. Granny Smith apples, the locations provide t most of them directed at the lighting quality in Between their techniques and keepW the moment serves appetizers, soups, “for him, probably thecar majorlarly receives from across They really cover itvisitors all, from a and Photographythe building being far too dark. So they had state Day? all,cored, your does lot wishe never happen at Finest! are has inherited quite aeven legacy, it’sAfter aand job he takes ex-afamily, -¼ freshly grated nutmeg peeled, 46-47They Gaspee Days it authentic, with some staff memandtsp. sushi. ity, it’s the ing personality NY System Turchetta’s father, Dr. here to celeb 4 National News the salads northeast and the counbasic wash to a full detailing. It’s for you, and if you’re anything and cut into ½-inch dice of the/ art installed to completely brighten A a full brushless carspace, in Apponaug Soozie Sundlun EGlighting Photo has kept alive allincluding these years, a practice bles, each one seats service, 8 per table.100% They also opened up the with the com try, with no more 81 than Louie’s Barber Shop bers, their sushi chef hailing tremely seriously. “Imotivation want to pass ondough what I a learned group includes character so unique, history 8 sheets thawed phyllo the place up. The Espositos were also interested of- what you wantfrozen ingso thefather etern me, it’s your second home; an excellent wiener and infamous wash.it in When they them say more fullroom. ser-Next,just a matter almost doubling size and giving right fromand Japan, these are the types of However, when it comes to thelike menu Kacewicz as well ashav Dr Michael Belsito be so intertwined with Rhode Island’s seems to coffee milk. in bringing a new image to the restaurant so they ½ cup plus 2 tbsp. sugar 51 The Beauty Within car needs. thethey old bar and reconstructed a newopen one. Sofrom asand what it to a few minutes of location luxury! nal on Post Ro things that definitely them with beitems serve and to whathelp istreat popuvice mean it! They are my your dad tothey mydo team, us be successful,” 5 World Newsthey removed postwar era’s development and aidhe apt hands in

caron jewelers b y n e k o c ata n z a r o

features

didn’t stop with the lighting, but instead renovated - 1 cupnotes turbinado sugar soon as you walk in, you are greeted by a beautiful, modern ingDidn’t a highly accomplished restaurant. Martino that their hibanightlife. For those return visilegacy, it’shi sa has lar, gone unchanged since first 84 12theboth Things You Know Writers erly and Wickford, an the entire place. Now they have 16 new hibachi ta- ½Chris cup raisins says. Success means not just selling policies; itare wrap around style bar, 18-20 feet long. Plus there is a nice tors, like traveling back Martino finds his patrons looking chifor filet strip and lobster strip are fa-it’s truly always and wiener sold, as wellgolden as their daily just with different houfo 51 Virtu Art Kara Caldarone in time. Back to the good ol ‘days, the counter. preparations. “The wieners begin 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted, melted butter pa 8-9 Love & Live RI-Westerly means doing it- rope with integrity educating his customto thean Ame when things were simple andAccording Keep ey as a long of a traditional mix- by to Brian Lowney archeologists have Fac cred the nights wereheat. long –Add a place In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium the for System’s ture of beef, pork,84 and veal, which What’s Up With That be as“the the first practitione reminiscence, merriment, and a ers to make informed choices, and ensuring that information apples and stir until the apples are heated through, about 5 they cut themselves daily,” Greg 52-53 Caron Jewelers Amanda Hemond meal.” 11 Chef Adam Baffoni event for the stated. Once the Stir wiener is cooked, minutes. in the granulated damn sugar,good raisins, 1 teaspoon of 19 This is perhaps the reason why Patrick Burke and be sure t right person has right policy.” it’s placed inthe a steam-softened bun. Remove cinnamon, and the nutmeg. from the heat and let Recipe 93 Balance Wealth cool to room temperature. ye Kelly Paterson 55 Chrissy’s Hair Tips Management Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with Allie Herzog Gaulin Insurance is inpaper. a good doonjust that— parchment Place aposition sheet of phylloto dough a work 12-13 Oki’s Steakhouse Chef Adam Baffoni 59 Movie Review surface with the long side facing you. Brush the sheet with with a team that has over 100 years of combined experithe melted butter, then sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of turbiAdam Hogue 95Repeat Edward Jones Spring nado sugar. these steps with 3 more-sheets of phyllo, 14 Creamy Dijon Potato ence, they are uniquely qualified local residents’ creating a stack. Spoon half ofto the meet apple filling on the botChelsea Hutchings Cleaning 60-61 Cover Story tom third of the stacked phyllo facing you and roll the phylSalad Recipe Mario Farone lo around the filling into abeing log. Repeat to make anotherpros log. insurance needs. And while insurance has Jane Vassar Placebusiness the strudels on the prepared sheets and brush the tops helped this local thrive, its longevity is owed in 96 Common Courtesy 63 Benefits of Sleep 15 Alsace Apple Strudel Julia Romano of each with melted butter. Sprinkle each strudel with turbiThe classic Stevens’ family recipe

Contributors Al Matthews Susan Gazzero Stacie Venagro Tom Lopatosky Heidi Palmer McNeil Sales Executives Jeffrey Manzo Sandra Pacheco Jim Lombari Jenn Lombari Michael Belsito Joe Gemma Honorary Member John “Big Ange” Manzi

17 Live the Live Food Blog 20-21 Venda Ravioli 24-25 Olneyville NY System 29 Yacht Club Soda 34-35 Local Catch Seafood 38 State the Facts 38 Silly Laws

Barrington, Coventry,

sugar. Bake for and 25 to Help 30 or until golden part to the factnado that Gaulin hisminutes, employees live and Computer brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Cut the strudels into serve. 3-inch thick slices andhow serve with work ina the community they That’s Gaulin 64 How to Become Runner vanilla ice cream sprinkled with cinnamon. Enjoy!!! Insurance is now, and how it’sFacts been since 1961. 105 Dog 67 Philosophies to Live By SocializeEdward Your Puppy As the founder of 106-107 Gaulin Insurance, GronShopInRI 29 68 Spice Up Your neberg lived downtown and walked to work every day, Relationship a practice that was 108 SupportaRI’s Animal undoubtedly factor in his reachShelters ing his 96th birthday this year. Gronneberg’s son71 Wacky Warning Labels in-law, Stephen Gaulin, bought the business in 1983 Finest Wash operations when Gronneberg 115 retired, andCar continued 73 Hometown Success in downtown Cranston, while joining the Chamber of 115 Seen Out @ PBS An Gaulin Insurance Commerce in 1996. Evening Uncorked

S H O P I N RWhen I.COM Stephen Gaulin decided to retire, he sold the L O C AT E D AT 1 5 2 5 M I N E R A L S P R I N G business AV E N UinE ,January N O RT2016 H P RtoOson V I DChris E N Cwho E , Rhad I been ph: 401.270.2832 fax: 401.353.0792 email: ShopInRI@ShopInRI.com working with his dad since 2003. Stephen Gaulin can now enjoy winters as a Florida ‘snowbird’, knowing that

Grand Re-Opening

Photos By: Michael Belsito

Love&Live Rhode Island

A Place to Watch in Westerly

BY: STEFANIA ROMANO

Westerly is seated on the south shore of Rhode Island and a foremost reason we Rhode Islanders have license plates that are labeled with our state’s nickname, “the Ocean State”. The town of Westerly is a quiet residential community in the winter, swelling in the summer to accommodate tourists eager to explore tourist attractions and the local beaches within Narragansett Bay and the Rhode Island Sound. Just over the border from Connecticut, Westerly is conveniently located to the Aquarium at Mystic, as well as Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods resort and casino. Nearby, the picturesque village of Watch Hill features ocean views, ice cream shops, and craft boutiques.

BEACHES, BEACHES, AND MORE BEACHES… Misquamicut is Westerly’s most well-known beach and covers a seven-mile stretch of coast between Watch Hill and Weekapaug. The Misquamicut coast follows Atlantic Avenue, where the majority of Westerly’s coastal businesses are located. The State Beach, which is open to the public, features lower rates for state residents. Misquamicut Town Beach is open only to Westerly residents. Misquamicut is home to most of Westerly’s coastal nightlife, such as Paddy’s Beach Bar, Sandy’s Lighthouse, Andrea Restaurant and the Windjammer Café. The Windjammer Café is the site of a small fun park with amusement rides, water slides, mini-golf and go-carts. The beachfront businesses often offer parking space at a premium rate. Misquamicut staffs lifeguards during the summer for all commercial beachfront areas.

8 ShopInRI

Watch Hill, the site of some of Rhode Island’s most majestic mansions, sits atop a small hill and is the location of the world-famous Ocean House. The Ocean House is known by Rhode Islanders to be synonymous with luxury: the 49-room manor features oceanfront views, an elegant restaurant and a rich history. Watch Hill also forms the base of Napatree Point, a one-and-a-half-mile sand peninsula jutting into the Block Island Sound. Napatree Point features some of Westerly’s quieter beaches, Another notable fact about Watch Hill is that it is home to the Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest continuously operated carousel in the United States. The carousel is located at the entrance to Napatree Point and has been in service since 1745.

Love&Live

A Place to Watch in Westerly

FOOD, ETC. FOR THOUGHT… Close your eyes and imagine relaxing as you enjoy a satisfying meal, and maybe even a few drinks, before, during or after a perfect day at the beach. Now pack your beach bag, don’t forget your sunscreen, and head out to Westerly. The hot summer is around the corner and so many Westerly amenities await you. With too many to mention them all, there are an abundance of choices to be made for a variety of dining experiences in Westerly, both casual and high-end. Some of Westerly’s favorite well-known eateries include, The Cooked Goose, a breakfast and lunch favorite, Paddy’s Beach Club, located on Misquamicut Beach, featuring a kid friendly atmosphere and a variety of American cuisine and seafood delights, Misquamicut Sandwich Co. known for their reasonably priced, fresh gourmet sandwiches, PizzaPlace for yummy pizza and fresh salads, Trattoria Longo Meatballs and Martinis for lovers of traditional, wonderfully made Italian fare, Two Little Fish, a relaxed fish shack by the beach, known for its fresh lobster rolls and fish and chips, Ella’s Fine Food & Drink for Asian-French cuisine, Bridge, offering indoor or outdoor seating and a menu of American and seafood favorites, and Oak Street B&B for light breakfast fare, a popular Sunday brunch, and savory burgers with hand-cut fries.

Rhode Island

FUN ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS TO ENJOY: • Atlantic Beach Park featuring classic park amusements and rides • Water Wizz-a water park with slides • Flying Horse Carousel-ride the country’s oldest wooden historic carousel • Visit the historical mansions. • Shop, shop, shop in the many variety of shops in Watch Hill. • Visit Wilcox Park, a host to concerts, festivals, and other community events throughout the year.

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Golden Beets and Fresh Mozzarella on Sourdough

By Chef Adam Baffoni

Ingredients 2 large golden beets 1 ball Narragansett Creamery fresh mozzarella, sliced into ¼ inch slices 2 handfuls baby arugula 4 thick slices fresh sourdough bread Water, as needed 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar Lemon juice, as needed Salt and pepper, to taste Olive oil, as needed

In the spring, there’s nothing I love more than hiking out to find the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic. Whether it’s a cliff lookout or a grassy meadow, there’s something about eating lunch outside in the sun that just can’t be replicated, and a good picnic requires a great sandwich. A great sandwich starts with the bread, and my bread of choice for this one is sourdough, which has a thick, crunchy crust and chewy interior. There are dozens of amazing bakeries in Rhode Island that make fantastic sourdough bread, so there’s bound to be an incredible sourdough within ten minutes of you. When preparing any sandwich, there are two key flavors that are essential: salt and acidity. Because this sandwich doesn’t have any naturally salty ingredients, it’s important to season everything well. It will make the difference between a sandwich that’s good, and one that is amazing. This method of cooking and peeling beets is incredibly easy and using golden beets won’t make a mess and stain everything, unlike their purple counterpart. Preparation

Preheat an oven to 375. Place the beets in an oven-safe pan with ½ inch of water and the apple cider vinegar. Cover the beets and bake until they can easily be pierced with a fork. As soon as the beets are cool enough to handle, rub them vigorously in a kitchen towel to easily remove the skin. Slice the beets and lay out the slices on a cutting board. Season the beets with salt, pepper and olive oil. In a large bowl, toss the arugula with salt and enough lemon juice to coat all of the leaves. Once the beets have cooled, arrange the beets, mozzarella and arugula on the bread and serve, or package to take on a picnic. ShopInRI 11

