Shop In RI - April 2026

cover story 40-41

Jen

“I left in 1989 to work in Las Vegas and Florida at various Ital-

March 2021

festivals,” said Palmisano, who is a third-generation feast festival promoter and a well-known local philanthropist. Our family loves the area and has been a part of this community for years. When this space (for the restaurant) was available, it was like coming home again,” he continued.

Stacie

Tom

Andrew Irby

Writers

Mark Berger

Brian Lowney

Julia Romano

Jenn Lombari

Patrick Burke

Susan Gazerro

Sarah Wessel

Sales Executives

Jeffrey Manzo

Jim Lombari

Jenn Lombari

Michael Belsito

Fashion Editor

Rosanna Ortiz

Photographers

Guillermo Garcia

Allyson Barth

Michael Belsito

The restaurant employs a dozen people and prides itself on serving dishes with a nod to the “Old Country.” Diners can feast on several signature dishes, including their bone-in veal chops that are so big that they take up the entire plate, their linguini and clams and their Italian stuffed artichokes. Patrons can also dive into their fresh fish dishes, chicken or veal parmigiana with pasta, or perhaps for dessert, their amazingly delicious homemade cannolis.

Perhaps their calling card is their "World Famous Expresso Martinis,” among other specialty cocktails that are infused with rosemary, ginger and other herbs to give them an authentic flair and taste.

Palmisano said that his goal for operating a successful restaurant is simple: “I want people to feel like they are eating at my house.”

He noted about how meals are cultivated back in Italy. “It starts with visiting the local butcher shop for the freshest meat, then walking to the garden to select the vegetables, and maybe to the local store to pick up a bottle of wine. Palmisano said that the restaurant strives to maintain this tradition because “farm to table” offers the best quality and flavors for their customers.

“I hope that when customers visit Anthony’s Italian Cuisine, they enjoy a little piece of Italy with every made-to-order dish,” he said.

The restaurant is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The bar remains open one hour after closing.

They also cater events and have daily specials and promotions. For more details about these upcoming events, please call 401273-5900. More details may be found by visiting their website at www.AnthonysonFederalHill.com.

ShopInRI 09

12 Things You Didn’t Know

12 Things You Didn’t Know

1. Russia spans 11 time zones – It’s so vast that sunrise and sunset times differ widely across the country.

Charles F. Feeney has given away $8 billion—he now has $2 million to live on.

Spanish just for the purpose of trash talking opponents.

The sentence “the quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog” uses every letter in the English language.

The world’s first labor strike was held on the site of a pyramid.

MC Hammer once challenged Michael Jackson to a dance-off.

2. Some jellyfish can reverse aging and potentially live forever.

New research has found that the more visually creative a person is, the lower the quality of their sleep.

The average American woman now weighs as much as the average 1960s man.

The world’s oldest hotel has been operating since 705 AD in Japan.

All of the Rugrats were voiced by women.

The average human eats 8 spiders in their lifetime, at night.

Subscriptions to streaming music services increased by 50% in 2016, totaling 92 million.

3. Elephants can “hear” with their feet – They detect vibrations through the ground.

Research shows that the creativity may begin in the cerebellum, rather than the “right brain.”

The name tag on Heath Ledger’s nurse uniform in “The Dark Knight” read “Mathilda” the name of the actor’s daughter.

The average human eats 22 flies in their lifetime, at night.

In a group of 23 people, there is a 50% chance that 2 of them will share the same birthday.

4. Lightning is hotter than the sun – Reaches up to 30,000 K (~53,540°F)

According to an extensive study, the best day to buy plane tickets is Sunday—especially if you’re booking more than 21 days in advance.

Making art has been found to lower stress hormone levels in most people, regardless of skill.

You can control the volume of a YouTube video by using the up and down arrows on your keyboard.

A rhinoceros horn is made of compacted hair.

One man, without help and without proper construction tools, spent 34 years building the Watts Towers, which still stand in Los Angeles.

Studies show that, when it comes to food, the human brain is bad at judging quantity increases but accurate at judging quantity decreases.

In New York City, about 1,600 people are bitten by other humans every year.

A U.S. study found that the most disproportionately common interest found on people’s resumes in New Hampshire is “Bigfoot.”

5. – Argentine ants form supercolonies spanning thousands of miles, cooperating as one massive organism.

Louisiana has the highest incarceration rate of any U.S. state, and New Orleans has the highest incarceration rate of any city in the state.

The shortest war in history was between Zanzibar and England in 1896. Zanzibar surrendered after 38 minutes.

50% of Netflix users watch an entire season of a show in a week.

A new U.S. study has found that economy round-trip and one-way airline tickets are the lowest they’ve been since 2013.

6. Clouds weigh millions of pounds – A single cumulus cloud contains over a million pounds of water.

The design of the tallest residential building in the world, 432 Park Avenue in Manhattan, was inspired by a trash can.

A polar bear’s skin is black. Its fur is not white, but actually clear.

Samsung has been granted a patent in South Korea for contact lenses that project images directly into the wearer’s eyes.

By 2050, it’s estimated that four trucks of plastic waste will be added to the ocean every minute.

Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.

7. Your brain stops growing at 25 – But neurons can continue forming throughout life.

Studies show the key to happiness is spending your money on experiences rather than possessions.

Donald Duck comics were banned in Finland because he doesn’t wear pants.

By 2017, it is estimated that nearly 207 billion emails will be sent every day.

Research shows that kids are more likely to be honest when they know it will please their parents, even if their parents still punish them.

Air Jordans were banned from the NBA, however Michael Jordan always wore them as Nike was willing to pay the fine for each game.

8. There’s a giant underground ocean – Deep within Earth, water exists in a layer of rock, 3x the volume of all surface oceans.

On average, early risers writing emails between 4am and 8am make 11.8 mistakes per 100 words.

More people are killed by donkeys annually than are killed in plane crashes.

Studies suggest that gifted people often have bad handwriting because their brains work faster than their hands.

A recent study found that higher blood pressure in an expectant mother is associated with having a boy.

A study found that only 24% of Canadians know that Queen Elizabeth II is their head of state.

Studies show Americans ages 18-29 are far more stressed out that anyone else in the country.

9. Antarctica has active volcanoes – Mount Erebus erupts lava despite the icy surroundings.

Shakespeare invented the words “assassination” and “bump.”

Cheetos are naturally gray before they are given a bright orange artificial color.

In 2015, Americans wrote out 17.3 billion checks. In the same year, they made 69.5 billion debit card purchases.

Research has found that, on average, a person’s social media writing contains three times as many mistakes as their emails.

Cotton candy only costs about six cents per serving to make, including the cardboard cone.

10. here are more possible chess games than atoms in the universe – ~10^120 possible games.

If you keep a goldfish in the dark room, it will eventually turn white.

Looking through Instagram accounts of healthy meals can actually trick you into enjoying those foods more than you otherwise would, a study found.

According to a survey, 67% of hiring managers cite lack of eye contact as the biggest mistake candidates make in interviews.

According to NASA, the perfect nap should last no more than 26 minutes.

The name of all the continents end with the same letter that they start with.

Amy Schumer is the only woman ever to land on Forbes’s list of the world’s highest-paid comedians.

Women are statistically better drivers then men.

11. Water can boil and freeze simultaneously – This happens at a precise pressure called the triple point.

New research has found that the NFL players that incur the most penalties get arrested more than their teammates.

According to USDA projections, by 2025 Americans will consume 219 pounds of meat per year on average.feeling to occur.

The word “lethologica” describes the state of not being able to remember the word you want.

Studies suggest that eye contact must be held for about 8.2 seconds for that “Love at first sight” feeling to occur.

It cost $15 million to build Disneyland’s New Orleans Square—the amount the U.S. paid for the real New Orleans in the Louisiana Purchase.

12. Immense tree rings – Some bristlecone pines are over 5,000 years old, meaning they sprouted before the pyramids were built.

By Al Milukas

Al enjoys discovering great food, creative cocktails, and the people who make them. Listen to him on the Paul & Al show, weekdays on 94HJY. For more blogs delivered to your e-mail, sign up at www.livethelive.com.

