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Thursday, October 29, 2020

CRANSTON’S CHOICE: Above, the candidates for mayor, Republican Ken Hopkins and Democrat Maria Bucci, share a moment while campaigning outside City Hall on Tuesday. Below at right, the early voting line stretches around City Hall. As of Monday, 5,170 Cranston voters had cast ballots early and in person. (Herald photos by John Howell)

Home stretch

Early voting numbers surge in Cranston, across RI By DANIEL KITTREDGE Cranston voters are well on course for a significant, and potentially historic, turnout in the Nov. 3 general election. As of Monday, roughly a quarter of the city’s voters – 14,099 – had already cast ballots, according to figures from the Secretary of State’s office. The figure represents approximately 40 percent of the total ballots cast in the 2016 general election. The majority of the Cranston ballots cast as of Mon-

day, 8,929, were mail ballots received and scanned by the Board of Elections. Another 5,170 city residents voted early and in person at City Hall. Between the start of the early in-person voting period on Oct. 14 and the end-of-day figures from Monday, the city saw average of 574 early voters each day. That peaked on Monday, with 716 early votes cast. Statewide, 201,711 people had already voted as of Monday, representing turnout of nearly 25 percent.

CAMPAIGN - PAGE 12

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City’s library system earns national honors By DANIEL KITTREDGE

MAJOR RESPONSE: Police and emergency vehicles from Cranston, Warwick, Providence and Rhode Island State Police fill the intersection of Elmwood and Park avenues on the night of Oct. 21. (Herald photo)

Winquist: Police showed ‘professionalism, great restraint’ in protest response By DANIEL KITTREDGE It was a scene largely uncommon in Cranston, with police and emergency vehicles gathered en masse at a major intersection, lights flashing, onlookers gathered in pockets around the perimeter. There was no fire or major accident, which are the typical causes for such a large congregation of public safety personnel. Instead, the scene emerged after Cranston Police chose to effectively block entrance into the city from the Providence line on Elmwood Avenue on the night of

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ELMWOOD - PAGE 15

Vol. 96 No. 29

Cranston Chatter

- INDEX -

By By MERI R. KENNEDY

Classified . . . . . . . . . . 34 Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . 9 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Focus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Oct. 21 – a response Chief of Police Col. Michael Winquist this week said was needed to prevent an influx of dangerous activity involving ATVs, dirt bikes and other vehicles onto local streets. “The residents of Cranston and the business owners were extremely complimentary” in the days since, Winquist said, going on to praise the department’s personnel for their “professionalism and great restraint” in the face of a “chaotic situation.” The roots of last Wednesday’s activity at

9147400008

Children’s Trunk or Treat event at the Y On Friday, Oct. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m., the Cranston YMCA, located at 1225 Park Ave., will be hosting a drive-thru Trunk or Treat event for local families. It will be safe, it will be socially distant, but most importantly it will be fun. For more information and to register, visit gpymca. formstack.com/forms/halloween.

CHATTER - PAGE 9

The city’s public library system has received national recognition for its role as a “vital community asset.” The Gerald M. Kline Family Foundation and Library Journal recently announced the Cranston Public Library is the winner of the second annual Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize, which carries a $250,000 financial award and a feature in Library Journal’s November 2020 edition. Ed Garcia, director of the Cranston Public Library, said Monday the hope is to place the financial award into an investment account through the nonprofit Cranston Public Library Association “almost to create an endowment so that we always have money to do innovative programs and ideas.” That plan still needs to be finalized with the CPLA and the library’s Board of Trustees. “We are honored to be selected for the Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize,” Garcia said in a statement. “I am so proud of the hard

‘VITAL COMMUNITY ASSET’: Cranston Public Library Director Ed Garcia and his staff have been honored with the second annual Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize. (Courtesy of Cranston Public Library) work and dedication of our amazing team at the Cranston Public Library and everything we have done to reach out to our community. I am especially proud of how our team came together to safely reopen our libraries and serve our community over the past four months.” “I’m very excited that the Cranston Public Library has

won the prestigious Jerry Kline national community impact award,” Mayor Allan Fung said in the statement. “Our CPL has been a wonderful resource for our ever changing and growing population. They’re innovating to meet the needs of the people they serve daily. I can’t thank ■

LIBRARY - PAGE 3

Bolts edge rival West The Cranston East boys soccer team edged rival West 2-1 to continue its strong start to the season. Sports, page 16