By Kelly Paterson It’s not an easy task to keep a business running for 40 years, especially a restaurant business, but Oki Japanese Steakhouse, located at 1270 Mineral Spring Avenue in North Providence has pretty much managed to do just that. Oki’s opened back in 1976; at the time the original owner Yukio Oki had decided to try out a hibachi style restaurant, which was be the first of its kind in RI. The restaurant was a huge hit, and was consistently busy. As years passed, other hibachi style restaurants would pop up throughout the state, but they never achieved the status that Oki‘s did. Oki had a partner involved in running the restaurant, but sadly their relationship dissolved which led to its closing, with Oki retiring. About two years ago, Oki came out of his brief retirement and reopened the restaurant. Husband and wife team Salvatore and Marie Esposito, along with their two children Michael and Donna, joined up with Oki as partners. However, Oki was getting older and decided to retire just a few months ago so he could spend more time with his family. Now that the ball was in the Esposito family court, they were looking to re-brand the name, but also wanted to stay true to what Oki had worked so hard on for so long. After Oki’s departure, they took into consideration what many of their customers’ complaints had been, most of them directed at the lighting quality in the building being far too dark. So they had state of the art lighting installed to completely brighten the place up. The Espositos were also interested in bringing a new image to the restaurant so they didn’t stop with the lighting, but instead renovated the entire place. Now they have 16 new hibachi ta12 ShopInRI

bles, each one seats 8 per table. They also opened up the space, almost doubling it in size and giving them more room. Next, they removed the old bar and reconstructed a new one. So as soon as you walk in, you are greeted by a beautiful, modern wrap around style bar, 18-20 feet long. Plus there is a nice

big screen television which is the focal point of that area. Their lounge also features a new wooden floor with more beautiful lighting. Oki’s is also under new management. General Manager Vincent Martino speaks highly about the lounge, stating that it is truly ideal for any kind of cocktail reception or fundraiser. He says they have been aggressively seeking receptions and gathering for the lounge. It is a perfect venue to hold them. It can easily accommodate up to 200 people. Martino also talks about how they are currently working on featuring a table-side menu that serves entrées for those who want something other than hibachi. The entrées would be served in their lounge area, which at the moment serves appetizers, soups, salads and sushi. However, when it comes to the menu items they do serve and what is popular, Martino notes that both their hibachi filet strip and lobster strip are fa-

vorites among their customers. While most people do come to Oki for the hibachi, a lot of people are also starting to notice that they also serve a plethora of sushi. There are well over 30 different selections from which to choose. Martino states, “Everyone thinks of Oki’s as hibachi; they don’t realize that our sushi lounge area and sushi menu are topnotch.” A primary reason why Oki’s has been doing so well for so long is attributed to their staff. Vincent thinks the experience in the kitchen is what has helped their business stay afloat. Their head chef has been with the company for about 28 years, and along with his assistants, they have a combined 150 years of hibachi cooking experience. Between their techniques and keeping it authentic, with some staff members, including their sushi chef hailing right from Japan, these are the types of things that definitely aid them with being a highly accomplished restaurant. Martino finds his patrons are looking

for ambiance and quality food that is reasonably priced, and he feels Oki’s delivers in all those areas. Hibachi is definitely an experience, and Vincent sees plenty of large groups come through Oki’s to be a part of it. It could be families or a bunch of kids coming in for a birthday party. They also have a huge turn out on Wednesdays which is ladies’ night, with all hibachi being half price. On Friday nights, they feature live music to add something different to the mix. And since Mother’s Day and graduations are coming up, they have been putting the word out that their upscale lounge is available for all events, not to mention it being a totally different and unique way to celebrate any occasion. Oki’s has been trying to work on customizing people’s experiences so they can leave with a smile on their face and will want to return soon. So make sure to check them out at okisback.com or call them at 401-728-7970. ShopInRI 13

Creamy Dijon Potato Salad Since the weather is changing, so are our food choices, with less soups and hearty dishes, and more cold and lighter fare. Sometimes a good side dish is the best part of a meal. Here is a tangy, yet sweet potato salad recipe that is loaded with flavor. Pickles are a great way to compliment any potato salad, and give it just a little something extra. I chose bread and butter pickles, because they paired up nicely with the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise based dressing. It also makes enough to serve at any party or cookout, perfect for the spring.

Ingredients 3 lbs. of russet potatoes (cut small) 3 stalks of celery (chopped into small pieces) 1 medium onion (diced) By Kelly Paterson 6 hardboiled eggs (cut into small pieces) Half a jar of bread and butter pickles (chopped into small pieces) Half an English cucumber (chopped) 1 tbsp. salt 3 tbsp. Gulden’s mustard 2 tbsp. pickle juice 1 cup of mayonnaise (more if needed) 2-3 tsp. dried parsley for garnishing

Directions Take a pot and boil some water. Once the water is boiling, place the potatoes in and boil for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Once they are cooked, drain the potatoes and place in a large bowl. Next, mix in chopped celery, onion, eggs, pickles and cucumber. To avoid mashing the ingredients, do not over mix. In another bowl, mix salt, mustard, pickle juice, and mayonnaise. Add this to the potato mixture and incorporate well. Refrigerate for a few hours and serve. Enjoy!

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ALSACE APPLE STRUDEL WITH CINNAMON ICE CREAM

Granny Smith apples are used in this recipe because they stay crisp and tart, and delectable when topped off with vanilla ice cream sprinkled with cinnamon. The contrast between the flakiness of the dough and the smoothness of the ice cream and apples is unbeatable. This dish is delightful for both dessert or if you want to add it as a treat to your May breakfast.

Ingredients:

- 4 tbsp. unsalted butter - 3 tsp. ground cinnamon - Vanilla ice cream - 6 Granny Smith apples, - ¼ tsp. freshly grated nutmeg peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch dice - 8 sheets thawed frozen phyllo dough - ½ cup plus 2 tbsp. sugar - 1 cup turbinado sugar - ½ cup golden raisins - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted, melted butter In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apples and stir until the apples are heated through, about 5 minutes. Stir in the granulated sugar, raisins, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and the nutmeg. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface with the long side facing you. Brush the sheet with the melted butter, then sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of turbinado sugar. Repeat these steps with 3 more sheets of phyllo, creating a stack. Spoon half of the apple filling on the bottom third of the stacked phyllo facing you and roll the phyllo around the filling into a log. Repeat to make another log. Place the strudels on the prepared sheets and brush the tops of each with melted butter. Sprinkle each strudel with turbinado sugar. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Cut the strudels into 3-inch thick slices and serve with vanilla ice cream sprinkled with cinnamon. Enjoy!!!

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Ingredients 7 lbs. beef brisket 1 tbsp. fennel seed, toasted & cooled 5 three-inch strips of bacon, cooked & cooled 2 tbsp. oregano 2 tbsp. parsley 2 tsp. basil

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Notes from the Cooker, Traveler, Master Gardener and Serious Sipper of Creative Cocktails

by Al Milukas

SHRIMP AND ASPARAGUS SALAD WITH QUINOA

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Ingredients: 1 1/3 cup dry quinoa (or 1 cup basmati rice) Chicken stock Juice of 1 lemon 2 lbs. wild-caught American shrimp, peeled and de-veined (16 to 18 count) 1 cup of asparagus stalks, cut into 1" lengths 1/2 cup minced scallions, green part only 1 cup chopped fresh dill 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 1 English cucumber, peeled, seeded and medium-diced 1/4 cup red onion, small diced 1/2 cup seeded and chopped tomatoes 12 oz. good feta cheese, crumbled Extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper

Asparagus season has begun here in Southern New England! This is a delicious salad that you can serve warm or cool, and it can be prepared, the day before you serve it. Cover it in plastic, and keep it in the fridge. Then, when your guests arrive, let it warm to room temperature. Taste for seasoning before serving. Prepare the quinoa (or rice) according to the package directions, using chicken stock, instead of water. Once the rice is cooked, place it in a large bowl. Place the shrimp on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and spread out in a single layer. Roast for 5 to 6 minutes in a pre-heated 350 degree oven, until the shrimp are cooked through. Don't overcook! Add the shrimp to the quinoa, then add the lemon juice, scallions, dill, parsley, cucumber, onion, tomatoes, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Add the feta and stir carefully. Set aside at room temperature for 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.

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Cinco De Mayo Headquarters

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Venda Ravioli –

Italy’s 21st Region in Providence By: Nicholas Vincelette

Alan Costantino is of the mindset that today’s culinary clientele are inclined to prefer experiences as opposed to just material possessions. If this describes you, and your idea of a good time is immersing yourself in Italian food, ambiances, and people, but do not have the extra few thousand dollars lying around to visit Cinque Terre this year, fret not. Leave your passport at home and let Costantino’s Venda Ravioli be your destination as winter’s chill recedes into spring’s balmy breezes. Currently located on DePasquale Plaza atop Providence’s Federal Hill, this emporium of all things Italian is actually in its fourth location since the time Costantino originally purchased the business in 1972. “I had no idea what I was doing,” he recalls of that time 44 years ago. “I was working for a car dealership at the time when my mother happened to mention it was for sale and might be worth looking into. So I did, and went into the pasta business with no experience.” The operation Costantino initially bought was only a small storefront making 4 types of pasta (egg noodles, cavatelli, manicotti, 20 ShopInRI

and cheese-filled ravioli) to serve the neighborhood’s primarily Italian clientele. “In 1972, there were only 4 pastas being made, now we have 150 different kinds,” he proudly cites with a subtle raise of the eyebrows to emphasize how much Venda has changed to accommodate customers’ increasingly cosmopolitan palates.

In the beginning, the novice pasta maker would travel personally by car to different businesses in order to market his product. Eventually, his determination and confidence in his pasta’s quality rewarded him with wholesale and restaurant clients, and successful bids on State contracts to

supply agency cafeterias. He is quick to point out that while business was growing rapidly, for many months any revenue that came in went toward paying bills. Paying a nod to the barebones operation he once ran and the stresses associated, Costantino recalled the time he and his staff was asked to fulfill a State bid of 200 cases of stuffed shells in day’s window of time. “I of course said ‘Yes we could do it,’ not thinking at the time of how or how long it would take. Usually we would fill each shell by hand, but for that amount it would never get done on time.” To solve his conchiglie conundrum, Costantino thought to purchase a bunch of the old Cool-Whip accordion squeeze containers so he and his staff could fill them with ricotta and then inject the contents into the shells. “So there we all were, filling shells with Cool-Whip containers! It looked crazy, but we got it done.” Costantino’s stuffed shell episode serves as an example of the improvisational acumen he commands over Venda, its separate wholesale operation across

Atwells Avenue, and more formal restaurant, Venda Bar & Ristorante, on the other side of the fountain on DePasquale Square. All locations are operated by a mix of older Italianborn and trained chefs and food artisans and their younger contemporaries; many of whom are freshly out of culinary school. The purpose, he explains, is to foster an environment of collaboration and learning. “I have people like Sal (formerly of La Campagnola Café) who’s been with me from the beginning, and after gaining his trust he trained Anthony who cooks at the restaurant. They’re able to learn from one another. Sal is able to teach the traditional foundations you need for consistent quality-the things he brought with him from Italy. Without those, your product suffers. Everything builds upon that.” Cognizant of the consumer attention in recent years to purchase locally sourced items, Costantino strives to make sure Venda represents the best Rhode Island farms and producers have to offer, but at the end of the day, his purpose is to be Italy’s 21st region, or as he likes to say, “its umbilical cord.” His anecdote is made inherently clear by the hundreds of imports carried. “When you think of it, we have four of the greatest foods in the world right here: balsamic vinegar di Modena, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Parma prosciutto, and white truffles,” he states. “Those are things that you just cannot locally produce.” From the standbys of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, espressos, sweets, and chocolates to the more exotic fare like bottarga, white Alba truffles, and region specific cheeses, Venda carries them. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had people come up to me here and say they just got back from a trip to Italy and Venda was their first stop upon arriving back,” he proudly proclaims. “They come here because they don’t want their trip to end. They’ll come in and ask the staff for things they may have tried there for the first time and want to know if we have ever heard of it.” Observing the interactions between staff and customers invokes a sense of familiarity. If you’re unsure of how or when to use certain ingredients, do not be timid to ask as they are happy to assist. You may notice there is no number system. The purpose, Constantino explains, is to foster a more conversational approach. “We want people to talk with one another, just like a family.” The term ‘family’ is dear to Costantino. He does not hide his gratitude for the work his relatives have done and continue to do for the business. He frequently notes in conversation how instrumental his daughter, Alicia, and son, Michael is in making the operation run smoothly, especially during the busy Christmas and Easter seasons. “Thank God for them because they can handle it. I could go on vacation tomorrow and have no worries that everything will be fine.” So whether you are frequenting Venda this spring and summer on your way home from work for some prepared dinner foods, making a special trip for their fresh Swiss chard or burratafilled ravioli and hard to find imported specialties, catering orders, or simply enjoying an espresso or glass of wine to live music on their beautifully maintained plaza, prepare to get swept up in the sirocco of Italian experience Venda provides. And if you ate one too many fritelle di fiori di zucca and need some Brioschi, don’t worry. They carry that too. ShopInRI 21

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The Official Soda of Rhode Island BY ADAM HOGUE

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Captain Richard Cook (center) with his crew at a local farmers’ market.