FRESH CORN AND TOMATO SALAD

This is a salad you want to make now, while corn and tomatoes are still in season, but I’ve found that frozen organic corn and greenhouse tomatoes work pretty darn well.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. fresh or frozen organic corn

• 1 container grape tomatoes, chopped

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped

• 6 oz. mild crumbled cheese, like cotija or feta

• 1 package (5 oz.) organic baby arugula

• 1 teaspoon Fleur de Sel

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon capers, drained

• 2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

• If you’re using fresh corn, remove it from the ears, then pan saute it in a little olive oil, but leave it nice and crisp. If you can roast the ears of corn over some coals, even better. If you’re using frozen corn, pan saute in a little olive oil. Set the corn aside to cool.

• Mix the corn with all the other ingredients in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate.

• Right before serving, taste and season it again, mixing well. I think it’s best a little cooler than room temperature.

ASIAN NOODLES WITH PEANUT SAUCE

There’s something about Asian noodle dishes that make them incredibly addictive. They’re great hot or cold, and easy to make at home, which is important to me because I live in the boonies, about 30 miles from my favorite Asian restaurant. I store an arsenal of basic Asian ingredients in my pantry, so slapping this together is no effort at all. And if you don’t have Asian noodles around, chances are you’ve got a box of pasta, which works just as well.

To make this recipe gluten-free, I use Gluten Free pasta, and you can find gluten-free hoisin sauce in the Asian food section of most supermarkets.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon Chinese chili garlic sauce (more, if you like it spicy!)

• 16 oz. package Chinese noodles or pasta

Directions:

• Combine the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce in a bowl. Set it aside. I keep my peanut butter in the fridge once the jar is open, so sometimes it’s a bit thick. So I just zap it in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften it up.

• Boil the noodles or pasta until al dente. Drain it and place it in a large bowl.

• Mix the noodles with the sauce.

Turning Summer Demand into Long-Term Strength

by Farouk Rajab President/CEO, Rhode Island Hospitality Association (RIHA)

For Rhode Island’s hospitality industry, summer brings opportunity at a scale no other season can quite match. Dining rooms fill faster, hotels welcome a broader mix of travelers, events pick up, waterfront communities come alive, and expectations rise with the pace of business. For many operators, these months can shape the success of the entire year.

The strongest summer seasons are rarely the result of warm weather and good timing alone. They reflect the work that happens well before the first packed weekend: hiring early, enhanced training, revisiting service standards, improving communication among teams, and making sure operations can handle increased demand without losing quality. Summer can be a major revenue driver, but it also puts every part of a business under pressure.

The summer of 2026 will be unlike any other. It’s the nation’s 250th anniversary with the tall ships entering Boston Harbor and the FIFA World Cup 2026TM spanning June and July, bringing thousands of tourists in the Greater Boston and Greater Providence areas.

Staffing is the most immediate challenge. As businesses across the state ramp up for the incredibly busy season, many will rely on seasonal hiring to help meet demand. For many people, a summer job in hospitality is their first real exposure to the industry. It is where they learn how fast-paced this work can be, how much teamwork matters, and how much skill it takes to

create a strong guest experience.

What happens in these first roles can shape whether someone sees hospitality as a temporary stop or as a field worth creating a career in.

This makes the summer workforce conversation bigger than filling open shifts. A seasonal employee who feels supported, trained well, and connected to a team is far more likely to return, recommend the workplace to others, or even begin thinking about pursuing a career in the industry.

There is real value in helping seasonal workers understand that hospitality offers more than short-term employment. Many of today’s managers, chefs, and operators started in entrylevel or part-time summer roles. They stayed because someone invested in them, gave them responsibility, and helped them see a path forward. When businesses approach summer hiring with that mindset, they are building relationships that can strengthen their teams over time.

The summer economy also has a broader impact on hospitality businesses and the communities they serve. A strong season supports local employers, creates jobs, brings energy to tourism districts, and reinforces just how connected hospitality is to Rhode Island’s economic health. Restaurants, hotels, attractions, and

Farouk Rajab

event venues do not operate in isolation. Their success affects nearby retailers, transportation providers, cultural institutions, and many other parts of the local economy.

For these reasons, summer preparations should be viewed as both an operational priority and a long-term workforce strategy. During this time, businesses are shaping guest impressions, supporting their employees, and contributing to the experience people carry with them after spending time in Rhode Island.

At RI Hospitality, we see that connection clearly. Preparing for the summer surge means supporting the training and workforce development efforts that help this industry grow stronger with each season. It also means investing in opportunities like RI Hospitality’s World Cup readiness training initiative, a statewide effort focused on guest service, cultural awareness, de-escalation, and safety, which will help hospitality teams prepare for the

increased travel, global visitors, and heightened service expectations tied to the matches in Foxborough this summer.

Summer always moves quickly, but it is one of the most important opportunities of the year. For operators willing to prepare thoughtfully, invest in their workforce, and stay focused on both service and people, the season will build the kind of foundation that lasts well beyond Labor Day.

MON-SAT 9AM — 5PM

CLOSED SUNDAYS & HOLIDAYS

401-231-9290

OVEREATING VS. BINGE EATING

And How to Stop!

By: Susan Gazerro

Everyone overeats from time to time; however, overeating and binge eating are very different. Binge eating involves consuming large amounts of food in a short period—often within a few hours—even when you are not hungry. It is more serious than occasional overeating. When someone binge eats, they compulsively consume food regardless of hunger. This behavior is often used to cope with emotions, and it is usually followed by feelings of regret or shame.

All eating disorders are serious, and overcoming them begins with understanding their root causes. There is always an underlying issue that leads people to turn to food for comfort. What is missing? What is causing sadness or stress? What recent changes have occurred? These are important questions that need to be explored and answered. Binge eating, in particular, is often associated with emotional distress.

People who struggle with binge eating typically engage in this behavior at least twice a week for several months, often in private. They may avoid eating in public or being around others. If you are wondering whether you might binge eat, consider asking yourself the following questions: Are there times when you feel unable to stop eating, even when you want to? Do you ever surprise yourself with how much food you can consume in a short period? Do you feel guilty afterward? Do you often tell yourself, “Tomorrow I will stop,” only to repeat the pattern?

There are some similarities between overeating and binge eating. Both can involve mindless behavior, where you eat without really thinking about it. For example, overeating might look like having multiple desserts after a meal or finishing an entire bag of popcorn while watching a movie.

Binge eating, however, is more extreme and often done in secret. Examples include hiding food to eat alone, consuming an entire cake in one sitting, or eating several full meals’ worth of food despite feeling uncomfortably full. This behavior is typically followed by emotional distress, such as guilt or shame.

There is also something known as emotional eating, which can occur during both negative and positive events. Stressful situations like a breakup or the loss of a loved one can trigger emotional eating, but so can happy occasions such as celebrations, engagements, or other major life events. Some people eat more when they are sad or anxious, while others eat more when they are happy. For many, food becomes a source of comfort—but that comfort is often short-lived. Once the moment passes, the negative feelings can return, creating a cycle of using food for temporary relief.

If you think you may struggle with binge eating or another eating disorder, consider speaking with a doctor or therapist. Only a trained professional can properly diagnose and treat these conditions. While occasional overeating is common and not necessarily a disorder, frequent or compulsive overeating— especially when accompanied by a loss of control—is a key sign of binge eating. Overeating can also be a symptom of other eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa.

Seeking help is an important first step. A primary care doctor can help identify the issue and refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in eating disorders. Treatment may include therapy or, in some cases, medication. It is important

to note that traditional weight-loss programs are generally not an appropriate approach for treating eating disorders. If a healthcare provider focuses solely on weight loss, it may be worth seeking a second opinion.

Today’s culture often emphasizes appearance, and young people—especially girls—can be particularly vulnerable. Many feel pressure to look a certain way, sometimes at the expense of their health. Building self-esteem from a young age is essential. People need to understand that their worth is not defined by their appearance.