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Cranston Herald

POLICE LOG DOMESTIC CHARGES On Oct. 23 at 10:30 a.m., police arrested Matthew Cunha, 32, 26 Hemlock Ave., Cranston, on a charge of domestic simple assault. On Oct. 23 at 11:19 p.m., police arrested Cristian Morillo, 25, 346 Union Ave., Apt. 3, Providence, on charges of domestic simple assault and domestic disorderly conduct. On Oct. 24 at 2:44 p.m., police arrested Miguel Angel Damian Chivalan, 22, 488 Farmington Ave., Apt. 1, Cranston, on charges of domestic simple assault and domestic disorderly conduct. On Oct. 24 at 3:51 p.m., police arrested Jessica Lacroix, 36, 81 School St., Central Falls, on a charge of domestic simple assault and battery. DUI On Oct. 24 at 1:11 a.m., police arrested Eliana Rodriguez, 38, 137 Bracken St., Cransto, on a charge of driving under the influence. Police say Rodriguez was arrested as a result of a motor vehicle stop at Budlong and Baldino roads. ASSAULT On Oct. 21 at 10:03 p.m., police arrested Shannah Kurland, 53, 149 Lenox Ave., Providence, on two counts of simple assault and charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Police say Kurland was arrested as a result of a disturbance on Elmwood Avenue. RECKLESS DRIVING On Oct. 24 at 11:44 p.m., police arrested Ambria Dunbar, 23, 56 Gavel Ave., Warwick, on a charge of Reckless Driving/Eluding. Police say Dunbar was arrested as a result of a motor vehicle accident at Narragansett Boulevard and Bluff Avenue. SHOPLIFTING On Oct. 23 at 1:40 p.m., police arrested Eduardo Caldaron, 66, 301 Cranston St., Providence, on charges of shoplifting and willful tres-

passing. Police say Caldaron was arrested as a result of a call for service on Plainfield Pike. On Oct. 24 at 4:05 p.m., police arrested Danny Griffiths, 39, 100 Front St., Apt. 502, Woonsocket, on charges of shoplifting and conspiracy. Police say Griffiths was arrested as a result of a call for service on Plainfield Pike. On Oct. 24 at 4:05 p.m., police arrested David Meyers, 37, 100 Front St., Apt. 502, Woonsocket, on charges of shoplifting and conspiracy. Police say Meyers was arrested as a result of a call for service on Plainfield Pike. DISORDERLY CONDUCT On Oct. 21 at 8:56 p.m., police arrested a juvenile on charges of disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and obstructing an officer in execution of duty. Police say the juvenile was arrested as a result of a disturbance on Elmwood Avenue. On Oct. 25 at 12:55 a.m., police arrested Kayri Quinonez, 25, 33 Kelley St., Providence, on a charge of disorderly conduct. Police say Quinonez was arrested as a result of a disturbance on Dyer Avenue. PROTECTIVE ORDER VIOLATIONS On Oct. 23 at 3:33 a.m., police arrested William Chalko, 55, 30 Howard Ave., Cranston, on two counts of violation of a no-contact order and a charge of violation of a protective order. He was additionally taken into custody on an arrest warrant issued from East Providence Police and a bench warrant. Police say Chalko was arrested as a result of a warrant pickup on Howard Avenue. WARRANTS On Oct. 21 at 4:22 p.m., police took Eddie Pinson, 38, 67 Ruggles St., Apt. 3, Providence, into custody on a bench warrant issued from Superior Court. Police say Pinson was arrested as a result of a motor vehicle stop on Webster Avenue.

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Library

(Continued from page 1) the Kline Foundation enough for recognizing the hard work and innovation that our director, board and staff have been doing to help make us one of the best library systems in the country.” “We are ecstatic to award the Cranston Public Library with the prize,” Gerald “Jerry” Kline said in the statement. “The library’s close working relationships with civic government, community organizations, and residents have made it integral to the city’s social fabric. They clearly represent what this prize seeks to recognize.” On Monday, Garcia said Fung nominated the library for the award. The application process, he said, took roughly a month with assistance from the city’s grant writer, Lisa Kirshenbaum. “Especially during the pandemic, I am so proud of the work of our amazing team here,” Garcia said, adding: “I always feel like my job is to make sure we have the funding and resources we need so our team and staff can do their amazing work with the public … I’m beyond honored to be able to lead the team here.” Garcia also praised Fung, calling the award “another testament to his leadership.” “He’s just built such a collaborative leadership style among all the departments in the city,” he added, specifically citing the schools, senior center and Police Department as entities with which the library enjoys “amazing” partnerships. Kline, a businessman, is the founder of California-based Innovative Interfaces and SkyRiver Technology Solutions. His family’s foundation partnered with Library Journal to create the Community Impact Prize as a means of recognizing public library systems across the country for their contributions to local communities.