The Local Catch

Fresh, Sustainable Seafood Captain Richard Cook has been fishing commercially for four decades. That might explain why he started a fishing business of his own – the Local Catch – out of Galilee five years ago. Forty years in, Cook knows there are many benefits of fresh and local seafood. The Local Catch, which he runs with his wife, Ann, is all about being local, sustainable and selling quality fresh fish – many caught on his own boat, the F/V Sandra Lynn. “People really appreciate their local seafood, especially here in Rhode Island,” Cook said. “We really have an advantage as Rhode Islanders: we can buy local seafood, whether it’s out of Point Judith, Block Island, Stonington – the gist is that it’s all from local waters.” During the summer, the Local Catch sells fish at roughly 10 to 15 different farmers' markets across the state. In the winter months, they sell at four indoor farmers' markets in the area. 34 ShopInRI

by Brooke Constance White photos by Soozie Sundlun

Although they have just a small processing facility rather than a retail facility, Cook said going to the farmers' markets is like having miniature fish stores all over – without the overhead.

It is important to buy local because it keeps Rhode Island’s seafood here in Rhode Island and builds nearby demand, which is much better economically for local fishermen, he said.

“By getting local seafood, you’re reducing what I like to call your carbon ‘finprint.’ It’s great when people can get salmon from Alaska, but what was the cost of getting it here?” Cook said.

Aside from their presence at farmers' markets throughout the state, the Local Catch also offers a Community-Supported Fishery (CSF) program similar to a CommunitySupported Agriculture program. The program works as a debit system where a person can purchase a half-share ($144) or a whole share ($288) and then use the money whenever they want and at whatever pace they would like. Once the money is spent, they can “reload” their account. Each participant also receives a 10 percent spending bonus. The money does not expire and can be used to purchase fish from any of the farmers' markets the Local Catch attends.

“If you get fresh and local seafood from us, we can always tell you the port that it came into and we can often tell you the boat, the captain, the mate and where exactly the fish came from.” “Less than two percent of the imported fish that come into the country are tested,” he continued, “and most people have no idea where their fish came from or how many chemicals might be in it.”

Each year, the Local Catch sells tens of thousands pounds of fish to both local customers and customers all over the country.

The fresh fish they sell depends on what is in season – for example, they do not sell fresh tuna or swordfish in January because there are not any in local waters. Some of the most popular fish include black sea bass, haddock, squid (for a truly Rhode Island plate of the state's official appetizer, calamari) and sea scallops. The Local Catch also sells a variety of locally smoked fish and a surprisingly popular species: scup. “Recently, people have really been into scup as it’s very good for cooking,” Cook said. “It’s also a very sustainable fish to catch so we can sell quite a bit of it.” The Local Catch sends out a weekly newsletter to inform customers on what is available for that week. The company also accepts pre-orders. For details on how to get their newsletter with each week’s Local Catch, the locations of the farmers' markets they attend or information on shipping, visit TheLocalCatch.com.

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FIRE UP YOUR GRILL WITH QUALITY CUTS! Feel good that you’re grilling and serving only the best cuts of meat this spring and summer. Armando’s always puts quality and service first. Our meats are fresh products of the USA: USDA Grade A

beef, chicken and pork, as well as seafood, is always available and cut by the best butchers in the industry at both Armando & Sons locations. Get just the cuts you want at a price you can afford - visit Armando’s today.

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STATE THE FACTS...

1 out of every 8 Americans have been employed by McDonald’s some point. The currentat50-star American flag was designed by a 17-year-old as a school project in 1958. He got a B-. Apple has more money than the U.S. Treasury. There is enough water in Lake Superior to cover the enIn Montana, cows out number people 3America to 1. in one foot tire landmass of North and South of liquid. Though most Americans speak English, we have no official national language. The largest air force in the world is the US Air Force. The world’s second-largest air force is the U.S. Navy and Medical Corps errors are the 6th leading cause of death in the Marine combined. US. Three of the world’s five oldest rivers flow in the UnitVirginia hasThe birthed more than any state. ed States: New, thepresidents Susquehanna, andother the French Broad Rivers are each hundreds of millions of years old. 27% of Americans don’t believe we landed on the moon. Statistically, the deadliest job in America is … If you have $10 in your and no debt, president. Of the 44pocket men who’ve held you the are post, four wealthier 25% of Americans. have beenthan assassinated in office—a rate of roughly 9 percent (or about one in ten) killed on the job. 100 acres of pizza are served in the US every day. The only US president to own a patent and a saloon: Americans Lincoln. spend roughly yearswas of their at each Abraham His 4.4 patent for alife device to oflift their jobs. boats over sandbars. His saloon was a miserable failure. The estimated Library of Congress an be archive of every An one in tenisofkeeping us could a blood relative to tweetofever one thetweeted. original 102 pilgrims who arrived aboard the Mayflower in 1620. 22 million chickens are consumed in the US every day. According to the World Giving Index, Americans are 1 outmost everylikely 3 Americans obese. the people inisthe world to help a stranger. The White Horse Tavern Rhode Island built in 1673 The day congress votedinAmericans freewas from British rule andJuly is the oldest operating in theJohn United States. put is 2, 1776. July 4 istavern just when Hancock the first signature on the Declaration of Independence to spread the word. 38 ShopInRI

Silly Laws

In Alabama, you may not have an ice cream cone in your back pocket at any time. In Alaska, a Moose may not be viewed from an airplane. In Arkansas, dogs may not bark after 6 PM. In California, no vehicle without a driver may exceed 60 miles per hour. In Connecticut, it is unlawful to walk backwards after sunset. In Georgia, members of the state assembly cannot be ticketed for speeding while the state assembly is in session. In Idaho, a person may not be seen in public without a smile on their face. In Iowa, a man with a moustache may never kiss a woman in public. In Kansas, pedestrians crossing the highways at night must wear tail lights. In Kentucky, a woman may not buy a hat without her husband’s permission.

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Breaking News: Visit ShopInRI.com to view our Monthly Issues Today! 42 ShopInRI

Rhode IslandFEUD Feud... RHODE ISLAND

Joe-Wack-Mac RIThe FeudFamous Chairman the Board JoeofWack-Mac

Question Is: of the Board” “RI Feud Chairman

What is your favorite city to Is: visit in Florida? Question -100 Rode Islander’s Surveyed... What is the Easiest Way to Improve - Top 5 Answers on the Board... the Economy? Survey Says:

-100 Rhode Islander’s Surveyed... 1. Orlando.........................................................25% 2. Ft. Lauderdale...............................................23% -Top 5 Answers on the Board... 3. Miami............................................................22% -Survey Says: 4. Naples............................................................20% 1. Lower Gas Prices............................32% 5. Boca Raton....................................................10% 2. Create Jobs...................................31% Question Is: 3. Lower What isTaxes.................................17% your favorite island on the East Coast? Rode Islander’s Surveyed... 4. Lower-100 Education Cost......................14% - Topof 5 Answers on the Board... 5. Move Out the Country...................6% Survey Says:Is: Question

1. Block Island, RI.............................................31% What is Wrong With The Red Sox? 2. Martha’s Vineyard, MA.................................23% -100 Rhode Islander’s Surveyed... 3. Nantucket, MA..............................................22% 4. Hilton Head Island, SC..................................21% -Top 5 Answers on the Board... 5. Outer Banks Islands, NC.................................3%

-Survey Says: Question Is 1. Management................................29% Who has the best ice cream in RI? 2. Pitching...................................... 22% -100 Rode Islander’s Surveyed... 3. Hitting.......................................18% - Top 4 Answers on the Board... Survey Says: 4. Fielding.......................................17% 1. Friendlys.......................................................35% 5. Too Much Beer & Fried Chicken........14% 2. Cool Licks, North Providence.......................25% Question Is: 3. Brickleys Ice Cream, Wakefield....................22% You Like About the Winter? 4.What VanillaDo Bean, Matunuck...............................18%

-100 Rhode Islander’s Surveyed... -Top 4 Answers on the Board...

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The Classic Man Barbershop By Kara Caldarone

George A. Tillett is the proud owner of The Classic Man Barbershop located at 2216 Broad Street, Cranston, RI. Want an old school cut and shave? Go to The Classic Man Barbershop. Want to see a self-taught man realize the American dream in the state of economic challenging times? Go to The Classic Man Barbershop. “I’m a self-taught barber who was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, and started barbering when I was 12-years-old,” says George Tillett. Lucky for him, his family and friends were willing to let him “practice” on their hair. It was a natural fit for Tillett, although he had no formal training and no one to mentor him. In high school, Tillett was getting more confident as a barber; his classmates were noticing his fresh cuts and shaves, and wanted him to do the same for them. So he opened his first barbershop in his mother’s basement with a $50 chair, razors, and a pair of scissors. At age 18, he was becoming a success even before finishing school. After graduating from Classical High School, from age 18 to 25, Tillett’s focus was on mastering his techniques. A lack of education and training never deterred Tillett from following his dream of opening up a barbershop in RI; it only made him more determine to succeed.

teaching at Paul Mitchell and Empire Beauty School in 2014. He was making a name for himself and was ready to venture out on his own. “It was my girlfriend, Mikayla, who found this space [in Pawtuxet Village] when she saw an ad on Craigslist,” says Tillett. “I didn’t tell George that I made an appointment for him to look at the space. We got in the car and headed to the Village,” says Mikayla. When Tillett saw the space, he envisioned his barbershop nestled in a community where neighbors are friends. On February 28, 2016, he realized his dream. “I feel fortunate to be part of a welcoming community. To show my gratitude, I had an outdoor celebration when I opened my doors. It was attended by family, friends, and people passing by in my new community. It was the best feeling being surrounded by so much support and love,” says Tillett. Tillett’s ambition is not only to be a success, but also to give back more in the community. He provides haircuts for the homeless, underprivileged children, and others with hardships and in need of haircuts. He donates clothes, back-to-school bags filled with supplies, toys at Christmastime, and hats, gloves, and jackets before winter.

“From clips to scissor cuts, I was progressing in my calling, barbering in Cranston and later in Providence at different shops,” says Tillett. It was a learning experience for him to work alongside experienced barbers and grow his customer base at the same time. He was becoming more and more motivated to open his own shop. The seed was planted and growth was just around the corner.

deserves to feel good about themselves. I am honored to provide haircuts and hot shaves to people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it. A new look for a new beginning,” saysTillett.

Tillett was not only becoming a master barber, he started

Visit theclassicmanri.com for further information.

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“Everyone

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HISTORIC PAWTUXET VILLAGE Cranston, RI

Saturday, May 28 2016, 10:00 to 5:00 Sunday, May 29 2016, 10:00 to 5:00 Monday, May 30 2016, 10:00 to 4:30 Narragansett Parkway Historic Pawtuxet Village | Warwick, RI 02888

Since 1965, the Gaspee Days Committee has committed to providing the community with a fun, free, and family-friendly Arts & Crafts Festival that offers its neighbors, visitors, and friends an opportunity to enjoy a day outside shopping, eating, and spending time with friends. Today, the Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival brings together over 100 fine artisans as well as a number of community groups and non-profits from which patrons may purchase one-ofa-kind items that they may only find on this one weekend each year. Over the course of three days, the food court is full of craft fair eats and goodies and Pawtuxet Park fills with music being performed live by our hand-picked bands and performers. Children enjoy the many amusements and games available in the park as well. Over 50,000 people will walk up and down Narragansett Parkway on Memorial Day Weekend, enjoying the atmosphere of this long-time Warwick tradition.

Gaspee Days Annual Block Party Saturday May 28th, 2016 from 6 to 11 pm

Aspray Boat House & Patio, Pawtuxet Park, Warwick, RI o Entry fee $5.oo per person o Come on in and enjoy the beer, music, and neighborhood camaraderie. o Music by NEIL AND THE VIPERS

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Burning of the Gaspee Sunday, June 12th, 2016 at 4 pm

Pawtuxet Park Cove, Narragansett Parkway, Warwick

• Ending the Gaspee Days Festivities, the symbolic burning of the ship that sparked the American Revolution.