Eating disorders are serious illnesses and should be treated with care and understanding. Encouraging confidence and self-acceptance early in life can serve as a powerful preventative measure.

Fitness Is Physical. Mindset Is Everything.

by Stacie Venagro

We talk a lot about workouts. Programs. Reps. Macros. Steps. Heart rate zones. But the truth? Fitness is never just about your body. It’s about your mindset.

Your Body Follows Your Beliefs

If you walk into a workout thinking:

• “This is going to be awful.”

• “I’m not strong enough.”

• “I’ll never get there.”

Your body will follow that script.

But if you walk in thinking:

• “This is building me.”

• “I can handle hard things.”

• “Every rep is progress.”

Everything changes.

The people who transform their bodies aren’t the most motivated.

They’re the most consistent. And consistency is a decision:

• Show up even when it’s inconvenient.

• Do what you can on low-energy days.

• Focus on effort, not perfection.

You don’t need to win every workout. You just need to show up to the majority of them.

Stop Training Just to Look Different. Train to:

• Feel capable.

• Build discipline.

• Reduce stress.

• Improve longevity.

• Be strong for your family.

• Prove to yourself you can do hard things.

When your “why” is deeper than aesthetics, your mindset becomes unshakeable. Looking good becomes a byproduct. Feeling powerful becomes the goal.

Fitness Is a Daily Practice in Self-Respect When you move your body, fuel it well, and prioritize rest, you send yourself a message:

“I matter.”

And that message compounds over time.

The weight might still be heavy. The workout might still challenge you. But your interpretation of it shifts — and that shift is powerful.

Discomfort Is Growth in Disguise! So many people avoid fitness because it feels uncomfortable.

But here’s the reframe:

Discomfort isn’t punishment. It’s adaptation happening in real time.

Muscles burn because they’re being challenged. Lungs work harder because they’re getting stronger. You sweat because your body is responding.

Instead of asking, “Why is this so hard?” Ask, “What is this building in me?”

Strength isn’t just physical. It’s mental resilience.

Consistency Is a Mindset, Not a Mood Motivation is unreliable. Some days you feel unstoppable. Other days you want to hit snooze.

Fitness teaches:

• Patience.

• Emotional regulation.

• Delayed gratification.

• Confidence earned through effort.

It spills into your career. Your relationships. Your parenting. Your leadership.

The Real Transformation

The best transformations aren’t just before-and-after photos.

They’re:

• The woman who now believes she’s strong.

• The man who doesn’t quit when things get hard.

• The parent who models discipline for their kids.

• The person who stops waiting for perfect conditions.

Fitness changes bodies. Mindset changes lives.

And when you combine the two? That’s when everything shifts.

H E H C A D A E

When a headache is more than a just a headache

by LA Reilly

I felt the need to tell my story to help other people as I did in 2015 when I had breast cancer and I wrote a book about my journey to help other women. This incident that happened to me October 20th, 2025 was not related to my breast cancer.

I had been having headaches on my forehead for years. Doctors attributed to seasonal allergies. It was so bad a few years ago they had to put me on Prednisone thinking it was swelling of my membranes from allergies. I have an inhaler, I take Montelukast and Claritin for allergies. October 20th, on Monday morning, I got up to get ready for work at 6:00 AM. My regular routine heating up my coffee. I pushed 120 seconds on the microwave and woke up on the kitchen floor. I looked up at the microwave, I had never pushed start. I thought I was tired and possibly passed out although I had never passed out before. I got up, hit start on the microwave and woke up on the floor again. This time a chair had fallen over from the kitchen bar and my foot was killing me along with the back of my head from falling on the hard floor twice. I crawled on the floor and pulled myself up onto a chair thinking to myself “What is wrong with me? I can’t stand up without passing out” I remember getting onto the chair and holding onto the table. At this point my dog ran to my fiancé, who was in the bedroom, frantically clawing at the bed. He had heard a thud but didn’t think anything of it. He got up and came into the kitchen where he told me I was ready to fall off the chair. He laid me down on the ground. I passed out for the 3rd time. He thought I was dead. He said I had no pulse and my eyes rolled back in my head. He said he was screaming “No, No God No”! I came out of it for a third time. He wanted to bring me to the ER. I was still in denial of anything being wrong. I told him to lay me down on the couch and let me rest. I called work and told them I wouldn’t be coming in. I woke up around 11:00 AM and asked him to help me to the bathroom because I was afraid to walk and pass out again. He walked me to the bathroom and I passed out for the fourth time.

He drove me to the ER. The hospital did blood work, X-rays on my foot, which was killing me and swollen, and X-rays on my chest and X-rays on my head in case I had a concussion from falling. Waiting in the ER waiting room to see a doctor my results came through the portal on my phone: my foot was broken, my chest X-rays were fine then I read I had a cyst on my brain, a Colloid Cyst. I was in shock, too shocked to cry and I immediately googled ”Colloid Cyst”. It is a rare, benign (thank God), growth located in the third ventricle of the brain often causing dangerous sudden blockages of cerebrospinal fluid. Often asymptomatic they can cause severe headaches, dizziness, memory loss or sudden death. They are considered congenital, present at birth, and grow slowly over time from a remnant structure in the brain. They cause drop attacks which I had four of them from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The cyst is slow growing and took 57 years to get to the size it was of 7mm. It floats around in the spinal fluids and eventually gets big enough where it blocks the spinal fluids from draining causing “drop attacks”. My

surgeon said most people having one drop attack just die from the first drop. I had four so I consider myself blessed to have survived. I got in to see a doctor and he told me what I had just read on the portal. They were to keep me overnight to monitor my heart and then the neuro team would discuss next steps. They wheeled me up to a room where I spent the night hooked up to IVs and monitors. Every hour they woke me up and I would have to say my name, where I was and why I was there. Every hour from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM so I got zero sleep. Tuesday morning the team came in and said that they would have to do brain surgery to remove the cyst which I was hoping for anyway. I was only an hour away from driving to work. If that had happened, while I was driving, I would have died or killed someone. My surgery would be Wednesday. They wheeled me up to the intensive neurosurgery unit and went over with me what to expect. There were two ways to get the cyst: A non-invasive way and an invasive way. Non-invasive would require an incision about an inch long where they would send a camera into my brain with a grabber and would attempt to grab the cyst and remove. That would be an hour and a half if this was not successful they would immediately do the invasive procedure which would be breaking open my skull and removing it. This could cause severe seizures and would take about four hours. So I did a lot of praying Wednesday and I went into surgery. It took 4 1/2 hours. My fiance was terrified that the less invasive way didn’t work. They came out of surgery and told him it took them 4 1/2 hours but they were finally able to remove it with the grabber the non-invasive way. Thursday they drilled another hole in my head and put a drain into my brain in case there was fluid or blood from the surgery. After a day hooked up to a bag if all was clear they could remove it. Friday it was clear and they took the drain out of my brain. The whole week I was in intensive neurosurgery unit hooked up to IV’s and two monitors I couldn’t eat, although they wanted me to, when I tried to eat I threw up either in a bucket or all over the bed. I left with a boot from my broken foot. In December I had a follow up MRI which showed I was clear.

Moral of the story, and why I’m writing this, is not all headaches are something to “fluff off” as nothing. It could be something serious and not just allergy related. If I had gotten an X-ray prior to the episode they would have seen the cyst in my brain and removed it before I had dropped attacks. I am blessed that I came back four times from my blockage. Blessed I was not driving, blessed I had lots of prayers being said for me from family and friends, blessed my fiance was there to save me and I had the best care and surgeons taking care of me.

A colloid cyst is a slow-growing tumor typically found near the center of the brain

If large enough, a colloid cyst obstructs cerebrospinal fluid movement resulting in a build up of CFS in the ventricles of the brain and elevated brain pressure.

Symptoms:

• Most patients present with headaches

• Prompt surgical treatment may be required in order to reduce high risk of sudden death

Entire arm yellow from IVs

My cyst blocking fluids from draining

Best family and friends

What if one night could change someone’s life—and you were in the room when it happened?