COVER STORY: The Cranston Public Library is featured on the November 2020 cover of Library Journal. (Courtesy of Library Journal) The first prize, in 2019, was awarded to the Sacramento Public Library in California. This year’s award included several honorable mentions, including libraries in Arkansas, Georgia and South Carolina. A press release from Library Journal points to the Cranston Public Library’s role in the formation of the OneCranston organization as key in its being selected for this year’s award. “To serve a rapidly transforming community, with booming immigration and increasing economic disparity, Cranston Public Library helped convene a broad-based coalition of public, private, faith-based, and nonprofit organizations and community members to push for equity and social cohesion,” the release reads. “The resulting group, OneCranston, addresses opportunity gaps, access to employment and postsecondary education, and systemic barriers.” In continues: “And that’s just the beginning of the library’s deep and reciprocal civic engagement. Adult educa-

Thursday, October 29, 2020

tion and workforce assistance, health and opioid response, citizenship prep, and more are an integral part of the library’s strategic plan. The Library brought racial equity training, not only for its own staff, but for all city leadership, and has initiatives in progress to diversify its workforce and governing board.” The release also points to how Cranston’s library system adapted to the challenges of the pandemic. “The library supported the community through the advent of the COVID19 pandemic, pivoting to offer more than 200 virtual programs between March and June even as the buildings were closed for staff and patron safety, as well as offering tech help for students in distance learning and 3-D printing face shields for COVID testing center and senior facilities,” the release reads. “In June, the library reopened with capacity restrictions, using safety plans developed by employees and administration together.” “Library Director Ed Garcia leads this team from a place of extraordinary trust, giving staff the freedom to explore and experiment with new service models, new programs, and new initiatives,” Julie Holden, assistant director of Cranston’s library and president of the Rhode Island Library Association, said in a statement. “Our staff is committed to customer service, and we follow his model of saying yes more than we say no.” Judges for this year’s Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize included Deborah Jacobs, former director of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Libraries initiative, former Seattle city librarian and Library Journal’s 1994 Librarian of the Year; Marc A. Ott, executive director of the International City/County Management Association; and Rivkah Sass, director of Sacramento Public Library. More information is available at libraryjournal.com/communityimpact.

News at the Cranston Enrichment Center 1070 Cranston St. 780-6000 Hello friends! We are looking to bring more programs/activities to YOU and need your help. Do you have a computer or tablet? Would you be willing to participate in online activities? Your input is important to us. Please let us know what type(s) of program(s) and format (in-person or online) in which you would be interested in participating. We look forward to your feedback. Email us at cfera@cranstonri.org.

Nurse MaryLou and Pharmacist Mary are available by appointment to provide health assessments and screenings such as, blood pressure/pulse, glucose, weight, medical counseling and medication counseling. Call 780-6000 now for an appointment. Tips from the University of Rhode Island SNAP-Ed Program: Boost your brain power with brain-boosting foods. Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, tuna and trout, have Omega-3 “healthy” fat, which helps protect against brain damage.

No walnuts – try almonds and cashews. Try eating blueberries, blackberries or raspberries for a memory-boosting snack. Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli are high in vitamins that support your brain. Following the state protocol, face masks and social distancing are required. To learn the latest news from the Cranston Enrichment Center during these difficult times, follow us on social media – Twitter (@cranstonsenior) and Facebook (Cranston Senior Enrichment Center) – or visit cranstonseniorcenter.com.

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Thursday, October 29, 2020

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City receives $100K ‘Take It Outside’ grant Cranston has been awarded a $100,000 grant in the Rhode Island Commerce Corp.’s latest round of “Take It Outside” funding. The program, established by Gov. Gina Raimondo, seeks to help businesses increase outdoor activity to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. It provides funding to businesses through intermediary organizations such as municipalities and chambers of commerce. “I’m excited that we’re able to get the grant …“We’re going to continue to do what we can to help support [businesses],” Mayor Allan Fung said Monday. Cranston’s award will be distributed to businesses through a sub-grant program. Fung said the application process is being developed through Larry DiBoni, the city’s economic development director. “This second round of grants represents an investment in the Rhode Island organizations who have thought outside the box to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This new funding will help our businesses, communities, and nonprofits in finding even more ways to Take It Outside,” Raimondo said in a press release. “We are grateful to every business owner working to keep their customers and staff safe and healthy, and we’re going to continue to support them at every step of the way.” Library’s Garcia nominated for ALA president Ed Garcia, director of the Cranston Public Library, is one of three nominees to serve as the next president of the American Library Association. “It’s very cool. For me, I was really lucky and was able to attend the ALA annual conferences when I was in library school at URI … So I got involved in ALA very early on,” Garcia said Monday. “It’s just been so helpful to me in my career that I’ve wanted to give