HMS Gaspee and her hated commander, Lt. William Dudingston, were sent by King George III to Rhode Island waters in March of 1772, to enforce the trade laws and prevent smuggling. They made no friends amongst the colonists in harassing shipping and delaying, often unjustly, ships that had properly passed custom inspection in Newport. The latter was the case on June 9, 1772, when the packet sloop Hannah left Newport for Providence. When the Gaspee gave chase, Hannah’s Captain Lindsey, deliberately lured her across the shallows off Namquid Point, (now Gaspee Point) and left the British ship hard aground on a sandbar, unable to move until the flood tide of the following day. Upon arrival in Providence, Captain Lindsey reported the event to John Brown, one of the most prominent and respected merchants in Rhode Island, who sent out a town crier inviting all interested parties to meet at Sabin’s Tavern to plan the Gaspee’s destruction. Under the leadership of Abraham Whipple, the small band of patriots rowed eight longboats with muffled oars to the stranded ship. Lt. Dudingston and his crew were taken prisoner and removed from Pawtuxet Village. Near daylight on June 10th, the Rhode Islanders set fire to the Gaspee, burning her to the waterline, whereupon her powder magazine exploded. Efforts of the Crown to learn the names of the culprits were unsuccessful, although a sizable reward had been offered. Public sentiment was in accord with the venture; this spirit of unity soon spread to the other colonies with the formation of the Committees of Correspondence to prevent further threats. It was but a short step from here, to the First Continental Congress and eventually the Declaration of Independence. ShopInRI 47

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Virtu Art Celebrates 20 Years In Style! Lisa Konicki

The Beauty Within (TBW) Success Stories Our TBW (The Beauty Within) model Elizabeth joined our agency in June 2014 with a first time photo shoot by her agent Pamela Masucii, in Roger William Park. Elizabeth’s mom was with her and was asking Pamela if Elizabeth has what it takes to be a model. At the time, Elizabeth was 16 years of age and 5’9.5 ft. tall. Pamela replied, “ I’m pretty sure she does.” Working with The Beauty Within the entire following year with bridal magazines, fashion shows and catalog shoots, Elizabeth was a favorite among our clients. After one year, Pamela Masucci convinced her New York scout that Elizabeth was worth a viewing. Pamela and her mom took a train to NYC with an another TBW Model, Sydney Brake, another 16 year old at 5’10” tall.

The 20th annual Virtu Art Festival will take place Memorial Day weekend, May 28 and 29 in Westerly’s beautiful Wilcox Park. This cost-free event is quite an extravaganza, with live entertainment, more than 150 artists, and a “Creation Station” with children’s activities. This year is even more special as a yarn bombing tree exhibit takes place. This is NOT your grandmother’s knitting project! Envision colorful designs of yarn that embrace the curved branches and stumps of beautiful trees and lamp posts. The display is an unusual and magnificent spectacle, reminiscent of something from a Dr. Seuss book. A new attraction this year will be four enormous butterfly sculptures with a four foot wing span. These fabulous aluminum garden art creations are being painted by local artists and will be on display all weekend. Two sculptures are sponsored already, and two will be available for sale. Throughout historic downtown, there will also be a series of hand painted birdhouses on exhibit as part of a “bird house stroll”. Truly, the 20th anniversary of Virtu Art Festival offers something for everyone. Please attend and explore Westerly’s charming and historic downtown with over 30 eclectic shops and restaurants. Oceanchamber.org

We met the NY scout (PMV Models) at a coffee shop who touched up the girls with under eye concealer and provided suggestions to improve their interviewing skills, which is most important when you meet these very important people. We then proceeded over to the agencies, first Wilhelmina, and then Elite. As the mother agency (TBW Models) to Elizabeth, my job is to ensure whichever agency sounded the most excited to work with Elizabeth should be the one we all agreed upon and chose together. This was NY Elite. They had Elizabeth’s best interest at heart, and Sydney Brake’s, as well. Both signed with Elite. Sydney was flown over to Italy to work for Jill Sanders in Italy’s Fashion Week, in October. Since, she has been traveling back and forth to NYC castings, and her career is proving to become very successful. Since signing with Elite, Elizabeth has been featured in Seventeen Magazine twice, December issue and winter/ spring 2016 prom issue. She has also shot part one of an Abercrombie & Fitch project in LA and will be shooting the second part in April 2016, in California. It seems that her modeling career has just begun on its road to stardom!!! Donna Sousa MAKEOVER ARTISTRY located at “The Salons at RGE”..1776 Bald Hill Road Warwick RI 02885..4014407503 makeoverartistry.com MAKEOVER ARTISTRY on Facebook and Donna Sousa page, instagram, Wedding Wire , The Knot Winners of “The Hall of Fame Award” ShopInRI 51

Owners Joe Caron and Diane Berube-Catanzaro

caron jewelers Celebrating 2nd Anniversary b y n e k o c ata n z a r o

Caron Jewelers celebrated its 2nd Anniversary this April, but its Bristolian history extends well beyond those two years. A fixture at 473 Hope Street for nearly half a century, Bert and Dot Caron first opened the store in 1956. Their oldest son Joe now runs the store, who at an early age learned the inner workings of running the family business, “My father taught me to repair watches and solder silver jewelry. I even opened my own electric shaver repair business in the back of the store when I was twelve,” Joe reminisced. Though the name remains the same, the store has undergone 52 ShopInRI

many transformations. Now an iconic window front on Hope Street, the store’s colorful and whimsical displays, created by Joe’s wife Diane, are eye candy for jewelry lovers and all passersby. The renovated interior presents an inviting, modern ambience while still maintaining much of the buildings historic accents. The charming layout invites customers to browse its eyecatching casements with each display showcasing an eclectic selection of classic and modern jewelry designs. Current highend lines include: Nicole Barr, Marika, British designer Jonathan Lynne Ltd., precious natural

stone designs from The Rare Earth Mining Company, luxury men and women’s watches from Citizen, vintage estate jewelry, and Doron Paloma’s Dove collection that has been touted by celebrities on the red carpet. “It’s not your grandmother’s jewelry store anymore, but she still shops here,” explained Joe, “We have fashions and designs for all tastes and age groups.” Caron Jewelers also carries a selection of handcrafted pottery from Three Wheel Studios in Providence, artist etchings from Diane, as well as its very own signature collection of Mt. Hope

Jewelry. “My parents store was more traditional, whereas we have moved towards custom design work and more exclusive inventory. We are expanding our bridal and fine jewelry fabrication and enjoy working with couples on creating something that is not only one-of-a-kind, but will last a lifetime,” explained Joe. Though reinventing the family business was always in the back of Joe’s mind, he is thankful with how all the pieces fell into place. Both Joe and Diane are appreciative of the warm welcome (and welcome back) they have received since reopening, “We love being a part of the Bristol business scene. It is an amazingly diverse community and we enjoy getting to know our customers personally while providing a trust based service.” Joe credits much of his industry experience to his father, and though there are many lessons that Joe learned during his early years at the shop, there is one saying he still carries with him today, “If you don’t know your

jewelry you should know your jeweler.”

definitely

Caron Jewelers will be celebrating its 2nd Anniversary, April 8-10. The weekend-long celebration will feature in-store sales, a raffle, and refreshments for participating customers and visitors. Other major events include two trunk shows with Rare Earth Mining in June and December, as well as participating in the British Car Festival. For more information follow Caron Jewelers on Facebook or visit BristolJewelryDesigner. com. ShopInRI 53

Wickford Village May 2016

Photo By: Susan Smith May in Wickford is the month for Mother’s Day, mortarboards, and Memorial Day! May is when we begin to really enjoy being outside again and everything is green and alive. Events are planned and our calendars start to fill up with activities. Why does it seem we have nothing to do all winter and then are suddenly booked solid once the weather warms up? Speaking of events, here are the goings on around.

Mother’s Day is May 9th There are so many great shops in Wickford to find unique gifts for mom. Or come as a family and spend Mother’s Day in the village, and treat mom to lunch or dinner. No mom should be washing dishes on Mother’s Day!

Graduation Season Begins College graduation celebrates the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of new adventures. What an exciting time! We love being a part of the milestones in the lives of our customers and friends. Whether it’s a gift given, a meal eaten together, flowers received, or a day spent together, Wickford Village has become part of so many special memories!

Memorial Day Parade- May 30th -10am The commemoration of Memorial Day in Wickford begins at 9am on Monday, May 30th with the wreath laying ceremony at the Civil War Memorial, on the grounds of the town hall and at the memorials at nearby Veterans Memorial Park. Parade marchers will begin to form at 9am at Wilson Park and the parade will start at 10am. The parade route begins at Wilson Park and follows West Main Street east to Brown Street through Wickford Village, then right on Phillips Street and onto Tower Hill Road (Rte. 1 south) to the Grand Army of the Republic Memorial on the grounds of Elm Grove Cemetery. Here is where concluding ceremonies are expected to begin at 11am. Come line the streets in honor of those who have died in service of the United States of America, and bring your flags to wave in support of the marchers.

-The Wickford Village Association Follow us on Facebook at ILoveWickfordVillage for more news and events. 54 ShopInRI

Your Personal Color Chart: What are Your Colors?

By Christine Gonsalves Hi folks. I hope this article finds you prosperous and in good health, but mostly in good health! In this month’s article, I would like to talk about how to know which hair color is perfect for you. For instance, are you a spring, summer, fall or a winter type? The answer does not just depend on your ethnicity or your complexion. Knowing your color type is definitely useful. After all, nobody wants to look washed out, pale or older because of an awkward choice in hair color. The following color type descriptions will help you discover the colors and hues, which will not only enhance your hairstyle, but also your face. Colors for the Spring Type Complexion: The skin is light and clear and has a golden-yellow or peach tone. * Many spring types blush easily, and they tend to have freckles. Eye Color: The eyes are light-colored from light blue to green and quite often, golden spots enliven the iris. Hair Color: The hair is usually blonde. However, some spring types may be dark-haired or have red hair. Hair Colors for the Spring Type: Nature puts a golden sheen into the hair of spring types. You should therefore avoid ashen tones and choose warm colors instead. Ideal options are golden blonde, flaxen, honey blonde, golden brown, copper, or strawberry blonde. * Warm light to medium brown tones also work well. * Make sure that the hair color is not too dark. * The dramatic look only suits cool skin types. Colors for the Summer Type

Complexion: The summer type has tender rosy skin with a bluish to violet hue (undertone). Eye Color: The eyes are blue, bluish green, gray-blue or green. *Some summer types also have brown eyes with glints of blue, gray or green. Hair Color: The natural hair color of summer types is blonde or brunette. The ashen base color can sometimes look a little dull. Hair Colors for the Summer Type: Silvery or platinum blonde streaks add dazzling highlights to hair, which needs a little more radiance. * One or two shades darker streaks also create a livelier look. * In case you decide to tint or color your hair, ash blonde, ash brown or platinum blonde are your colors. * Red hair color for summer types should have a bluish hue like Bordeaux or mauve. * You should avoid red hair color with a mahogany, copper or golden blonde tinge because these colors can add years to your face.

Colors for the Winter Type Complexion: The skin may be very light. Sometimes, you may notice the faint greenish hues of blood vessels. In any case, winter skin shows cool bluish undertones. World-wide, wintertype skin is particularly common. Many people of African, Asian and Southern European descent are part of this group. Eye Color: The dark brown, gray, ice-blue or intensely green eye color clearly contrasts with the whites of the eyes. Hair Color: The natural hair color is black to bluish black or dark to medium brown. Hair Colors for the Winter Type: The rich tones of winter-type hair naturally radiate warmth. However, if you want to emphasize your natural hair color, you could enhance it by giving it a bluish-black gloss, or some fantastic highlights! * Aubergine (a dark purple color, like egg plant) and mahogany hair color accentuate dark hair. * Color treatments in your own natural hair color highlight the natural beauty of your hair and add more shine. * If you still want to color your hair

you should use ash tones. * Avoid yellowish golden shades of hair color because they detract from the radiance of your skin. Tip: To help determine your skin type, pull your hair back and drape a white towel around your neck and shoulders. Now look in the mirror. If your skin appears yellowish you have a warm complexion. Cool complexions appear slightly bluish. OOooops, as usual, I’m almost out of room, so again, I hope you stay healthy and prosperous, but mostly healthy, and I’ll be back next month, and remember, “If your hair is not becoming to you, then maybe you should be coming to us” where Classy meets Sassy! -Chrissy Check out our web site at:

chrissyshairsalon.com CHRISSY AND HER STAFF ARE MASTER HAIR COLORISTS! THEY HAVE EARNED DEGREES AND SPECIAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN HAIR COLOR AND DESIGN FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. To schedule an appointment with Chrissy or any of her wonderful staff, CALL Chrissy’s Hair Salon 1330 MINERAL SPRING AVE. NORTH PROVIDENCE, RI 02904 (401) 726-7075