On May 9, 2026, the evening before Mother’s Day, the Hearts United for Hope Gala will take place at the East Bridgewater Commercial Club (1 Nielsen Ave, East Bridgewater, MA)—and it promises to be far more than just a night out. It will be an experience rooted in purpose, connection, and real impact across New England.

Hosted by All Hearts United, this event reflects a mission built on turning hardship into hope. All Hearts United works directly within communities throughout New England, providing food assistance, outreach, recovery support, and scholarships for individuals working to rebuild their lives. The organization’s work is hands-on and immediate—supporting real people facing real challenges every single day.

This year, the gala carries even greater significance through its partnership with the Love Life Now Foundation, founded by survivor and advocate Lovern Gordon. Love Life Now is dedicated to supporting domestic violence survivors through education, awareness, and direct outreach. Together, these two organizations are creating

a powerful collaboration focused on healing, prevention, and long-term impact.

The purpose of the evening is clear and transparent.

50% of all proceeds will go directly to the Love Life Now Foundation, supporting domestic violence awareness and survivor advocacy.

The remaining 50% will go to the All Hearts United Community Action Fund, which helps finance scholarships within the recovery community and supports future events centered on healing, prevention, and empowerment.

Guests attending the gala will step into an unforgettable evening featuring a lobster and steak dinner, creating a warm and elevated atmosphere where people can connect while supporting a meaningful cause. The event will also feature raffles and auctions with over $350,000 in prizes, including luxury travel packages, exclusive sports and entertainment experiences, Boston Bruins memorabilia, and high-end gift items.

At the heart of the evening is a powerful lineup of speakers. Lovern Gordon will headline as the main speaker, sharing a deeply moving story of survival, strength, and advocacy. She will be joined by Rob DeMeo, Dan Smola, and Kylie LaFantano, each bringing real-world experience in recovery, outreach, and community support. Their voices represent the true impact of what happens when people come together with purpose.

The timing of this event—just one day before Mother’s Day—adds a profound emotional layer. It is a time to reflect on the strength of mothers, the importance of family, and the reality that many individuals are still fighting for safety, stability, and healing. This gala is about standing beside them and being part of something that truly matters.

For readers of this magazine, there is an immediate opportunity to take part.

Scan the QR code featured alongside this article to purchase your ticket and secure your seat at the gala. In addition to attending, local businesses and organizations are invited to get involved as sponsors or by hosting a resource table at the event. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your business to a highly engaged audience while directly supporting causes that impact communities across New England. Sponsors and partners will receive recognition during the event and through ongoing promotional efforts, aligning their brand with a mission rooted in compassion, impact, and community leadership.

This is more than a gala—it is a movement. It is a room filled with people who chose to show up, give back, and make a difference.

On May 9th,

that room will come to life. The only question is—will you be in it?

FIVE TRENDS IN MEN’S FASHION

Wardrobe ‘ins and outs’ for Spring/Summer 2026.

Roaring Fashions, a bespoke and ready-to-wear men’s luxury clothier based in East Greenwich, released its annual guidance for men’s wardrobe essentials for Spring and Summer 2026.

“Timeless never goes out of style, so having a base of essential clothing pieces that every gentleman should own is key,” states Roaring Fashions Owner Cheryl Petteruti, an East Greenwich resident who is the only female men’s clothier in the state of Rhode Island. “Quality t-shirts, tailored dark-wash denim, and classic leather sneakers form three timeless foundation pieces. Trending pieces can then be layered onto the base, rounding out the wardrobe for a complementary, modern, updated style.”

When building an essential wardrobe, start with a few timeless pieces that provide versatility, polish, and ease. Every gentleman should start with a classic suit in either navy or charcoal grey, a crisp white and a small, patterned dress shirt, a refined tie and a pocket square. Shoes such as a well-made cap toe oxford in cognac and a coordinating belt can work with almost any suit or sport coat and pair of trousers. From there, add versatile casual staples like dark denim, tailored five-pocket trousers, polos and quality tees, and knitwear such as merino or alpaca sweaters in different styles. A tailored overcoat, and leather gloves round out a wardrobe that transitions seamlessly across seasons and occasions.

“I just got back from a style show in Chicago, and we’re already seeing the styles that will be trending for later this year and beyond,” comments Petteruti.

Following are five “ins and outs” of a stylish essential wardrobe for men in 2026:

1. LAYERS: Vests continue to dominate the layering look. They are a versatile and incredibly sophisticated addition to any wardrobe, worn under a coat or as a piece of outerwear. Think linen, cotton, quilted or woven fabrics in both solid colors and subtle patterns.

2. FOOTWEAR: Stylish loafers or minimalist leather sneakers are the trend, but it’s important to know when to wear the right one. “Personally, I dislike the white trainer with a suit, regardless of how young or good looking the guy may be,” adds Petteruti.

3. SPORTCOATS: Sport coats can be worn casually with denim and trainer shoes, or with a turtleneck and wool trousers for sophistication. Tailoring is key. Not quite as slim as before, but still a tailored fit is in. It’s acceptable to

go unstructured with the linen blends for a slightly more comfortable feel in hot summer weather.

4.COLORS/PATTERNS: Earth tones are big, such as olive, rust and deep navy. Pastels are in for spring and summer. Along with earth tones, lots of purple and burgundy are in for fall and winter 2026. Subtle fabric textures like Birdseye or hopsack are popular in wool blends. For patterns, think muted plaids or windowpanes.

5.TROUSERS:  These are a bit fuller with side buckle and tab, and some have a side piece of elastic for comfort. “We are seeing the single reverse pleat in a lot of trousers, including denim,” Petteruti notes. “Out is the superskinny and high-water look. Europeans are wearing a lot of boxier, double-breasted coats with high-waisted, wider leg, pleated pants so this trend is making its way to America.”

Since its founding in 2020, Roaring Fashions has helped men look and feel their best.

“Shopping is not a fun task for most men, so I try to make it enjoyable,” Petteruti states. “I curate wardrobes individually picked out for their style. As trends evolve, it may be hard for them to keep up. We are timeless. Style is forever, and trends are transient. We also focus on fit because it doesn’t matter how expensive clothing is, if it doesn’t fit it just won’t look good. When you feel good about the way you look, it’s contagious.”

An updated, complete “Men’s Wardrobe Essentials” guide is available in PDF form upon request by emailing Cheryl@ RoaringFashions.com.

Roaring Fashions, a member of the East Greenwich Chamber of Commerce, Rhode Island Wedding Group, and Custom Tailors & Designers Association of America, is open by appointment Monday through Saturday. For more information and hours, call  (401) 241-4111 or visit www.RoaringFashions.com.

Established in 2020, Roaring Fashions is a men’s fine clothing wardrobe retailer and stylist based in Rhode Island. The luxury boutique helps discerning clientele build a personalized wardrobe of custom-tailored suits, made-to-measure attire, and readyto-wear garments with the guidance of a skilled clothier who understands the art of style. From professional, evening and casual attire to wedding and athleisure wear, Roaring Fashions curates wardrobes that reflect men’s unique style, complement their physique, and fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. The company maintains a Studio at 7 Overbrook Lane in East Greenwich, R.I. and is open by appointment only Monday through Saturday. Web: https://www.roaringfashions.com; Phone: (401) 241-4111.

Joseph Baptista, President

RICCO’s Spring Concert

Brings Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms to Providence

By: Mark Berger

3pm Sunday, May 31 at Temple Beth-El

Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms will anchor the Rhode Island Civic Chorale & Orchestra’s (RICCO) spring concert on Sunday, May 31 at 3:00 p.m. at Temple Beth-El in Providence, in a program exploring Jewish musical traditions across centuries.

The concert weaves Renaissance, contemporary, and instrumental works into a single narrative experience –one that Music Director Joshua Rohde describes as both a departure and a natural extension of RICCO’s mission. “We’re taking elements of a traditional Jewish worship service and presenting them in a way that feels universal,” Rohde said. “Regardless of whether you’re familiar with the texts or not, there’s a message here that anyone can connect to.”