back to the organization.” Garcia said the ALA’s nominating committee reached out to him early in the summer, and he completed a nomination packet for consideration. The other two finalists are Stacey Aldrich, state librarian for the Hawaii State Library System, and Lessa Kanani’opua Pelayo-Lozada, adult services assistant manager for the Palos Verdes Library District in Rolling Hills Estates, California. Voting for the ALA’s presidency will be held in March, Garcia said. Typically, between 10,000 and 15,000 of the organization’s roughly 56,000 members cast ballots in the voting. If he is elected, he will become the group’s president-elect in June and assume the role of president in 2022. Garcia already serves in several capacities for ALA, including as a member of its Executive Board. He said if elected president, he hopes to “see through” work on a number of initiatives, including finding new ways to address challenges that have been exacerbated by the pandemic. ‘In-fill’ zoning resolution approved During its regular monthly meeting Monday, the City Council approved a resolution urging the administration to pursue the enactment of new “in-fill” zoning rules. Ward 6 Councilman Michael Favicchio, who introduced the resolution, described the “in-fill” approach as a “very direct and simple way of introducing some more affordable housing into the city.” Essentially, the concept involves allowing for flexibility in terms of new construction on vacant, non-conforming lots – particularly in areas that had already been developed prior to the enactment of the city’s zoning laws in the 1960s. Favicchio said his resolution urges the adoption of new rules to allow for nonconforming home construction “where it fits the character of the neighborhood.” The hope, he said, is for the creation of new affordably priced and “starter” homes that will help alleviate the demand for housing in the city. Favicchio said he is pursuing the matter through a resolution, rather than an ordinance, because the current term is nearly at and end. He is leaving the council in January due to term limits. Planning Director Jason Pezzullo said his department has discussed the possibility “in-fill” zoning – and been supportive of it – for some time. “It’s been an issue for decades … In-fill is the way to get units that are in the range of affordable to be built,” he said. Pezzullo added, however, that the “in-fill” approach would be just “one slice of the pie” when it comes to the broader issue of affordable housing. He also said development of “in-fill” rules is “not going to be an easy lift.” Ward 3 Councilman John Donegan, the sole vote

against the resolution, said he is concerned the “in-fill” approach could exacerbate density issues in some neighborhoods and further concentrate low- and moderate-income housing in some parts of the city. He also fears the loss of green space in neighborhood settings. “I would want further data on the impact this would have,” he said. Citywide Councilman Steve Stycos said he was “a little bit torn” on the resolution, although he ultimately voted in favor of passage. He said the “record of the Planning Department has been that lawyers for the developers write ordinances and the Planning Department kind of fronts for them.” “I think developers’ opinions should be considered. But it should be done like every other member of the public has to do … It should not be done secretly in your office,” he said. Director of Administration Daniel Parrillo countered: “I don’t think the administration has hidden anything whatsoever. I think we’re very transparent.” Finance panel continues discussion of city bidding proposals Debate on proposals aimed at expanding the number of city contracts awarded to local businesses owned by women, members of minority groups and veterans was continued during Monday’s meeting of the City Council’s Finance Committee. The first of the proposals, introduced by Ward 3 Councilman John Donegan, was continued to the November meeting of the finance panel. The measure – which seeks to establish a “bid discount” program for minority-owned, woman-owned and local businesses – had previously been continued twice. The second, submitted by Ward 1 Councilwoman Lammis Vargas and cosponsored by Donegan and Ward 2 Councilwoman Aniece Germain, would take a different approach, establishing a certification system and bid award requirements similar to what currently exists in state law. Vargas withdrew the proposal with plans to resubmit it as new business at November’s council meeting following further discussions with the city administration and changes to the existing language. Donegan’s proposal would provide bid discounts for businesses that are based in Cranston, minority-owned and women owned. Each of those criteria would be eligible for a 2 percent discount, for a total of up to 6 percent. As an example, if a business were owned by a woman and based in Cranston, it would receive a discount of 4 percent – meaning that during the bid evaluation process, its bid would be reduced by 4 percent, even though the city would pay the full price. During Monday’s meeting, the Finance Committee

approved an amendment to Donegan’s proposal that would cap the value of discounts at $10,000. Previously, the figure had been set at $50,000. Donegan initially sought a vote on the proposal Monday, but agreed to a continuation at the request of other council members. It was suggested that the bid discount plan might be incorporated into the measure introduced by Vargas. Officials debate tax rate for solar facilities The City Council’s Finance Committee on Monday continued discussion on a proposal that would significantly increase the tangible property tax rate paid by owners of large solar facilities in Cranston. Citywide Councilman Steve Stycos introduced the proposal, which would increase the tangible property tax rate for such installations from $2 per kilowatt to $10 per kilowatt. He said the current $2 rate is far lower than seen in other communities and states, and the $10 figure would be “reasonable.” The proposal would also tie future increases in the rate to any increases in the city’s commercial tax rate. Stycos said estimates he received from the administration suggest the increase would result in between $250,000 and $300,000 in additional revenue to the city – a “considerable amount of money” at a time when the economic impact of the pandemic has created a great deal of uncertainty. “I just think it’s going to be critical to get money into the budget, and particularly from a business that has money, and that’s a much better route than raising the residential tax rate,” Stycos said. Ward 4 Councilman Ed Brady said he agrees the current $2 rate is “too low,” but he asked for more time to gather information regarding the proposal. He specifically questioned what impact the increase would have on the city’s negotiations with Revity Energy, developer of the Natick Avenue solar project, toward a net metering agreement. “I don’t know how it would affect, if it would at all … I think those are good questions and we should have that information,” Stycos said, agreeing to the request for a continuance. Robert Murray, the attorney representing Revity, addressed the committee prior to the continuance vote and expressed opposition to the proposal. “I’m not sure what statement this makes about supporting renewable energy projects,” he said, adding: “This ordinance is nothing more than a punishment, or punitive, for solar facilities.” He later continued: “To impose this type of punitive action … is probably going to be met with a litigious reaction.” Daniel Parrillo, the city’s director administration, told council members the talks on the net metering agreement are “ongoing.” — Daniel Kittredge