chrissyshairsalon.com

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By Hannah Burke

Disney has a knack for making movies about animals and the wild. The Lion King, Bambi, Dumbo, Lady and The Tramp, and One Hundred and One Dalmatians. Now, Disney has decided to remake all of their animated films as live-action films. One of those includes The Jungle Book, a 1967 animated film. It earned one Oscar for best music and a Grammy. The movie’s basic plot is the story of a young boy named Mowgli that is left in the jungle. He is then adopted by a black panther named Bagheera and a bear named Baloo who try to get him back to civilization, all while being pursued by the evil tiger Shere Khan who tries to kill Mowgli. The movie started with a bang, or more of a rush. Mowgli (Neel Sethi) seems to be being chased by someone, or something. The something catches him and that something was Bagheera (Ben Kingsley), his black panther companion. Mowgli was raised and lived with wolves his entire life, yet he was never truly a wolf. Raksha (Lupita Nyong’o) , his adoptive wolf mother, cares and tends for him as well as the other members of the wolf tribe. After the summer drought, there is so little water that prey and predator must put aside their differences in order to survive. Mowgli travels along with his pack to the watering hole. It’s awkward for Mowgli as a mancub in the jungle, but he manages. In a turn of events, Shere Khan (Idris Elba) arrives and demands that Mowgli leave the jungle, or else. Shere Khan asks how many have to die until he leaves? It makes you wonder, how many will die to protect Mowgli? Mowgli’s tribe has to decide whether or not he should leave or if they should fight for him. Mowgli takes it into his own hands and chooses to leave. Followed by Bagheera, they travel to the man-village to return Mowgli to safety. However, they are ambushed by Shere Khan as they travel through the grasslands. Bagheera and Mowgli are separated, and he is forced to travel alone. Escaping a landslide and traveling to the inner

depths of the jungle, he runs into Kaa (Scarlett Johansson), a slippery (Ha!) snake who takes Mowgli into her clutches and tries to kill him. However, Baloo (Bill Murray), saves him in time. Baloo and Mowgli spend some time together and Mowgli helps Baloo get honey for hibernation (With some injuries in the process). Baloo teaches Mowgli about the Bear Necessities and that life is a slice of cake. The two eventually stumble upon Bagheera and after staying for a while, Baloo learns that Mowgli has to leave. In a surprise attack, Mowgli is abducted by monkeys and taken to King Louie’s (Christopher Walken) temple. He gives Mowgli a deal - that he’ll keep him safe if Mowgli gets the Red Flower for him. Mowgli can’t make the Red Flower (Fire), and a chase ensues. King Louie is eventually defeated. Bagheera and Baloo come to Mowgli’s rescue, but he is conflicted. They tell Mowgli that his wolf tribe leader, Akela (Giancarlo Esposito) is dead because of Shere Khan. In revenge, Mowgli goes to the man-village and steals some Red Flower to exact revenge. But, because of his carelessness, Mowgli sets the jungle aflame and must battle Shere Khan - to the death. Overall, I thought the movie was great. I had never seen the original 1967 Jungle Book but I thought the movie was great. Even if I feel pity for Neel Sethi. Running around, alone, in his underoos. The CGI used for the animals was great. I found myself entranced by Kaa’s eyes or the way Shere Khan and Bagheera fought in a wave of orange and black. The voice actors chosen by Jon Favreau were personally great choices. Idris Elba as Shere Khan was great. His intimidating and powerful voice made the character complete. You might say Scarlett Johansson and think Black Widow, a butt-kicking spy/assassin. When you see Kaa in the movie, you’d think “That’s Scarlett Johansson? That doesn’t sound like her.” Overall I give the movie 5 out of 6 diamonds. Rated PG for blood and jumpscares.

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The Benefits of Sleep by Stacie Venagro 2014 World Miss Fitness America and Miss Fitness Universe

Why is sleep so very important? Not only does it make you feel better, its importance goes way beyond just boosting your mood. Sleep plays an important role in your physical health. Adequate sleep can help in the healing and repairing of your heart and its blood vessels. Here is just a sampling of other benefits: 1. Improved health- Getting a good night sleep is so much more important than you may think. Studies have shown a link between certain the progression of diseases and years of insufficient sleep. 2. Less pain- If you have chronic pain from a recent injury, getting enough sleep will actually make it feel better. 3. Lowers your risk of injury- Sleep may actually keep you safer. Lack of sleep has been linked with some minor and serious accidents, such as car accidents, falls, and many more. 4. Better mood- When you’re getting enough sleep, your mood will be brighter. 5. Weight control- Believe it or not, when you sleep, you burn calories. So if you’re not getting enough sleep, you are not burning as many calories as you could be. 6. Better memory- Studies show that our brain processes, consolidates, and stores memories from the day, and also helps us to think more logically. 7. Stronger immunity- Sufficient sleep acts as a boost to your immune system and when you have a stronger immune system, you don’t get sick as often. So let’s get our sleep in! It’s just as important as any other aspect of our day and may lead to a healthier life! Be sure to check out our new location: 161 Macklin Street Cranston, RI 02920

Stacie Venagro Fitness is now located at 161 Macklin Street in Cranston

photo by Paul Buceta

First class is always FREE! Come try a class today and bring a friend.

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1503 Hartford Ave Johnston, RI 274-2211

How to Become a Runner

Anyone can be a runner. We may not all be built tall and thin, but we also don’t need to win a race. It’s about pushing yourself to YOUR limits. This is my personal story of running.

By Susan Gazerro

At the age of 21 I decided I wanted to run. I had never run before, except for those track relays we had in school. My dad suggested the type of sneakers I should wear, as he was an avid runner when he was younger. I took his advice and bought my first pair of New Balance running sneakers and I was off. My plan was to go the local high school track and run once around (hoping I’d make it once around) I did. I decided I would go every night for the next three nights adding a lap each night until I made it four times around, which would be one mile. It didn’t take long for me to realize this was as much mental as it was physical. If I had it in my mind I was going to do it, I would do it! I decided I would go back every night adding a lap each night until I reached my goal of three miles. I again did it! I continued to run three miles for a few years. I was running three to four times a week. I also learned you have to switch your running shoes every few months or after so many miles. After this routine I decided I wanted to increase my run to five miles. Five became seven. I started running seven miles every weekend. After doing this for a couple of years, a friend suggested I run the ten mile Blessing of the Fleet. I couldn’t say yes but I couldn’t say no. My mind was saying “yes” but my body was saying “no, you can’t make ten miles”. My head won! I figured if I was faithfully running three to five miles three or four times a week and seven on the weekend I would be able to run ten. It was the last Friday in July, 2004 and I was at the starting line of the Blessing of the Fleet. I did not put pressure on myself to run in a certain amount of time; I just wanted to finish it. I heard the gun shot and I was off. Having all those people around you running and all those people on the side watching, gives you an extra burst of adrenaline. I finished in an hour and 20 min., averaging an 8min. mile. I am not a speed runner. I have endurance because my mind has the will, and the will must be stronger than the skill; but again, having all those people around kicked my adrenaline up another notch. This was my fastest run to date and finishing was one of the best feelings of accomplishment. The next week I went back to my routine of three to five miles during the week and seven miles on the weekends. In 2007, I was in a very bad car accident. It would be three years before I could run again, but I was determined. With the help of my dear friend & trainer, the late Will Huntington, I built my speed and endurance sooner than I expected. I had this crazy thought of running a marathon since the doctors weren’t really sure I’d ever run again. When I brought this crazy idea to Will he was determined, more than was I, that I would run a marathon. I kept saying “even if I have to walk some of it, I’ll finish”. Will kept saying, “you are running the whole marathon and not only are you running the whole marathon, you are running it at an 11 to 12 min. pace”. I thought Will was crazy but I kept training, and my mind was getting stronger each day. I was able to talk my friend Chris into running it with me which was great for the weekend “long” runs I had to do. It’s always easier with a partner.

I was definitely scared leading up to marathon day. I think I even cried a couple of nights thinking, what did I get myself into; how can I run 26.2 miles?” Marathon day came and I found myself at the start line. Again, sound of a gun shot and I was off. Will was right, I ran the whole marathon and I ran it in 4 hours and 35min. I was thrilled! I’ve gone on to run two more marathons! Footwear is so important. One of the best stores to buy running shoes is Yorker Shoes, in Johnston. Yorker Shoes not only has one of the best selections of New Balance and Brooks running shoes, they also take the time to properly fit you. The sales consultants will ensure you have the proper running shoe for your needs. Sneakers are not all the same and when you start running, you will quickly learn comfort and support are so important. Our feet are all different as well; so again, having them take the time to fit the proper sneaker to your foot is a step above and beyond, and so important when you want to be a runner. Summary: How to be a runner even if you’re not: START SLOW. DON’T GIVE UP. HAVE THE WILL; THE SKILL WILL COME.

Quotes: “Every morning you have two choices: Stay asleep with your dreams or wake up and chase them.” Wake up, start running, and chase every last dream.

“Strength does not come from physical capacity. Strength comes from indomitable will.” I can’t express this enough. Will is stronger than Skill. One with the most “will,” will always go further than one with skill”.

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You Can’t Lose if You Live By These Philosophies By Julia Romano

Let’s face it, life is not always a bed of roses, and for some; it can be a daily struggle. It seems as though no matter how hard we try, there are always obstacles for us to overcome, troubles for us to resolve, and on and on and on… Here’s where I can help. I wasn’t always as positive as I am now. But I learned as I matured that one day leads to the next and the next, and so on, which brings me to my philosophy. “Life is made up of temporary moments. Many of those moments will be good ones, and others not so good, however; every one of the moments will PASS, and before you know it, we are beyond the moment and the moment now becomes a memory.” Creating memories from the good will bring you peace and will also bring your family closer. It doesn’t take money or even much effort to make lifetime memories. It could be just a simple tradition that you and you family do on a special occasion each year, or you may travel during a certain time to a place that is enjoyable. These kinds of good memories will be everlasting and your children will hold on to them forever.

Some situations are beyond out control and create negative energy. My best friend has taught me so much about life and most things I agree with and have learned from. Her philosophy about life is to “live in the moment”. Living in the moment simply means that if you concentrate on what is happening while it is happening, and avoid being obsessive about the future, you will be more peaceful and less anxious about what may or may not occur. A good example is related to medical tests. It’s human nature to worry about the results of having a medical test. For some, however, the unknown takes over and creates undue stress and anxiety. In most cases, the results of the test will be fine, and your worry was wasteful. Therefore, what I try to do (not always easy) is make each moment as positive as I can and always keep in mind that the worry about what may happen, could actually be what causes us to become sick and may negatively affect our overall health. If you are willing to test these philosophies in your life, you can’t lose.

We all must overcome challenges in order to grow, and even then, the most difficult of challenges will pass. Our part is to survive the challenge and if possible, learn from it. Do not let it become who you are; allow it to help you determine where you want to be. ShopInRI 67

How Men Can Spice Up Their Relationships for Less Than $5 Dollars By Julia Romano

By the 1850s, the greeting card had been transformed from a relatively expensive, handmade and handdelivered gift to a popular and affordable means of personal communication, due largely to advances in printing and mechanization, as well as the 1840 introduction of the postage stamp. The first known published Christmas card appeared in London in 1843, when Sir Henry Cole hired artist John Calcott Horsley to design a holiday card that he could send to his friends and acquaintances.

What woman doesn’t like to hear how her partner really feels about her? Let’s face it, especially for women, it is human nature to want and need to hear about feelings, especially HIS feelings! It seems that some men have a harder time than women when trying to articulate their feelings to their deserving loved one. For those men whom are not quite as expressive as they could be, your message can be bought for less than five dollars. Now, you can go to a greeting card store for any occasion and grab any card that you first see. However, women know! We have a strong tendency to ready each and every word on a card from our partner, right down to its cost. (LOL) Therefore, make sure that the you read the words on the card and that they not only suit the occasion, but also communicate what you are really trying to express to her. There are greeting cards galore that have messages to suit everyone’s needs; make sure that you are making a choice that is appropriate for your personal relationship and puts a smile on the face of your loved one. Sending greeting cards is a tradition that goes back to over 200 years. They were originally sent by the elite and wealthy in the early to mid 1800s. The custom of sending greeting cards can be traced back to the ancient Chinese, who exchanged messages of good will to celebrate the New Year, and to the early Egyptians, who conveyed their greetings on papyrus scrolls. By the early 1400s, handmade paper greeting cards were being exchanged in Europe. The Germans are known to have printed New Year’s greetings from woodcuts as early as 1400, and handmade paper Valentines were being exchanged in various parts of Europe in the early to mid-1400s.