The program opens with music by Renaissance composer Solomon Rossi, whose rarely performed settings of Hebrew texts offer audiences a chance to hear familiar choral textures in an unexpected language. It continues with contemporary works, including Alex Berko’s Sacred Place, which draws on the structure of a worship service while reimagining it through poetry and reflection.

“What made this program click,” Rohde said, “was realizing that Berko’s piece could serve as a kind of scaffolding – these moments of reflection, mourning, and connection that we can all relate to.”

Instrumental works, including Ernest Bloch’s Kol Nidrei for solo cello, further expand the program’s emotional range, leading into Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, a work that blends Hebrew text with a musical language

that often feels closer to Broadway than the concert hall. “There’s an accessibility to Bernstein,” Rohde said. “You can hear echoes of West Side Story – that rhythmic energy, that lyricism – which gives audiences a way in.” Composed in the 1960s, Chichester Psalms reflects Bernstein’s response to a turbulent era, setting texts that speak to a shared humanity. “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity,” Rohde noted. “That idea feels just as relevant today.”

For longtime RICCO audiences, the concert offers familiar hallmarks – high-quality performance and a curated experience – while introducing music many may not have heard before. “There will be a lot that feels familiar,” Rohde said. “But I think the surprises will be the pieces people discover along the way.”

For those new to RICCO, the invitation is simple: “It’s going to be a really powerful, really beautiful afternoon – and we’re only doing it once.” Tickets are available at www.ricco.org and at the door.

The Power of Partnership: Why Businesses are Switching to ABS

In the fast-paced world of modern business, technology should be an accelerator, not a speed bump. Yet, for many organizations, managing office print, IT infrastructure, and document workflows feels like a second full-time job.

Since 1992, Automated Business Solutions (ABS) has been changing that narrative. What started with a vision by Alan Albergaria and Robert Maceroni to provide trusted office solutions has grown into a New England powerhouse. But despite our growth—now serving over 4,000 partners across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut—our core philosophy remains unchanged: We aren’t just a vendor; we are your partner.

Your Strategic One-Stop Shop

In an era where businesses are forced to juggle five different contracts for five different services, ABS offers a breath of fresh air. We have evolved into a true onestop shop for the modern office. By consolidating your essential services under one roof, we eliminate the “finger-pointing” that often happens between different providers.

We provide a seamless, integrated approach to:

• Office Equipment: Cutting-edge hardware tailored to your volume and needs.

• Print Management: Optimizing your output to reduce costs and waste.

• IT Services: Proactive, 24/7 management of your network, security, and cloud infrastructure. Innovation Beyond the Copier

While we are leaders in print, we have grown far beyond the traditional “copier company” label. ABS is at the forefront of specialized technology designed to solve unique industry challenges.

We are proud to offer diverse solutions including:

• Digital Signage: Transforming how you communicate with your customers and staff.

• Banking & Retail Solutions: From high-speed check scanners to rugged receipt printers, we keep the gears of commerce turning.

• Lexmark Translation Software: A game-changer for our Housing Authority partners, allowing for seamless communication across language barriers and ensuring every community member is heard.

The “Vendor” vs. “Partner” Difference

Most companies have “vendors”—entities that drop off a machine, send an invoice, and vanish until something breaks. At ABS, we find that model outdated and ineffective.

A partner is someone who sits on the same side of the table as you. When we step into a new office, we don’t lead with a sales pitch; we lead with an evaluation. We work with you from start to finish, looking at your workflow, your security risks, and your pain points. Our goal isn’t just to provide a service; it’s to build a longterm roadmap that increases your profitability and efficiency.

Why Switching to ABS is Easier Than You Think

One of the biggest hurdles businesses face when upgrading their technology is the fear of “the switch.” The dread of downtime or a steep learning curve often keeps companies tethered to old, inefficient systems.

At ABS, we have perfected the “Easy Switch” process. We take the heavy lifting off your plate:

• The Blueprint: We handle the entire configuration and professional installation of your new systems.

• The Transition: Our team works around your schedule to ensure zero-to-minimal disruption to your daily operations.

• The Support: We don’t just install and leave. We provide comprehensive employee training so your team feels confident with their new tools from day one.

Standing by Our Community and Our Customers

Our roots are deep in New England. With offices in Warwick, Southington, Marlborough, and beyond, we aren’t a faceless national corporation. We are your neighbors.

Our commitment to the community is reflected in how we treat our customers. When you call ABS, you aren’t routed to a global call center; you’re talking to local experts who care about your success. Whether it’s through our comprehensive IT Services or our award-winning Sharp Platinum Level support, we stand by our clients through every challenge.

A Vision for April and Beyond

As we look forward to the rest of the year, our focus remains on providing “Added-Value Solutions.” From proactive cybersecurity to managed print, ABS is here to ensure your technology works as hard as you do.

If you’re tired of being treated like an account number by your current provider, it’s time to experience the ABS difference. Join the 4,000+ New England businesses that have found a partner they can trust. Call us for your evaluation today! 401-732-3000

over 70 years Esten & Richard has been helping clients

“Our goal is to continue to provide our customers with the best insurance coverage and service possible in order to protect their assets and therefore to secure their financial well-being, “ advised Frank Richard, President of the Esten & Richard Agency. “Partnering with World Insurance Associates will further strengthen our ability to do so.”

Seize the opportunity to own a lucrative Auto Body and Used Car Sales business. This well-established auto body and used car sales business is located at 620 Pond Street in Woonsocket, at the confluence of Pond and Winter Streets. This property enjoys solid exposure to all traffic. The business is situated on a 7,405 square-foot lot, including two buildings for a total of 3,248 square feet of the building and ample space for up to 10+/- vehicles, plus all the necessary equipment to run a successful auto-body and used car business. This turnkey opportunity allows you to enter a thriving cash flow positive enterprise with existing clientele and dedicated space for up to 10+/- vehicles. Whether you are an experienced player in the auto-body business or an entrepreneur with a passion for vehicles, this opportunity caters to individuals who want to take the reins of a successful, positive cash flow, auto body and used car sales business and grow!

Ask An Expert

The Pros & Cons of Solar

My name is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) & I’m honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis.

I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call 401-270-2664.

Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!

Solar energy for our homes has been something that we have all heard about for years and in certain time periods the concept of solar seems to be more prevalent in the news than others, but all the while becoming increasingly popular!

Whether a politician passionately speaking for or against it as a means of alternative energy or the super enticing incentives that may occasionally be available through a variety of local, regional, and national programs, solar can definitely get one thinking about the potential benefits of incorporating it into use for their home.

As with anything, there are pros and cons to making the leap and going ‘all in’ on solar.

Pros of Solar Energy

One of the biggest benefits of solar energy is saving money. When you produce electricity from the sun, you use less power from the electric company. Your monthly electric bills go down, and sometimes you even make extra electricity that gets sent back to ‘the grid’. Some people receive credits or get paid for the extra power they produce.

Another great advantage is that solar energy is good for the environment. Solar panels do not release harmful gases or pollution into the air. Using clean energy helps reduce climate change and keeps the air cleaner for everyone. It’s a great choice for people who care about protecting the planet.

Solar power can also increase the value of your home. Many buyers like the idea of lower electric bills. A home with solar panels can sometimes sell faster and for more money. Even if you are not planning to move soon, it’s nice to know that your investment might pay off later. Once the panels are installed, they are usually easy to maintain. Solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years and do not require much cleaning or fixing. Most systems come with warranties, so if anything goes wrong, it is often covered.

Installing solar also gives you more energy independence. You are less affected by rising electricity costs. If power

outages happen in your area, a solar system with a battery can help keep your lights on.

Cons of Solar Energy

Even though solar energy has many benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider. The biggest downside is the cost of installation. Solar panels and the equipment they require can be very expensive upfront. Some families simply may not be able to afford the cost, even if there happen to be tax credits or payment plans available.

Another drawback is that solar panels only work well when there is sunlight. If you live in a place with lots of cloudy days or long winters, solar may not produce as much energy as you need. During nighttime, you have to use power from the electric company unless you buy a battery system, which adds more cost.