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Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

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HUGS! Stephen Feole hugs his 7-year-old son, Vincenzo, just prior to the Buddy Walk to raise funds for the National Down Syndrome Society. The walk was held this past Saturday at the Cranston High School West track. (Herald photos by Steve Popiel)

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Community walks for Vincenzo By MERI KENNEDY Joined by roughly 30 other participants, Stephen and Pasqualina Feole took to the track at Cranston High School West this past Saturday for World Down Syndrome Day. The Feoles’ son, 7-yearold Vincenzo, was born with Down syndrome. Stephen now serves as a board member of the Down Syndrome Society of Rhode Island. “We had no idea what that would mean for him or our family,” Pasqualina recalls of Vincenzo’s diagnosis. “Although he had a rough start to the world, he came out a fighter. He overcame so many obstacles when he was born and defied so many odds medically. He is our miracle child. Vincenzo is 7 now and he still fights, mostly with his big brother Antonio, age 8, whom he loves more than anything or anyone.” “When Vincenzo was a year old, we called the Down Syndrome Society of Rhode Island to ask a question about schooling and that’s how we got involved with the organization,” Stephen said. The family was told about the Buddy Walk, an initiative of the National Down Syndrome Society focused on raising awareness of the genetic disorder. They decided that it was definitely something in which they wanted to participate.

FAMILY MATTER: Vincenzo, 7, and his brother Antonio, 8, are hugged by their grandparents after the Buddy Walk. Pictured with the children are Noni Silvana Porreck, Babci Gwendolyn Feole and Nonno Stephen Feole. “So, we started Vincenzo’s Buddies and we’ve been walking for the past six years,” Stephen said. They started the team with family members and close friends, and everyone was excited to join up in support of Vincenzo. Since this year’s Buddy Walk went virtual, the family walked in small groups of people and the entire DSSRI, as part of the National Society event, raised more than $30,000 in Rhode Island. “Through DSSRI, we’ve been lucky enough to meet so many wonderful families,” Stephen said. “We see all the great things that these families are doing for their beautiful children, both young and old. We see the support they provide to their sons, daughters, broth-

ers, sisters, grandsons, granddaughters, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.” He continued: “It amazes us to see the accomplishments that these great people make. Things may be a bit harder for them and it may take a little longer for them to learn something, but they will do it.” “We see it every day with Vincenzo,” Pasqualina added. “He may not get something right away, but he does not give up until he accomplishes what he has set his mind to.” The Feole family provided pizza and desserts and water for the participants. The money raised will go to support research and provide gift cards for Down syndrome families in need.

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

E DITORIAL City benefits from strong field of candidates

t’s been an election year unlike any other. And at last, after months – in some cases years – of planning and campaigning, the finish line is now fully in sight. Just days before Nov. 3, thousands of Cranstonians have already cast their ballots. Some have done so early and inperson at City Hall, while many others have sent back their mail ballots through the Postal Service or drop boxes. This year’s election is enormously consequential for Cranston. The city is electing a new mayor for the first time in 12 years, and the majority of seats on the City Council are being contested. A number of bond questions seek significant local investments in key areas – the largest being a $147 million request for improvements to school buildings – while four proposed amendments to the city’s charter would make substantive alterations to Cranston’s governing document. We’ve shared our views in this space on the school bond and the charter amendments. We have chosen not to take a stance on any of the other races or questions, as we have done in some years past. Instead, we ask only that voters consider their choices carefully and exercise their franchise in whatever way they feel most comfortable – on Election Day, early and in person, or by mail. We hope our coverage of the issues and candidates has been of value as voters evaluate their options. We believe Cranston voters are fortunate to have a slate of high-quality candidates from which to choose this year. That goes for mayor and the various City Council seats. None of the seven seats on the School Committee are contested, and while this is would certainly seem to represent a vote of confidence in the current committee members, we would be remiss not to express our hope that it is not a sign of disengagement or apathy. Perhaps the next slate of municipal officers might consider whether providing some compensation to School Committee members for their service – which entails a major time commitment and a