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Although the first known valentine card can be traced back to 1415, it wasn’t until the early 1800s and the Penny Post that they became popular and affordable. Esther Howland, a young woman from Massachusetts, was the first regular publisher of valentines in the United States. She sold her first handmade valentine in 1849, eventually establishing a successful publishing firm specializing in the elaborately decorated cards. So it’s been a long, long time that greeting cards have been used to communicate feelings that are sometimes hard to say out loud. Greeting cards are an obvious success. Choose a card carefully and your partner will have that special warm feeling within her heart. Of course, women also love to receive gifts. Some women expect expensive jewelry, trinkets, or even money. However, most women will be satisfied with something chosen by you that proves you put forth an effort to make it special, and to show that you know her better than anyone else. And then by topping it off with that special card, with those words that only you and she will understand, will strengthen that bond that holds your love together! Lastly, keep it going! Don’t always wait for an occasion to send a card. Don’t get me wrong; you don’t want to send a card every week or even every month-you want to keep it special. But it is strongly recommended that you do not forget the most important occasions, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, anniversaries, Easter, and then on those few occasions throughout the year when you feel as though she needs to hear that she is appreciated and loved. And if you have had a spat, or want to apologize for annoying her, a card may help to lessen her anger. So for less than $5.00, you can accomplish so much for spicing up the quality of your relationship; especially if you are not exactly the best at verbally communicating your feelings to her.

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Wacky Warning Labels

Jet Ski: Warning: Riders of personal watercraft may suffer injury due to the forceful injection of water into body cavities, either by falling into the water or while mounting the craft. Air Freshener: For use by trained personnel only. Rearview Mirror: Remember, objects in the mirror are actually behind you. Plastic Bag: Warning: Do not climb inside this bag and zip it up. Doing so will cause injury and death. Grapes: Please store in the cold section of the refrigerator. Breath Savers: Not for weight control. Milk Crate: Theft of this container is a crime. Scooter: This product moves when used. Washing Machine: Do not put a person inside the washer. Precision Screwdriver Set: Not to be inserted anywhere into the human body. ShopInRI 71

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Hometown Success By Jane Vassar

Gaulin Insurance

Commercial, residential, auto, and life insurance—even insurance for a popular board game—Chris Gaulin has Rhode Island covered. Chris is the third generation to operate Gaulin Insurance, a family business that’s been a part of the Cranston community since 1961, Chris has inherited quite a legacy, and it’s a job he takes extremely seriously. “I want to pass on what I learned from my dad to my team, to help us be successful,” he says. Success for Chris means not just selling policies; it means doing it with integrity by educating his customers to make informed choices, and ensuring that “the right person has the right policy.”

Chris is carrying on the 55-year family tradition of providing the customer care that has made Gaulin Insurance a success. An integral part of the Cranston business community for decades, with an office located near Cranston City Hall, and membership in the Chamber of Commerce for 20 years—not to mention a softball team sponsor that made the playoffs last season—is why we like and trust this local businesses. They know what we need, because they know us and we know them. And no matter what type of insurance policy you need, Gaulin Insurance can find one that fits. When longtime customer and Bananagrams inventor Abe Nathanson realized his board game would need to be insured, he came to Gaulin. Who better to know what his business insurance needs were than the local company who knew him, his family, his business? This has been the formula for success for Gaulin Insurance since 1961, and it’s a formula Chris Gaulin intends to use for years to come.

Gaulin Insurance is in a good position to do just that— with a team that has over 100 years of combined experience, they are uniquely qualified to meet local residents’ insurance needs. And while being insurance pros has helped this local business thrive, its longevity is owed in part to the fact that Gaulin and his employees live and work in the community they serve. That’s how Gaulin Insurance is now, and how it’s been since 1961. As the founder of Gaulin Insurance, Edward Gronneberg lived downtown and walked to work every day, a practice that was undoubtedly a factor in his reaching his 96th birthday this year. Gronneberg’s sonin-law, Stephen Gaulin, bought the business in 1983 when Gronneberg retired, and continued operations in downtown Cranston, while joining the Chamber of Commerce in 1996. When Stephen Gaulin decided to retire, he sold the business in January 2016 to son Chris who had been working with his dad since 2003. Stephen Gaulin can now enjoy winters as a Florida ‘snowbird’, knowing that ShopInRI 73

Call Today To See Why Waterloov Is The #1 Gutter Protection System On The Market!

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Year Round Gutter Protection Yes, all year gutter protection is necessary, not just in the fall and winter with leaves and ice. What about rodents and birds? I hadn’t thought about this until it actually happened to me. I am one who loves nature, yes, even the rodents; so when my gutters became clogged, and I thought the poor animal might not make it; I asked myself why I hadn’t thought about a gutter guard sooner and hoped it wouldn’t be too late. For me, it was all about the poor animal that shouldn’t have been in this situation. For most of you, it’s about water that freezes from snow and ice melting on your roof, resulting in a heat loss and ice buildup in the gutters, resulting in damage to the gutters and roof, and causing ice dams and leaks. It could also be the piled up leaves in the fall that clog the gutters. Whatever the issue, Waterloov is the solution to clogged gutters! Joe Marzone, of RI & MA Waterloov, met with me to discuss my issue. I only wish I had met Joe before I needed him. What I loved about Joe, besides his great personality :), was his honesty. When I asked if there would be further maintenance after the installation, his response was, “most other companies will tell you maintenance is not needed. All gutter guards require some kind of maintenance. The real question is, can the maintenance be done from a ladder, the ground, or can a homeowner do it?” This is where Waterloov differs from other gutter protection companies. Waterloov uses a small light weight brush mounted on the end of a telescopic pole and it is brushed across the louvers. The stiff bristles knock off any debris that may be covering the louvers. Waterloov also comes with Guaranteed LifeTime Performance and a 20 year paint guarantee.

tector to the front of the panel and down the front vertical surface of the protector. The difference is in the water collectors. Where most other gutter covers contain only one long fin that can let large debris in, Waterloov has a face with two rows of discriminating louvers that limit the size of debris, and collect all the water without overshooting.

Another major factor in my choosing Waterloov was the curb appeal it provides. I didn’t want one of those helmetlooking systems. Waterloov compliments your home, bringing the roof line and gutter line together. You have 18 different colors to choose from and they help you choose the right color by following some guidelines that Joe was kind enough to go over with me. Every roof has a different angle. With Waterloov, the end-caps are custom fabricated. It just kept getting better and better. I didn’t know the first thing about gutter protection but by the time Joe left, I could have worked for Waterloov being that he was so thorough.

Waterloov also has a protective wall approximately 1/16” in height at the bottom part of the lower row of louvers that keeps debris from being blown or washed into the gutter. No other product gives you this protection and others trap debris. There is a small amount of debris that can collect, but it is washed out due to the design of the louvers which cause a swirling action at the bottom of the gutter. I never thought I would be so educated or interested in gutter protection, but Joe Marzone and the team at Waterloov made it a fun learning experience. They are professionals who want to make sure even the gutters on your roof match and enhance the appearance of your home.

Waterloov does not use nails or glue. Fasteners of any kind are never used as they could ruin your roof or cause leaking. How it works is water flows onto the top of the gutter pro-

Thanks to Waterloov and its expert staff, my experience was not only educational, but provided me perfect gutters and peace of mind. By Susan Gazerro

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Ask An Expert Expert WatchingAsk YourAnWindows! My name is Tom Lopatosky. I am the president of Spring Exterior LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) Maintenance and honored to have the opportunity to be available to provideChecklist you information and guidance about home improvement, a monthly basis. My name on is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the Thanks in advance for taking the time to read and this President of LOPCO Contracting I’m honored haveneed the opportunity column and hopefully, learn allto you to know to talk to home you about home improveabout how to address your improvement ment on a monthly basis. I love concerns! I love answering your questions! Please answering your questions! Please send send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call them to tom@LopcoContracting.com. 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!

Now that our spring haskindest FINALLY started to warm up, many Afterweather perhaps the winter that many of us Rhode Islanders Springopen!) is upontheir us. With its annual there people are openinghave upever (andseen, keeping windows for arrival, the first a number of things that are often looked at as a “must” in time in months! are terms of home maintenance; here is a recommended Spring “to-do” list to help focus on these areas:

As our windows open and stay open more consistently, it is a great time -Exterior washing of home – does your home have dirt, mold, or to take note of their condition. We want to ensure that we are fully able mildew on it? – this is a great time of year to get it washed!! to enjoy having the fresh air come into our home, and not have to worry -Window washing (exterior & interior) – many peoplemonths. clean their about window-oriented maintenance issues during the coming windows twice a year (once in the Spring & once in the Fall) – if embarking on this yourself, remember to use a squeegee vs. just

Here are some window items tobyprimarily focus on: a papermaintenance towel/newspaper/etc., themselves.

-Springscreens yard cleanup – removal of leaves/debris thatgaping may have - Condition of window – Make sure that there are no gathered from over the winter, trim bushes/trees, dethatch lawn holes, rips, or tears that could allowtounwanted pests in. – Spring is the time set your yard’s foundation for the rest of the year.

- Make sure storm windows move up and down freely, lock where they are -Gutter system check – make sure all downspouts are properly supposed to lock, connected and seemand likeclean/flush they staygutter within theirtotracking. system make sure there are no leaks and the system is functioning as it should be.

- If you have tilt-in windows, test each window to make sure they easily -Inspection of paint/stain coatings – inspect anything that may tilt-in and then reconnect back intooutside their –track withoutthe anhouse issue.itself, deck be painted/stained this includes areas, any sheds or detached garage/other buildings – by doing

this, if– any issues peeling are noticed, they can be nipped in - Clean your windows both sidesof (including storm windows!!)! I the bud so that they do not lead to bigger issues (rotted wood, a recommend doingpaint this job twice a year (once in spring; once in fall) – use a needing to be entirely re-done sooner than ideal, etc.). squeegee when doing so for maximum effectiveness, instead of just This basic serve a good guideline get you going. pushing the dirt around onlist theshould surface ofasthe window withtonewspaper or paper towels. Spring is a tremendous time of year! By jumping on these maintenance items as early as possible, the stage is set to really

to becondition able to enjoy of your property in the - Check the hardware of the yourexterior windows – ensure that allmonths cranks to come - for what many consider the most beautiful part of the and locking mechanisms are doing their job properly!! calendar in the Ocean State!! Tom Lopatosky does need to be enacted, many If it is found that About window maintenance Tom Lopatosky has run his own carpentry and painting business in local hardware stores or handymen specialize in these types of repairs. Providence since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular If you get stuck, feel free to reach out toin me (tom@LopcoContracting. Professionals” – specializes carpentry and exterior & interior painting. In 2013,and he was named of the you Year”in by the the Painting com or 401-270-2664) I will be“Humanitarian happy to guide properand Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award direction. winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both the PDCA and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has weekly ‘Home

Improvement Tips’ athat air on the radio on 630during WPRO AM (during Living in Rhode Island, we have limited time period the year,the weekday morning and on television WPRI 12 (during the air where we can comfortably have news) our windows openonand enjoy the fresh Saturday morning news). from outside. To make sure that we make the most of this time period, staying on top of the condition of our windows is an absolute must!!!

About Tom Lopatosky Tom Lopatosky has run his own carpentry and painting business in Providence since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in carpentry and exterior & interior painting. In 2013, he 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 the PDCA and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that air on the radio on 630 WPRO AM (during the weekday morning news) and on television on WPRI 12 (during the Saturday morning news).