Solar panels take up space, usually on your roof. If your roof is old, small, or shaded by trees, you might not have enough room for a good solar system. Some people also do not like how the panels look. They may feel that the panels change the appearance of their home in a way they do not like.

There are also maintenance and repair costs, although they are usually small. You may need to clean the panels if dust or snow covers them. If something breaks after the warranty ends, it could be expensive to fix.

Not all homes have good conditions for solar. If your roof faces the wrong direction or is not strong enough, installing panels might not be possible without making other changes first.

Solar energy has many clear benefits – potential money savings, helping the environment, and increasing your home’s value as the most notable. It also gives you more control over your power use - though the high upfront cost, limited power during cloudy days or at night, and possible roof space challenges are important drawbacks to think about.

Overall, solar power is a great option for many families, but it may not be the right choice for everyone. Be sure to carefully weigh these pros and cons before deciding if solar energy may be worth it for your home!

About Tom Lopatosky

Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both the PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly PROTalk Home Improvement Radio Show! Tom has also written a book ‘The Care And Maintenance Of A New England Home’ (available on Amazon or through Barnes & Noble), detailing what he believes every New England Homeowner should be acutely aware of while owning a home in the region.

Elevate Your Career Comes to Cranston

by Mark Berger

Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, a statewide, non-profit organization which invests in women and girls, will be hosting its annual Elevate Your Career, on April 8th at Alpine Country Club in Cranston.

This event runs from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 PM. It features panel discussions from industry experts, professionals in the field, and chances to enhance networks. The program strives to help businesses connect with like-minded professionals understand what is happening that impacts the market.

Chief Executive Officer Kelly Nevins said the program is designed to give attendees practical insight from women who have navigated different career paths and overcome real challenges along the way. Whether someone is just entering the workforce or considering a career change, Elevate Your Career offers the opportunity to learn directly from experienced leaders, ask questions, and gain strategies that can help shape their next professional step.

“Women often tell us they wish they had more opportunities to hear how other women actually built their careers; what worked, what didn’t, and what they would do differently,” Nevins said. “Elevate Your Career creates that space. It’s a chance to learn from 20 women who have navigated challenges, built successful careers, and are willing to share what they’ve learned so others can move forward with greater confidence.”

Panel discussions featuring experienced career coaches sharing guidance, trends, and real-world advice; industryspecific table conversations led by career coachesdesigned to spark authentic dialogue; intentionally mixed seating to ensure you meet new people and grow your network; opportunities to connect with all the attendees and expand your professional reach.

At the event, 20 women business leaders from industries across RI will act as mentors/coaches during tabletop discussions. Some notable coaches include: Karina Holyoak-Wood from 10,000 Small Businesses, Kim Barker from Bally’s, Janie Segui-Rodriguez from Stop the Wait RI, Deborah Viveros from Webster Bank, and Christine Wright from Blue Cross & Blue Shield RI.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for companies that want to “Elevate” their visibility at this event. Each level has increasing amenities and perks. Women’s Fund of Rhode Island appreciates the continued support of its benefactors.

Chief Strategic Relationship Officer Debra Honor said business owners are stepping up to show their support for the program and for the Fund. Their contributions enable WFRI to continue its mission and push forward either its initiatives and programs. She said allowing for this gives everyone something to benefit from.

“The ability to share your story with others can be the gateway to unlocking new partnerships,” Honor said. “Showing support in the community is another positive factor toward supporting causes such as this one. Give sponsorships a chance to open doors that are not always available.”

Sponsors who are on board include:

Equity Partner: Landmark Medical Center.

Champion Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island.

Visionary Sponsors: COX Communications, Navigant Credit Union, Tori Lynn Andreozzi Foundation, and URI Insurance Services.

Ally Sponsors: D.F. Pray General Contractors and Webster Bank.

Advocate Sponsors: Bristol County Savings, Hinckley Allen, Starkweather & Shipley Insurance Brokerage, Inc.

Supporters Circle: City Personnel, Inc., CompLyons HR Consulting LLC, Human Interest, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island.

WFRI is honoring Blue Cross and Blue Shield RI, as well as

The Academy Players, for strategies related to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA), as the event.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island partners with results-oriented nonprofits to address critical health issues facing Rhode Islanders. As a local, tax-paying nonprofit health plan, they strive to serve their members, customers, and the community.

According to its website, BCBSRI’s vision guides then in improving the health and well-being of Rhode Islanders by leading access to high quality, affordable, and equitable care. It’s why they invest more than $1 million each year in Rhode Island nonprofit organizations that help improve the health of the community. Their aim is to fund organizations and initiatives supporting the many drivers of health, and for our philanthropic purposes, anchored on two key pillars: access to healthcare and social determinants of health.

The mission of the Academy Players of RI is to foster and encourage the development of, and commitment to, the highest standards of community theatres including excellence in production, management, governance, community relations and services all while contributing to the Rhode Island community through raising funds and awareness for different charitable organizations.

Several other local organizations and companies are also lending their assistance for this event. Honor said there is still time to be added to this growing list of sponsors.

“There is plenty of good that comes with sponsoring a program such as Elevate Your Career. Besides aiding a great cause and organization, you get additional visibility for your business and get to connect with many other professionals. It’s a victory for all involved,” Honor said.

Attendees should bring their business cards! This isn’t just a networking event- it’s an energizing, empowering experience designed to elevate you.

More details regarding this event may be obtained by contacting Debra to dhonor@wfri.org.

The Women’s Fund of Rhode Island (WFRI) is a Providence-based non-profit organization dedicated to advancing gender equity through systemic change, research, strategic grant-making, and advocacy. Established in 2000, it focuses on closing gender, wage, and power gaps for women and girls in Rhode Island.

More details about the organization and to purchase tickets for Elevate Your Career and other WFRI events may be found by visiting their website at wfri.org.

Celebrating 34 years in business!

STATE THE FACTS...

1 out of every 8 Americans have been employed by McDonald’s at some point.

For over 70 years Esten & Richard has been helping clients with their insurance needs. They provide all types of Business and Personal insurance programs.

Rhode Island Trivia

“Our goal is to continue to provide our customers with the best insurance coverage and service possible in order to protect their assets and therefore to secure their financial well-being, “ advised Frank Richard, President of the Esten & Richard Agency. “Partnering with World Insurance Associates will further strengthen our ability to do so.”

Rhode Island History

The United States has a town called Whittier where nearly all residents live in a single building.

Apple has more money than the U.S. Treasury.

Maine is the only state with a one-syllable name.

PROVIDING

The Cogswell Tower in Central Falls was the site of an Indian observation point in use during King Phillips War in 1676. The tower was built in 1904 as part of the last will and testament of Caroline Cogswell.

In Montana, cows out number people 3 to 1.

The Cogswell Tower in Central Falls was the site of an Indian observation point in use during King Phillips War in 1676. The tower was built in 1904 as part of the last will and testament of Caroline Cogswell.

The Alaska Purchase was originally mocked as “Seward’s Folly.”

Though most Americans speak English, we have no official national language.

Rhode Island never ratified the 18th Amendment prohibition.

Rhode Island never ratified the 18th Amendment prohibition.

The Hoover Dam is so massive it slightly affects Earth’s rotation.

Judge Darius Baker imposed the first jail sentence for speeding in an automobile on August 28, 1904 in Newport.

Medical errors are the 6th leading cause of death in the US.

Montana has three times more cows than people.

Polo was played for the first time in the United States in 1876 near Newport.

Judge Darius Baker imposed the first jail sentence for speeding in an automobile on August 28, 1904 in Newport.

Virginia has birthed more presidents than any other state.

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world.

Rhode Island was home to the first National Lawn Tennis Championship (the precursor to the U.S. Open) in 1881. It was held at the Newport Casino.

27% of Americans don’t believe we landed on the moon.

Rhode Island was the last of the original thirteen colonies to become a state.

New Mexico has an official state question: “Red or green?” (referring to chili).

If you have $10 in your pocket and no debt, you are wealthier than 25% of Americans.

The White Horse Tavern was built in 1673 and is the oldest operating tavern in the United States.

Utah is home to one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth, the Great Salt Lake.

100 acres of pizza are served in the US every day.