great deal of scrutiny – is an idea whose time has finally come. The next mayor and council, after all, will see their own pay increase come January. In the mayoral contest, Republican Citywide Councilman Ken Hopkins and Democratic former Ward 4 councilwoman Maria Bucci have each made a compelling, if at times broad, case to voters. Each appears well liked by the community at large, and each has demonstrated a commitment to the city and its residents through their service. It seems to us the choice is ultimately a relatively simple one, and it mirrors the way the candidates have framed the race themselves – nearly total continuity from the administration of Mayor Allan Fung, as Hopkins advocates, or a change that embraces aspects of the current mayor’s record while charting some new course, which Bucci says she represents. We are anxious to see which path voters choose to follow. For City Council, our conversations and experiences with the various candidates suggest the city will be well served regardless of who emerges victorious. To be sure, there are clear differences in terms of policy and even approach. In some ways, the contrast presented in the mayoral race is mirrored on the council level. The emergence of a qualified, dedicated field of candidates is especially welcome this year, given how much experience the city’s government will lose in the next term with the departure of Fung and several members of the council. We applaud all of the hopefuls for their willingness to enter the public arena, and we wish all of them the best moving forward, regardless of where the results come down. Most of all, we thank each and every Cranstonian who takes part in our democratic process. Civic engagement is crucial to the continued success and prosperity of our city, as it is to our state and our country. We hope this cycle produces the kind of record voter turnout that has been anticipated – and that it sets a new benchmark for all the election years to come.

Op-ed: An advocate for our most vulnerable residents By SCOTT FRASER The Rhode Island Health Care Association believes Speaker Nicolas Mattiello deserves the votes of his constituents for many reasons, but particularly for his consideration of the most vulnerable in our communities, our elderly. We would be remiss if we didn’t speak on his behalf. In our experience, Nick Mattiello is a man of his word. Sure, there are times you may not agree with his approach or times you may not possess the same view on a topic, but there is no question he will let you know his position clearly and give you reasons for it. He will always take a meeting to listen to you. He is not a person who will try to pull one over on you or do something behind your back once you leave the office. What he says is what he does, and that has been refreshing for our organizations.

The Herald welcomes letters written on any issue or topic currently affecting the citizens of Cranston. All letters should include the author’s full name, city of residence and a daytime phone number so that the authorship of the letter may be independently verified. Letters and other submissions may be edited for grammar and/or content. The Herald has the right to refuse publication of any submission. Please e-mail submissions to Dan@ rhodybeat.com or mail them to the Cranston Herald, c/o Beacon Communications, 1944 Warwick Avenue, Ste. 4, Warwick, RI 02889.

Since 2012, RI governors have cut Medicaid reimbursement to nursing homes despite a law that year requiring an annual nursing home inflationary adjustment of about three percent. This adjustment was to meet the rising cost of healthcare supplies, rehabilitation expenses, nutritious food and staff pay. In fact, 70 cents of every dollar provided by Medicaid goes to staffing. Speaker Mattiello has chosen a different tact. Recognizing every one of the 83 nursing homes in Rhode Island is a small business; recognizing the economic impact of employing 10,000 people in our communities; and recognizing nursing homes play a critical role in the spectrum of care available to our most frail elderly, Nick Mattiello has protected our residents and workers. Year after year, he has restored a portion of the administration’s budget cuts to keep our frail elderly residents safe and secure. This year, Speaker Mattiello stood up for nursing homes again. As a local and national union pushed legislation harmful to our members (utilizing our small businesses as a way to grow their membership) he refused to give in to their pressure. Instead of blindly passing a bill claiming to be for the workers in our nursing homes, he listened to both sides. He heard loudly and clearly from more than 60 nursing home staff and administrators who testified at a State House hearing that an unfunded $44 million staffing mandate would put homes out of business. Continually forward-looking, Speaker Mattiello instead supported the creation of a Nursing Home Commission. This group of health care experts, legislators and the union will come together to hear testimony about the state of our industry including the impacts of COVID-19, the

cost of staffing, and the need for funding, among other topics. This Commission represents a thorough approach to assessing the needs of an important industry and will set the tone for the future of nursing homes in our state. The unions were frustrated with this comprehensive approach to vetting their bill, and since have skewered a number of representatives who voted in its favor. On Dec. 21, 2019, an editorial by The Providence Journal entitled “Little appetite for tax hikes,” referred to House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello’s thoughts on taxes, stating, “He noted that Rhode Island is rightly committed to compassionate government, spending a great deal for education, hospitals and nursing homes.” That quote was before COVID-19. It was before our schools were to close down for three months and struggle to get back in the fall. It was before our hospitals were taking in hundreds of those who would fall severely ill. And, it was months before our nursing homes became ground zero for the worst pandemic in 100 years. Nick Mattiello knew where critical funding needed to go before a crisis. He knew we needed to secure the lives of our most vulnerable residents – our children, our sick and our elderly. We commend the speaker for his forethought, preparedness and for his willingness to listen to the arguments on both sides – whether he agrees or not. We also thank him for his more reasoned approach to health care issues that have a significant impact on our workers, our residents and on our small businesses. Scott Fraser is the president and CEO of the Rhode Island Health Care Association, which represents 64 nursing home members in the state.