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LOUIE’S BARBER SHOP By Mario Farone

For those of you reading in Smithfield, we have some news that might have missed you. There’s a new barber in town giving traditional straight razor shaves and insanely cheap cuts, right in your backyard. Well, that may be stretching the truth, some. Louis Pompeii has been cutting hair for over 20 years now, so we can’t exactly classify him as a new barber. But, that other thing I said, about the razor shaves and cheap cuts – that’s all true. Pompeii has just recently opened a brand new barbershop, aptly named ‘Louie’s

Barbershop’ in Smithfield, right off of Putnam Pike. He offers some the cheapest cuts around at just $12 a cut, and $9 a cut for seniors. Pompeii also offers all cuts for only $9 dollars every Monday (you know, the day that all the other guys are closed) and $10 hot lather and towel straight blade shaves every day of the week. Sound too good to be true? Well, it’s not, and it gets even better! “Everything is new. Top of the line clippers, flat screen, barber coats, you name it!” Said Pompeii when asked about his traditional and welcoming interior design. Having just opened in the late fall of 2015, all of Pompeii’s tools, furnishings, and products are the best and newest around. And not only is everything new, everything is clean! No hair piles resting on the ground, waiting to be kicked around. No scissors or razors with left over hair hanging from their end. Just a cozy waiting area and a clean shave await. “I always like to match. Blue barber coat, blue jacket, blue shoes.” Pompeii joked with me. Yet, a comforting thing to hear from a barber. A clean environment and an attention to detail are perhaps the two most important traits a barber can possess. With just over 20 years of experience, Pompeii

knows that better than most, and having worked under many shops in the past, he decided it was time for him to take the next step and open his own. Despite being only 6 months old, the barbershop has already developed a strong clientele and Louie looks to grow. I asked him what he had planned for the future of his shop and he answered ‘more people and more hours. “By May 1st, I’m aiming to be open Monday through Saturday, 9 in the morning until 8 at night.” You’ll be hard-pressed to find hours comparable to Louie’s, that’s for sure, let alone the skill of the barber or the low prices. And, when the summer nights come rolling in, having the opportunity to get a fresh cut or a clean shave practically any night of the week, means you’ll always have the opportunity to look your very best. Louie’s Barbershop is located on 129 Dean Ave, Smithfield with current hours of Monday & Friday 9am-7pm, Tuesday through Thursday 9am-4pm, and Saturday 9am-5pm. Walk-in’s are welcome or call 401-439-4636 to reserve a time. Every 10 cuts, your next cut is free! ShopInRI 81

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Things You Didn’t Know

1. A survey found that 98% of HR managers would hire a former employee, but only 48% of workers would accept an offer from a previous boss. 2. According to a study of 15 major cities, New York City has the most complex public transportation system in the world. 3. You have a .08 percent shot of joining NASA’s next astronaut class if you applied for one of their 14 vacant positions this past year. 4. Identical twin sisters Kerri Bunker and Kelli Wall, age 36, each gave birth to twins—twice. 5. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson hasn’t eaten candy since 1989. 6. Nickelodeon’s “Legends of the Hidden Temple” and “Hey Arnold!” will soon return to the small screen as TV movies. 7. According to a U.S. study, teens that are homeschooled benefit from healthier sleep habits than those who go to private and public schools. 8. Stress can cause a human’s hair to fall out up to 10 times more than usual. 9. The average US consumer receives about 41 lbs. of junk mail a year, which destroys about 396 square feet of natural habitat per consumer. 10. Park Ranger Roy Sullivan was struck by lightning for the 7th time on the same day that he fought off a bear with a stick for the 22nd time. 11. “Family Guy” creator Seth Macfarlane has three jazz and swing albums to his name, two of which are Grammy-nominated. 12. From June 2015 to March 1, 2016, Donald Trump described 47 different topics “sad” on Twitter.

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enough your body to make For the first time carbon ever, thein Pentagon has invited out1. There’s 1. side pencils. hackers to attempt to break into their system as 900 a way to test itsWITH cyber security. WHAT’S UP THAT? WHAT’S UP WITH THAT? babies blink about a 2. Newborn On February 6, 2016, for the firstonce timeor in twice recorded minute. Adults blink about 20 times a minute. history, it was reported that a meteorite killed a WHAT’S person—a UP bus WITH driver inTHAT? India. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT? It would take 4,000 helium balloons to lift a 3. Anheuser-Busch has spent $278.3 million on Super 3. 110 pound person. Bowl ads over the past THAT? decade. WHAT’S UP WITH WHAT’S UP WITH THAT? would have to Bush consume 130 cups of tea George and Barbara once lived in Little Comp4. You consecutively to die ofGeorge caffeine overdose. ton with three-year-old W. Bush. WHAT’S UP THAT? WHAT’S UPWITH WITH THAT? owners unlock theirthe device, on average, 80 5. iPhone bottles you put into recycling bin aren’t 5. The times a day. actually recycled into new bottles. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT? WHAT’S UP WITH THAT? 6. According to a survey, nearly two-thirds of Milonlydonate sensetothat doesn’t fully when or we lennials charities, and 43%rest volunteer 6. The belong to community organization. are sleeping is our hearing. WHAT’S UP THAT? WHAT’S UPWITH WITH THAT? 7. Samuel L. Jackson has a clause in his film contracts King approximately 1/2shoots million 7. Burger that allows himuses to play golf during film pounds wheneverofhebacon wants.every month. WHAT’S UPWITH WITH THAT? WHAT’S UP THAT? in the states of losing Super Bowl teams 8. Peopleare 200,000,000 insects for every human 8. There request smartphone repairs almost 200% more the in the world. day after the game than on an average day. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT? WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

foot dead is themouse samewas length your your A recently just as found in thigh, a 155-year9. Your fist is the size of your heart, and your hand is old trap and is on display at the Museum of English Rural Life; the size of apparently, your face. the trap still works. WHAT’S UP THAT? WHAT’S UPWITH WITH THAT? 10. You need to be shorter than 6’3” in order to get a job World goes through 194,874 miles of 10. Disney as an astronaut. toilet paper every THAT? year. WHAT’S UP WITH WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

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What are you going to do with your tax refund? Preparing Not Your Home to Sell This Spring a homeowner yet? Now is the time! According to the IRS, the average tax refund is a little over $3,000. Don’t let your tax refund go to waste; put it towards buying a home! Many people think they are not eligible to buy a home because they don’t have a large amount of money to put down as a down payment and that is completely false. More often than not, home buyers actually put ZERO down when buying their first home! Read on to find out how! The most common loan type that most first time home buyers choose is the Rhode Island Housing 100% financing loan. This loan enables buyers who have not owned a home in the This andtosummer anticipated to be last spring three years purchaseisa property putting $0 extremely down. That’s busy in the Real Estate world. Home prices aretogoing right, you could go to your closing and not have bring a meet to certain income requirements as well updime! and Buyers buyers must are eager purchase while interest rates as meet a certain debt to income ratio. remain low. If you’re thinking of selling your home, these

tips are very important.

1.

Curb Appeal is KEY – Make buyers want to come inside! Trim bushes and trees back so your home is more visible. Sweep and power wash the front of your home and driveway to remove any leftover salt and dirt from the winter. Clean your windows so they are sparkling clean. Put a fresh coat of paint on your front door, as well as fresh mulch and colorful flowers, so your home POPS.

2.

Eliminate CLUTTER – “Less is more” is a saying that is so important when selling your home. If you pack away everything but the bare minimum, your home will not only look larger but also appear cleaner and more appealing to buyers. Go through your closets and purge anything you haven’t used or worn in the last year. Packed closets will appear as though the home doesn’t offer enough storage.

3. Pre-inspection – A pre-list home inspection is not

only informative but can actually help a seller get the most profit. For a few hundred dollars, an inspector will come out and give you a list of recommended repairs just as if you were a buyer. When you repair your home prior to a buyer requesting it, you position yourself better. For example, a buyer may ask for a $500 credit for a repair that would have cost you $100 to fix or that the repair is done by a licensed contractor, when you in fact could do it yourself.

4.

Pricing – Prices are rising however, home owners should never price their home based upon a value they see online. Overpricing a property actually does more

A brand new program offered also by Rhode Island Housing is the Renewed Homes Program. This program is a grant based program that gives buyers who have NEVER owned a home $20,000 of down payment assistance on homes that meet specific criteria. The grant is forgivable after the buyer has lived in the property for at least five years, however; should they move prior to the five year mark they are required to pay it back. This program is eligible on homes that are either bank owned, short sales, or rehabbed homes that no one has occupied since the foreclosure or short sale. In addition, the home has to be in one of the following communities: Central Falls, Cranston, East Providence, Johnston, North Providence, Pawtucket, Providence, Warwick, West Warwick, or Woonsocket. Buyers still needthan to meet theWhen same income requirements as wellitasstays debt harm good. a home is overpriced, toonincome ratios for the regular 100% financing loan program the market and becomes stale and stigmatized. In through Rhode Island Housing.

order to avoid this, you must price your home based on comparable properties that have within State the last 6 Another relatively new program is sold the Ocean Grad months. similar footage, Grant. ThisComparable grant is also meaning; for first time home square buyers who have just recentlynumber graduated from collegebathrooms, in the lastgarage, 36 months upgrades, of bedrooms/ etc. and have earned an associates, bachelors, masters, or doctoral When a home is priced correctly, it should result in a degree. This grant gives buyers down payment assistance of lottoof$7,000 activity a sale relatively quickly. up andand is also forgivable after 5 yearsOften of thetimes buyer when a home is positioned correctly in the market place, occupying the property. a bidding war will take place and sellers will often end Besides these programs for first time home buyers, up selling forunique over the asking price. USDA offers a 100% financing program for any buyer that purchases a home in certain rural areas. In addition the Veterans Administration also offers 100% financing Veterans. A Hire an expert – Hiring a realtortoistheir so important loan secured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) in order to get your home sold for the most amount of requires 3.5% of the purchase price to be put down as a down money in shortest time.who Wedoes know payment. Anthe FHA loan isamount also for aofbuyer nothow own to price homes, we know how to market your another property at the time of close. There are also home several conventional programs starting as low as 3% down. effectively, we are professional negotiators, we know the

5.

market conditions, and all of the paperwork is OUR

There are so many options to get you on the path to home responsibility! You wouldn’t perform surgery on yourself, ownership. Contact me today for a no obligation consultation why try sellway your Hire an expert! tosoexplore thetobest to home get youyourself on that ?path! I Ilook forward to serving you, your and yourand family! look forward to serving you,friends, your friends, your Amanda Hannon, Realtor family! 401-575-7854 Amanda Hannon, Realtor amhannon91@gmail.com 401-575-7854 Service you deserve.| Aamhannon91@gmail.com Realtor you can trust.

Service you deserve A realtor you can trust. 575-7854 amandahannonproperties.com ShopInRI 87

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Know your Advisor and your Investment By: Robert N. Auclair 5. One of the most scrutinized investment products are annuities. Annuities very rarely or never state how much the commission is for the seller of the product. The best way to assess an annuity would be to compare it to other annuities. Here are a few steps you should take: 1-make sure the annuity company is reputable and receives high marks from third party ratings. 2-make sure the timeframe is appropriate for your situation. Most commonly annuity timeframes are anywhere from 3-12 years. 3-If you are in a long annuity be sure to understand how much you can access per year (usually 5%-10%). 4- Many times the rate that is stated is only guaranteed for the first year. Be sure to confirm the rate for all years you own the contract. Many people feel their advisor has their best interest at heart and would never deceive them. They also believe their investment is most suitable for their situation. However, as an investor you need to be diligent in your actions and be sure to verify your advisor and your accounts. Here are a few guidelines to make sure you are being diligent when it comes to keeping your investments safe. 1. Verify that your advisor does not have any complaints against s/he. Go to the federal government’s website www.sec.gov or www.finra.com and enter your advisors name. This will pull up your advisor’s affiliations and any history that is noteworthy for an investor to know. 2. Many advisors don’t go to school to become an advisor. In many cases it is a simple test that an advisor passes and then that advisor can sell you investments. Advisors can than become high pressure sales people. You may want to look for a background of extensive study in the field. The most common designation that takes time and has a 10 hour, two-day exam is the CFP designation. CFP stands for certified financial planner. Be sure to check out your advisor’s background on www.cfp.net. 3. Advisors are conduits to your investments and should be holding your investments with reputable companies. Many advisors create their own statements to supplement the brokerage statements (i.e. Fidelity, Merrill Lynch, etc.) and these statements are usually very helpful. Be sure that you verify that your investments are held at a reputable firm by calling the customer service number and/or taking receipt of monthly statements from the brokerage firm. 4. If you are searching out an advisor understand the fees associated with how the advisor runs his or her business. One popular way is for an advisor to sell you a load mutual fund. Load funds are most commonly come in one of three forms. The first is a front end load. This is an A share which can charge up to 5.75% up front. A B-share charges 1% annually for 5-7 years and a C share charges 1% annually. Each of these share classes also have management fees that the mutual fund companies charge. Another form of compensation is a flat fee or a percentage of assets. Shop around and compare. Make sure you know what you are paying and if it is a fair price.

6. Your 401K plan can many times be the place where most of your wealth is accumulated. Be diligent with the choices you make within this investment vehicle. Here are a few steps to consider. 1-Diversify your current balances and future contributions. 2- annually check the fees you are paying for each investment you hold in your 401K. 3-Annually increase your contributions. 4- If investment choices are poor be sure to tell your human resource representative you are not happy. 7. Keeping money in the bank is not always the safest place. In most cases keeping your money in the bank is FDIC insured and you will not lose your principal. However, with current interest rates at banks averaging less than 0.10% and inflation averaging around 2.5% you are losing money. Consider this: The cost of goods increases each year and if the money you are going to use for future purchases is not increasing you are losing future purchasing power. To simplify this let’s use the following example. If during retirement you plan on purchasing a new car for $30,000 and inflation is 2.5% the cost of that car in 20 years is $49,158. If you had that $30,000 today and it earned 1% for 20 years you would have $36,606. That is a difference of $12,552. You need to put your money to work. These are just a few guidelines to follow when investing. Most advisors do a great job but every now and then there are those advisors and investments that are unsuitable or fraudulent. Remember if it sounds too good to be true it probably isn’t true. Be conscientious when it comes to your investments it’s the key to a happy future.