St. Mary’s, Rhode Island’s oldest Roman Catholic parish was founded in 1828. The church is best known as the site of the wedding of Jacqueline Bouvier to John Fitzgerald Kennedy in 1953.

The Appalachian Trail stretches over 2,000 miles across 14 states.

Rhode Island Red Monument in Adamsville pays homage to the world-famous poultry breed.

Americans spend roughly 4.4 years of their life at each of their jobs.

The state was home to the first open golf tournament. The event occurred in 1895.

Wyoming was the first to grant women the right to vote (1869).

Rhode Island founder Roger Williams established the First Baptist Church in America in 1638. The existing structure was built in 1775.

The Library of Congress is keeping an archive of every tweet ever tweeted.

The first circus in the United States was in Newport in 1774.

Pennsylvania is home to the longest stone arch bridge in the world.

Ann and Hope was the first discount department store in the United States the property was opened in Rhode Island.

22 million chickens are consumed in the US every day.

Settled in 1642 Pawtuxet Village in Warwick lays claim to being New England’s oldest village.

1 out every 3 Americans is obese.

The Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the U.S. overnight.

George M. Cohan was born in Providence in 1878. He wrote, “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy,” “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” and a wide variety of other musical entertainment.

Portsmouth is home to the oldest schoolhouse in the United States. The school was built in 1716.

The White Horse Tavern in Rhode Island was built in 1673 and is the oldest operating tavern in the United States.

Arizona doesn’t observe daylight saving time (except part of the Navajo Nation).

Since 1785 Bristol has the longest running, unbroken series of 4th of July Independence Day observances in the country.

Rhode Islanders were the first to take military action against England by sinking one of her ships in the Narragansett Bay located between Newport and Providence. The English ship was called “The Gaspee”.

North Dakota has fewer people than most major U.S. cities.

Idaho produces about one-third of all potatoes grown in the U.S.

Meet The Dream Team Carmine DeLuca - Crum Relocation

Each month, Shop in RI Magazine profiles one member of “The Dream Team,” a weekly networking group that meets in Smithfield. This month, we feature Carmine DeLuca of Crum Relocation in Cranston.

As Business Development Manager at Crum Relocation, Carmine has been with the company for several months, though his relationship with owner Brian Crum spans decades. He says the opportunity to work together came naturally, and their partnership has played a key role in the company’s continued growth. Together, they focus on providing highquality residential and commercial moving services throughout Southern New England — work Carmine says the company takes great pride in.

“At Crum Relocation, we believe moving is about more than just transporting boxes,” Carmine explained. “It’s about trust, transparency, and professionalism from start to finish. With more than 35 years of industry experience, owner Brian Crum — also a retired police officer, remains directly involved to ensure every home and business is treated with care and respect.”

Based in Smithfield, RI, Crum Relocation specializes in both residential and commercial moves. Residential services are customized for individuals and families relocating locally or to anywhere on the East Coast, while commercial services are designed to move offices, retail spaces, and corporate facilities efficiently and with minimal disruption.

The company also offers professional packing and unpacking services, helping clients transition into their new space quickly and comfortably.

Crum Relocation provides long-distance moving services throughout the east coast of the United

States, with routes carefully planned and monitored to ensure timely, secure delivery. Recent investments in upgraded equipment and fleet improvements further enhance reliability and customer confidence.

A lifelong Rhode Island resident, Carmine has lived and worked in the state his entire life. Cranston has long been home, where he lives with his wife, daughter, and Coco — the family’s Maltese and selfproclaimed ruler of the household.

For more information or to schedule a free evaluation and estimate, contact Carmine at 401-450-4659 or Carmine@CrumRelo.com.

“The Dream Team” currently has 40 members and growing. They meet every Wednesday morning from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM at the Home2Suites Hilton on Douglas Pike in Smithfield, across from Laura’s Bar and Grill. The group is looking to grow its team and is interested in meeting professionals from various businesses looking to connect and help each other grow through referral business. Dream Team is all about, “Friends helping Friends.”

Further information about the group may be found by contacting either:

President Rocco Elgar 401-265-0857 therockhbi@msn.com

Vice President Tim Richard 401-766-4200

The Law of Momentum and The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence:

By Alicia J. Alexander

Alicia J. Alexander, MSL, is the Founder of Make A Difference Consulting in Pawtucket, RI. As an Organizational Appreciation Expert and a Certified Facilitator of The 5 Languages of Appreciation In The Workplace, she specializes in promoting Authentic Appreciation and harmonious work cultures. Ms. Alexander is a published author on the topic of Organizational Development and Change. She holds a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and she is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis on Organizational Development (qualitative research).

In every thriving organization, there is an invisible force that separates stagnant companies from those that continuously grow, innovate, and lead their industries. That force is momentum. When leaders understand how to build and sustain momentum, transformation accelerates, teams align, and organizations move forward with clarity and purpose.

The leadership principle known as the Law of Momentum explains that consistent action, reinforced by strategic leadership, creates accelerating progress over time. Once momentum begins, success compounds. Resistance diminishes, confidence grows, and the organization moves forward with greater speed and effectiveness.

For leaders seeking sustainable impact, the Law of Momentum aligns naturally with The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence, the leadership framework developed by Alicia J. Alexander, MSL, Founder and Executive Business Coach of Make A Difference Consulting. Together, these principles create a structured pathway for leaders to transform workplace culture, strengthen leadership capacity, and generate measurable results.

Understanding this alignment allows executives and business owners to move beyond isolated initiatives and instead create a leadership ecosystem that produces sustained organizational excellence.

Momentum Begins with Leadership Clarity

Momentum rarely begins by accident. It begins with leadership vision.

Organizations often stall because leaders attempt to introduce change without establishing a coherent leadership philosophy. Employees sense inconsistency,

initiatives lose traction, and progress slows.

The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence provide the leadership infrastructure necessary to initiate momentum. By addressing both the neurological and relational dimensions of leadership, the framework ensures that transformation occurs not only in strategy but also in behavior, culture, and trust.

When leaders align their actions with The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence, they create the conditions required for sustained progress.

Neuroleadership: Activating Strategic Thinking

Momentum begins in the mind of the leader.

Neuroleadership focuses on how leaders use insights from neuroscience to improve decision making, emotional regulation, and cognitive clarity. Leaders who understand how the brain responds to stress, uncertainty, and change are better equipped to guide teams through transformation. When executives communicate with clarity, reduce unnecessary cognitive overload, and provide direction during uncertainty, they activate the psychological safety necessary for innovation and progress.

This pillar initiates momentum because people move faster when they understand the direction and believe in the leadership guiding them forward.

Neuromanagement: Creating Systems that Sustain Progress

Once leadership clarity is shown, systems must reinforce the direction.

Neuromanagement focuses on how leaders design environments that align with how the human brain performs best. High-performing organizations structure communication, decision-making processes, and accountability systems in ways that support productivity rather than hinder it.

Without effective management systems, even the strongest leadership vision will struggle to gain traction.

Neuromanagement converts vision into execution. It provides the operational framework that allows momentum to build, ensuring that teams move forward with consistency rather than confusion.

Authentic Appreciation: Fueling Engagement and Energy

Momentum accelerates when people feel valued.

Authentic Appreciation focuses on recognizing the unique contributions of individuals within an organization. Unlike generic recognition programs, authentic appreciation requires leaders to understand how different individuals experience appreciation and motivation.

Employees who feel genuinely valued demonstrate higher levels of engagement, creativity, and collaboration. They contribute discretionary effort and become advocates for the organization’s mission.

In this way, appreciation becomes a catalyst for momentum. It energizes teams and reinforces the behaviors that drive organizational success.

Workplace Forgiveness: Removing Barriers to Progress

Every organization encounters mistakes, misunderstandings, and conflict. When these issues remain unresolved, they silently drain energy from the workplace.

Workplace Forgiveness addresses one of the most overlooked barriers to organizational momentum: unresolved relational tension. Forgiveness in a professional context does not mean ignoring accountability. Instead, it allows leaders and teams to acknowledge mistakes, learn from them, and move forward without carrying the emotional weight of past conflicts.