LETTERS Remembering a rare public official To the Editor: Cranston lost a rare public official recently when former Council President John Lanni died. We need more like him. John didn’t just talk about honest and efficient city government, he acted upon it. In the middle of the Ticketgate scandal, John learned that a police captain, who was disliked by Chief Marco Palumbo, had been on paid administrative leave for two years, costing taxpayers more than $100,000. He immediately put the matter on the upcoming Council agenda. The next day the captain was back at work. John could be tough and blunt when he felt strongly about an issue, like when he strongly criticized the fire department for failing to hire any women or people or color. And nothing annoyed him more than Mayor Fung hiring outside lawyers costing tens of thousands of dollars. I confess to raising the issue once just to hear him condemn wasteful spending

of tax money. Another time, a well-connected Cranston municipal judge was arrested for domestic violence. John ignored people who said he was a good guy who just made a mistake and demanded he step down for conduct unbecoming a judge. But he would also change his mind when presented with facts or a solid argument, like he did when he supported a proposal to ban people with concealed weapons permits from carrying guns in schools. John was a lifetime Democrat, but more importantly he was a fair. When John was Council President, Councilman Don Botts, a Republican, proposed a resolution to eliminate the master lever, a mechanism that allowed voters to cast ballots for all candidates of one party by flicking one lever. In deep blue Rhode Island, the master lever was a big advantage for Democrats. Nevertheless, John did-

n’t send Botts’s resolution to die in committee or use the president’s power to defeat it. He put it on the next Council meeting agenda. The resolution was debated and defeated. Several months later, however, Botts proposed the exact same resolution. Again, John didn’t pull parliamentary maneuvers or say the matter had already been discussed, he quickly put it on the agenda, and this time it passed. Finally, John did not take politics too seriously. While many of us would be upset on election night by Democratic losses, John would shrug and say sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. Of course that was easy for him to say. The only time Cranston voters rejected him was in 1976. Steven Stycos Cranston The author is a citywide member of the Cranston City Council.

A job well done for Cranston To the Editor: On behalf of all residents in Cranston, I want to give praise to the men and women of the Cranston Police Department for their tremendous efforts in protecting our city during recent expressions of protest in the area of Elmwood Avenue and our border with the City of Providence. All residents are grateful that the police have discouraged and effectively dealt with the impact of displays of protests outside our city. Far too often we see moments of peaceful protests grow into senseless acts of violence and destruction. Un-

lawful acts of looting, vandalism and property damage to residents and undeserving business owners and building structures cannot be condoned. These acts frequently place our first responders at risk for their own safety. I want to praise Mayor Allan Fung and the leadership of the police department for having an emergency response plan ready with the priority to keep residents safe and to protect property and businesses. Our tremendous law enforcement members and fire emergency personnel risk their lives every day and we should never take

them for granted. Insuring safe neighborhoods and the protection of our citizens will be a priority for me as Mayor. However, today I express my appreciation as a councilman citywide and admirer of our police department and all that they do every day protecting this community. Another job well done for Cranston. Kenneth J. Hopkins Cranston The author is a citywide member of the Cranston City Council and the Republican candidate for mayor.

Calling out China on human rights To the Editor: I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to our Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse for co-sponsoring the bipartisan Senate Resolution 274, which expresses “solidarity with Falun Gong practitioners who have lost lives, freedoms, and other rights for adhering to their beliefs and practices,” and highlights the ongoing egregious crime of organ harvesting from prisoners of conscience. Falun Gong is a traditional meditation practice based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. First introduced in 1992 and spread under Chi-

na’s official Qigong Society, the practice gained popularity rapidly due to its tremendous health benefits. By 1999, the Chinese government estimated that as many as 100 million people, from all walks of life, were practicing it. Threatened by this popularity, the then China’s President Jiang Zemin launched a campaign of brutal persecution in July 1999 to eradicate the practice. Falun Gong practitioners have since been illegally arrested, subjected to home invasion, demonized by its propaganda and defamation, incarcerated in its gulags, tortured for refusing to

give up, forced into slave-labor, and a main target for organ harvesting. This brutal persecution continues today, even amid the pandemic, and has taken away many lives. This important resolution, if passed, will shine a light on a persecution that the world has heard so little about, give voice to the voiceless, and condemn the PRC’s extreme religious intolerance and brutal eradication of all faiths. Thank you again Senators Reed and Whitehouse for supporting this resolution. Melody Wu Cranston

Visit us at cranstononline.com and write to Dan@Rhodybeat.com

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Op-ed: We can (and should) invest in environmental infrastructure now By JONATHAN STONE Election season will not be over in Rhode Island on November 3. After the presidential election, the R.I. General Assembly is expected to reconvene to address major, unfinished state business: the adoption of the 2021 budget and the scheduling of a special election to put a set of ballot questions before voters. Both the budget and the questions have been proposed by Governor Raimondo and they include the $69 million “Beaches, Clean Water and Green Bond.” The bond is a visionary proposal that would allow for new construction and upgrades to safe drinking water facilities and wastewater treatment plants ($15