Robert N. Auclair, CFP® Principal

378 Main Street, Suite 105 East Greenwich, RI 02818 O F F I C E / 401-398-2000 F A X / 401-398-2060

rauclair@balancedwealth.com

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Give Your Investment Portfolio a “Spring Cleaning”

Now that spring has officially sprung, you might look around your home and decide it’s time for some sprucing up. But you don’t have to confine your efforts to your house and yard – you can also engage in a little “spring cleaning” in your investment portfolio. Here are a few suggestions for doing just that: • “Dust off ” your investment strategy. Dusting is a big part of spring cleaning. Light fixtures, shelves, windowsills – they can all acquire layers of dust and grime that need to be whisked away. And if you’ve left your investment strategy unexamined for a long period, it too may need to be “dusted off ” and re-evaluated. Over time, your financial goals, family situation and even risk tolerance can change, so it’s a good idea to review your overall strategy to make sure it’s still appropriate for your needs. • Get rid of “clutter.” Once you start tidying up your house, you might be surprised at all the “duplicates” you find – a broom in a bedroom, another broom in the laundry room, a third in the garage, and so on. Just as you probably don’t need multiple brooms, so you may find that you have many versions of the same type of investment in your portfolio. If you own too many of the same investment, and a market downturn affects that particular asset, your portfolio could take a big hit. You may be better off by selling some of the toosimilar investments and using the proceeds to diversify your holdings. (However, while diversification can reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio, it can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss.) • Remove “stains” on your portfolio. As you clean your carpets and furniture, you might notice some stains that should be removed. And when you look through your portfolio, you might find some “stains” in the form of chronically underperforming investments. Instead of holding on to these vehicles with the hope that they will eventually turn around, you might consider selling them and using the proceeds to purchase new invest-

ments, which can help fill any gaps you may have in your holdings. • Consolidate your accounts. Have you ever discovered a stapler in one drawer, a roll of tape in the linen closet and a bunch of marking pens on your desk? All these items may be useful, but for the sake of efficiency (and to cut down on frustrating searches), you might want to consolidate them in one place. And you could do something similar with your investments. Specifically, if you have some stocks here, a couple of certificates of deposits there, and some IRAs at still another place, you might consider consolidating them with one financial services provider. With all your investments in one place, you could possibly reduce the fees and paperwork associated with maintaining your accounts. And when you eventually start taking withdrawals from your IRA and 401(k), you may find it easier to calculate these required distributions if they’re coming from just one place. But just as importantly, when you consolidate your investments with one provider, you may find it easier to follow a single, unified investment strategy. So, there you have them - some spring-cleaning ideas to help you update and 550 energize your investment portfolio. And you won’t even need a dustpan.

Steven J Grasso, CFP®, AAMS® 63 Sockanosset Cross Road Suite 1b, Cranston, RI 02920 (401) 944-0409

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West Greenwich Animal Hospital Inc.

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Dog Facts You Didn’t Know • A dog’s nose has about 4 times as many scent cells as a cat’s and 14 times more than a human’s. That’s why dogs are often used to track down illegal drugs and missing persons. They can sniff out their dinner from any room in the house! • With patience and understanding you can teach any old dog new tricks, depending on what you are trying to teach, or un-teach the dog, which is usually more difficult. Dogs can learn at any age, and like humans, it’s just old habits that are hard to break! • According to a recent survey, the most popular name for a dog is Max. Other popular names include Molly, Sam, Zach, and Maggie. • An estimated 1 million dogs in the United States have been named the primary beneficiary in their owner’s will. • Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not sweat by salivating. They sweat through the pads of their feet. • Dogs can alert their owners of an epileptic seizure up to an hour before it occurs. • Walt Disney’s family dog was named Lady. She was a poodle. • The heaviest dog ever weighed 319 pounds. • The oldest dog ever died at age 29. ShopInRI 105

How to Safely Socialize Your Puppy with Other Dogs

By Heidi Palmer McNeil, CTC, CPDT-KA

Pooch Pawsitive

When pups are very young, they haven’t learned their social manners yet, so it’s likely that they will make a mistake with another dog until they learn how to socially engage. They need to learn “bite inhibition” (how to bite softly or not at all). They also need to learn social communication skills (how to invite play, how to avoid play or tell another dog to back off). We do not recommend that your puppy meet older/strange/unknown dogs yet. Your pup needs to learn social skills first before he gets to hang out with the adults! So do NOT go to dog parks yet. Also, we want to make sure that your pup’s experiences are all positive so that he has a good association with other dogs. Unknown dogs could snap at your pup and cause your pup to be afraid of dogs in the future. For that reason, I recommend that your new puppy meet other puppies of similar age, size, play style, and experience, so that they are all learning together at the same pace. Is the Puppy Playgroup safe for your puppy? There are many puppy playgroups popping up these days in the name of socialization, but how do you know if the playgroup is safe for your pup? Here are some things to look for when evaluating socialization experiences for your pup: • The playgroup is supervised by a qualified 106 ShopInRI

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dog trainer. Look for formal schooling or certifications (yes, you can go to school to be a dog trainer and become nationally certified! Just because someone has been doing this for 20 years does not mean that they are using safe, modern training methods). • New pups should be allowed to engage in play at their own choosing. In other words, if your new pup is shy and wants to sit in your lap at first; that’s ok! We want the pup to decide when he wants to play! If a shy pup is just put in the middle of the floor and overwhelmed by the other puppies, he might become afraid of other pups. The trainer should allow your pup to take his time and decide on his own! • You get to stay with your pup! The trainer supervising the playgroup should be explaining everything that is going on so that you can learn about what normal dog play looks like. Pups play with their mouth so it does look rough, but it’s normal! The trainer should be explaining dog body language and postures so that you learn how to monitor your dog’s play in the future. • The supervising trainer should also be teaching you (the humans) how and when to interrupt play. Happy interruptions help the pup learn to pay attention to you even though all his friends are there. Happy interruptions can

be calling your dog do “Come,” asking your dog to “Sit,” calling your dog by name, etc. If the trainer uses squirt bottles, penny cans, or yelling at your puppy to interrupt, then this is not a good playgroup. • The pups in the playgroup are separated by age. Inexperienced, young puppies should never be mixed with older, larger more experienced dogs. We want your pup’s experience to be safe and not overwhelming. When dogs are similar in age, they make similar mistakes and are all in the same boat. • New pups in the playgroup are separated by size. Tiny dogs should not be put together with larger dogs, at first. We want to make sure that the small puppies have enough confidence and that the larger puppies have learned how to use their feet! • Pups are separated by play style. Small breed, young puppies tend to do a lot of chasing and

running around. As they get older, larger breeds tend to do more wrestling with physical contact. Pups should be matched with appropriate play partners. • As puppies get more experienced, and as the trainer gets to know your pup’s play style, then you can mix things up. Eventually, you want your pup to learn to socialize with all types, sizes and ages of dogs, so that your puppy is comfortable meeting any dog in the future. We have seen Jack Russell puppies become great friends with Great Dane puppies! It all depends on the dog’s confidence, play style and experience. Remember that between birth and about 16 weeks of age is the most impressionable time when a puppy is a sponge for new experiences. During this tender “socialization period,” the other dogs that your puppy experiences now, will teach him how to react to dogs in the future. Let’s make sure that your pup gets off to a safe start, with well-run puppy socials and playgroups. ShopInRI 107

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I don’t just write articles; they are usually about my personal experiences; so here’s my story. My baby and love of my life, Aspen, a miniature American Eskimo, passed away in 2011. I have always loved animals but she gave me a whole different respect for animals. At the time, I couldn’t imagine replacing her with another dog. Some people need to do that right away, while others, like myself, need time. I needed time! There were lots of changes happening in my life and I missed coming home and being greeted by that sweet, innocent soul, but again; I couldn’t replace her. I started a small pet business, Aspen’s Paws, Pampering and Walking Services, and that filled the void without replacing her. I had the joy of walking and boarding so many precious babies and it was exactly what I needed. Recently my dear friend passed away leaving the love of his life, Rocky. Rocky went to live with my friend’s family, his mom, sisters, nieces and nephews. While all this was happening, a friend sent me a picture and short story about a dog found on the streets of Pawtucket and had ended up at the Pawtucket Animal Shelter. Mr. Rogers, as they called him, was depressed and scared. She sent it to me hoping I would help place this baby, as I work with a couple of animal organizations. Well, one look at this face and I knew I had to go meet him personally, as it was Rocky’s twin. The ironic thing is Rocky is a mix breed and this dog had Rocky’s coloring, features, build, etc. I had to go see him. I had never been to the Pawtucket Animal Shelter and was pleasantly surprised at how big, clean and welcoming it was. Well, I was able to look at the dog but could not interact with him as he needed to see a vet and I needed to fill out adoption 108 ShopInRI

paper work. At this moment, I filled it out thinking at least I’ll get to interact with him, but this does not mean I’m taking him. Fast forward a few weeks and I got a call that he was finally at the vet and I was approved! I could go see him that weekend. Well again, with no intention of taking him, I asked my mom to come see him and off we went. I did not clean the car. I did not bring a leash. I am not taking him. I’m just interacting with him. Well once Mr. Rogers, now named “Will” and I interacted; there was no leaving him at the shelter. He was coming home with me that day. The tears, the claps, the pictures as we were leaving the shelter overwhelmed me, and I just knew it was the right thing. What I realized that day is that the people who work at these shelters are so special. To me they have wings and are called angels. It takes a special human being to do what they do and there are too many animals in shelters. Will is an older dog and older dogs do not get adopted as frequently as pups; but if you know someone looking for a dog, consider this: Breeders are great, but when you rescue a dog you are giving that life a chance. It’s so rewarding. So consider going to your local shelter. Also, consider the home and lifestyle of yourself or whomever is looking for a pet. Older dogs can be a perfect match for someone who is busy, as they do not require the training, the frequent walks, etc. Older dogs basically require food, sleep, and love. What you get in return is priceless. “I love the hand that feeds me, or the hand that has nothing”. “I will stand by your side in the cold and I will protect you”. “I will be your best friend”. By Susan Gazerro Signed, Your Future Dog…

How to Become a Runner

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CARS DESERVE A SPA DAY TOO By Susan Gazerro

Once you have your vehicle washed or detailed at Finest Car Wash, you will understand why it’s called Finest Car Wash. Owner, Peter Montaquila, Jr. told me that this family owned business, which was opened by his grandfather in 1957, takes much pride in their work. “Quality is what brings people back”. They want you to love the noticeable improvement of your car after they’ve finished with it. They know that’s what brings you back. I drive by a lot of car washes and often see the customer wiping down their car after it’s been washed, or wrangling with the self serve vacuums. This would never happen at Finest! They are a full service, 100% brushless car wash. When they say full service they mean it! They are open

Monday-Saturday 8am to 5pm and on Sundays, 9am to 4pm. They are only closed four days a year: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years Day, and Easter. Full service 361 days a year! You can choose from one of the full service packages: Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum. Or, you may wish to opt for an interior or exterior detail. A detail, whether interior or exterior, will have you driving away feeling like you just bought a new car! You can also choose from a wax, rust removal, wheel, undercarriage, or tire service. They really cover it all, from a basic wash to a full detailing. It’s just a matter of what you want and what your car needs.

Another unique offering of Finest Car Wash is its full automotive convenience store right on the premises. They offer everything for automotive accessories, including air fresheners and window wiper blades. Whatever you need for your car can be purchased at Finest. Car washing is not all they do. They also offer full service auto repair. So, next time you are in Providence, stop at Finest Car Wash, located at 38 Pleasant Valley Parkway. Doesn’t your car deserve a Car Spa Day? After all, your car does a lot for you, and if you’re anything like me, it’s your second home; so treat it to a few minutes of luxury! ShopInRI 115

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When Gino DiMascio, a Cranston, Rhode Island resident and professional hair stylist, came to see me for his free consultation, he had hair restoration on his mind. Unlike men who may experience feelings of anxiety when they start losing their hair, Gino says he didn’t care. He simply wanted to do something about it. He never considered wearing a hairpiece. Hair restoration surgery was his #1 option. After friends challenged him to go to Leonard Hair Transplant Associates (LHTA), Gino came into my Cranston office for a free examination. After evaluating his receding hairline, I concluded that hair restoration surgery was indeed his best option. A few months following his surgery, Gino shared, “I feel like a different person. I feel a lot more comfortable about myself… It makes me feel 10 years younger.” When asked how others reacted, Gino said people were surprised and impressed. He recalled some of the comments, from “What did you do?” to “Your hair looks so natural!” Surgery was so painless for Gino, he went home and cut his lawn following the procedure and compared it to a trip to the dentist. When asked what he would say to other people considering hair restoration surgery for the first time, Gino said, “I tell my clients all the time not to wait to get this done. And it’s nice knowing it’s your own hair - that was very important to me.” Dr. Robert Leonard Founder and Chief Surgeon