Organizations that cultivate forgiveness create environments where innovation thrives because employees feel safe to take calculated risks. When people are not trapped in cycles of blame or resentment, progress accelerates. Momentum requires forward movement, and forgiveness removes the emotional obstacles that prevent it.

Organizational Trust: The Foundation of Sustained Momentum

The final pillar, Organizational Trust, anchors the entire framework.

Trust is the currency of leadership. Without it, initiatives falter, collaboration weakens, and progress slows. With it, teams align quickly and move forward with confidence. Trust grows when leaders demonstrate consistency between words and actions. It strengthens when organizations communicate transparently and when leaders honor commitments.

When trust becomes embedded within organizational culture, momentum no longer depends solely on leadership directives. Instead, it becomes a collective force driven by shared purpose and mutual respect. Organizational Trust transforms momentum from a temporary surge into a sustainable organizational capability.

When Momentum and Leadership Excellence Align

When the Law of Momentum intersects with The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence, organizations experience a powerful shift.

• Leaders gain clarity in decision making.

• Teams develop stronger collaboration and engagement.

• Workplace culture becomes healthier and more resilient.

• Strategic initiatives move forward with increased speed and alignment.

Momentum is no longer accidental. It becomes intentional. The result is an organization capable of adapting, innovating, and thriving in an ever-changing business environment.

A Call to Leaders Ready to Create Organizational Excellence

Today’s business landscape demands more than traditional management. It requires leaders who understand how to cultivate trust, engage people authentically, and design systems that sustain progress.

If you are a business owner, executive leader, or organizational decision-maker seeking to elevate your organization’s performance, now is the time to build momentum that lasts.

Through keynote presentations, executive coaching, and organizational consulting, Make A Difference Consulting equips leaders with the tools and strategies needed to implement The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence within their organizations.

Under the leadership of Alicia J. Alexander, MSL, Founder and Executive Business Coach, organizations gain researchinformed leadership strategies that transform workplace culture, strengthen leadership capability, and produce measurable results.

The future of your organization depends on the leadership momentum you create today.

To explore how The 5 Pillars of Organizational Excellence can accelerate your organization’s growth and leadership impact, connect with Alicia J. Alexander, MSL.

Make A Difference Consulting Mobile: 401-601-3207

Email: Alicia@MakeADifferenceConsulting.com

SPRING INTO SAVINGS!

By Mark Berger

Toyota of Smithfield, located on George Washington Highway near the Lincoln/Smithfield town line, offers new and certified pre-owned vehicles to satisfy your car or truck needs.

Regardless of why anyone purchases a new vehicle, Toyota’s staff ensures the car-buying process happens smoothly.

General Manager John Durrani said anyone buying their next vehicle should contact its award-winning Sales Department to uncover dealer incentives.

“Anyone who either trades in their used or certified, pre-owned cars, will get an additional $1,000 over book value,” Durrani said. “There isn’t a better time for anyone to trade in their cars. Your trade is worth more than it ever has before, and it’s worth more now than it will ever be worth.”

For vehicle owners and leasers, customers should schedule time with their award-winning Service Department. The staff diagnoses and repairs small issues before they turn into bigger ones.

Durrani also encourages customers to trade in their used cars. He said there are several Toyota incentives to put them into a new vehicle right now.

“We want the public to drive in with their used vehicles. We need more inventory to fulfill orders,” he said.

To help facilitate their need for additional certified, pre-owned vehicles, Toyota of Smithfield also offers 115% of its book value for any used cars. It doesn’t matter if customers buy from them.

“We will purchase your trade-in, even if you don’t buy one from us,” he added.

The dealership holds a monthly private sale. This month’s event is scheduled for Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM, by appointment only. Patrons will have exclusive access to their inventory. Managers will be there to answer questions and offer additional incentives.

The Dealership’s Peace of Mind Purchase Process (or P❤M) means no hassles over pricing, trade-in values, cash back and rebate incentives offered up front and the best available leasing and financing terms up front. Durrani said this is just part of the all-around, customer-driven experience he implemented to ensure the process does not get bogged down in miscommunication.

Schedule an appointment today by calling them 401-723-0962 or on their website at www.toyotaofsmithfield.com.

What’s Up With That?

Humans share about 50% of their DNA with bananas. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Octopuses have three hearts, and two stop beating when they swim.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Wood frogs freeze solid in winter and thaw in spring with no harm.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

A day used to be 22 hours – Millions of years ago, Earth rotated faster.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Honey never spoils; archaeologists have found 3,000-year-old edible honey in Egyptian tombs. WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Saturn rains diamonds – Extreme pressure on Saturn and Jupiter can compress carbon into diamond rain.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Lake Natron in Tanzania can turn animals into statues – Its alkaline waters calcify creatures.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

The Eiffel Tower grows in summer – Iron expands in heat, adding up to 6 inches.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

There’s a desert in Antarctica – The largest desert on Earth isn’t hot, it’s freezing.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Some people can remember everything –Hyperthymesia allows near-perfect recall of every day of their life.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Introducing Ms. Corporate America and Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America: Where Leadership, Legacy, and Brilliance Unite

By: Alicia J Alexander, MSL

Across the United States, women are transforming the face of leadership, shaping industries, strengthening communities, and redefining what it means to lead with both purpose and passion. The Ms. Corporate America (MCA) Organization proudly stands at the forefront of this transformation, celebrating accomplished women who exemplify excellence, community service, and authentic leadership.

Ms. Corporate America is not just a pageant; it is a national platform of empowerment designed to recognize professional women who lead with integrity, compassion, and innovation. From corporate executives and government officials to entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare administrators, and non-profit leaders, MCA honors women who have achieved professional success while making a meaningful difference in their communities.

The Pathway to the National Stage: Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America

The journey to the national crown begins at the state level, where inspiring women compete for the opportunity to represent their state at the national competition. Among these, the Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America pageant stands as a beacon of leadership and empowerment for women across the Ocean State.

The upcoming Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America Pageant is scheduled for April 25, 2026, in Providence, Rhode Island, a prestigious event that will highlight the brilliance, confidence, and purpose of Rhode Island’s most accomplished women. Contestants must be natural-born females between the ages of 30 and 65, reside in the United States or its territories, possess a minimum of five years of professional experience,

and demonstrate at least two years of community service involvement.

Contestants may come from every sector of society: corporate professionals, small business owners, C-suite executives, healthcare leaders, educators, government officials, nonprofit advocates, and military personnel, each demonstrating that success is best measured by the positive impact one leaves behind.

A Platform of Purpose, Visibility, and Legacy

Ms. Corporate America is more than a title: it is a transformational experience. Through leadership training, media exposure, public speaking, and community engagement, MCA equips each participant to expand her influence, amplify her voice, and create lasting change. Winners at both the state and national levels become ambassadors of leadership excellence and empowerment, representing the power of perseverance, professionalism, and purposedriven service.

The Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America winner will advance to the national Ms. Corporate America Pageant, representing the state with pride and carrying forward the mission of celebrating women whose brilliance illuminates boardrooms, communities, and beyond.

A Message from the Madame President

Under the leadership of Ms. Alicia J. Alexander, MSL, Founder and Chief Consultant of Make A Difference Consulting, the Rhode Island pageant enters an exciting new chapter. As Madame President for Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America, Ms. Alicia J Alexander, MSL, brings her extensive experience in leadership development, organizational excellence, and women’s empowerment to this prestigious role.

Her mission is clear: to create a platform that honors women who make a difference in their organizations, their communities, and their world.

Call to Action

If you are a woman of excellence, purpose, and service, or if you know someone who embodies these qualities, now is the time to step forward.

Join the movement and be part of the 2026 Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America Pageant.

Event Date: April 25, 2026

Location: Providence, Rhode Island

Learn more or submit your nomination today at: www.mscorporateamerica.com

Empower. Inspire. Lead.

With Ms. Alicia J. Alexander, MSL, as Madame President, the Ms. Rhode Island Corporate America Pageant celebrates every woman’s brilliance and her power to make a difference.