ORDINANCE COMMITTEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing on the following proposed Ordinances will be held before the Ordinance Committee on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. pursuant to Section 3.12 of the Charter via Zoom webinar You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: Nov 12, 2020 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Ordinance Committee Meeting Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/830546799 06?pwd=SWx4c3k2dHVxM2NmYldlV 2VWaUpiUT09 Passcode: 473788 Or iPhone one-tap : US: +13017158592,,83054679906 #,,,,,,0#,,473788# or +13126266799, ,83054679906#,,,,,,0#,,473788# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free) or 888 788 0099 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free) Webinar ID: 830 5467 9906 Passcode: 473788 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kd1Ws6FzA1 Complete copies of proposed Ordinances are available for public review at the City Clerk’s Office, and the Cranston Central Library and the City’s website cranstonri.com under calendar by clicking on the meeting date. “Individuals requesting interpreter services for the dear or hard of hearing must notify the City Clerk’s Office at 461-1000 ext. 3197 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the hearing date.” Michael Favicchio, Chair Ordinance Committee

Leanne Zarrella, JD City Clerk

PROPOSED ORDINANCE 10-2001 IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER

2.40.020 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘MUNICIPAL COURT’ (Municipal Court Judges) It is ordained by the City Council of the City of Cranston as follows: Section 1. Chapter 2.40.020 (B) entitled “Appointment, Term and Qualifications of Judges of the Municipal Court” is hereby amended as follows: The term of the appointment for the judges shall be two years, to begin (when the City Council appoints the first judge and to run concurrent with term of office for City Council Members. Thereafter, said judges shall be appointed the first Monday in January, and the term shall run concurrent with the term of office for City Council.) the first day of February, following the inauguration of the City Council. The Council President shall nominate judges. Nomination shall be referred to the Ordinance Committee for a hearing and each nominee shall submit a resume to the City Clerk at least ten days before the hearing. Upon receiving the recommendations of the Ordinance Committee, the full Council shall vote to confirm or not confirm each judicial nomination. Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect upon its final adoption. Sponsored by: Councilmember Stycos 10/29/20

CITY OF CRANSTON SAFETY SERVICES & LICENSES COMMITTEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be heard before the Safety Services & Licenses Committee on Monday, November 9, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. via Virtual ZOOM on the application listed below. You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: Nov 9, 2020 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Safety Services & Licenses Committee

rates near historic lows, this is a good time for Rhode Island to use bond financing to spur economic recovery.” What’s more, the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank reminds us that voter approval of $15 million for clean water projects will generate another $60 million in federal dollars - funds that should not be left on the table. This means that the proposed “Beaches, Clean Water and Green Bond,” gives the General Assembly a substantial opportunity to not only address Narragansett Bay’s short- and long-term needs, and help rebuild our economy, but to also leverage millions of dollars in federal support for our recovery.

port the protection of the farmlands and forested lands that are essential for Rhode Island’s food economy and climate strategy ($3 million), and the Municipal Resilience Program, which provides grants the cities and towns that are grappling with the impacts of climate change ($7 million). Some may say that Rhode Island cannot afford to borrow during these tough times. To the contrary: now is the time to make long-term investments that protect our water, air, forests, farmland and communities. In written testimony to the House Finance Committee on July 29, General Treasurer Seth Magaziner stated that Rhode Island can afford to borrow for these projects, noting, “With interest

million); for new and re-built community parks and recreational facilities throughout the state ($4 million); and for long-overdue improvements to state beaches, parks and campgrounds ($40 million). The economic impact of investing in our beaches, parks and campgrounds alone is significant. “The Economic Impact of Rhode Island’s State Parks,” a University of Rhode Island study, indicated that in 2016, state-owned beaches, parks and campgrounds hosted an impressive 9.4 million visits, generated $311.9 million in consumer spending and yielded $38.8 million in tax revenue, while supporting 3,709 jobs for Rhode Islanders. The bond would further sup-

LEGAL NOTICES

International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kd3tKy7jFz New Auto Repair License E&K ElectroMechanics, LLC. d/b/a E&K ElectroMechanics 298 Montgomery Ave. Christopher G. Paplauskas., Chair Safety Services & Licenses Committee Leanne Zarrella, JD City Clerk Individuals requesting interpreter services for the deaf or hard of hearing must notify the City Clerk’s Office at 461-1000 ext. 3198 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the hearing date.”

CITY OF CRANSTON SAFETY SERVICES & LICENSES COMMITTEE

Christopher G. Paplauskas, Chair Safety Services & Licenses Committee Leanne Zarrella, JD City Clerk Individuals requesting interpreter services for the deaf or hard of hearing must notify the City Clerk’s Office at 461-1000 ext. 3198 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the hearing date.” 10/22, 10/29/20

CITY OF CRANSTON SAFETY SERVICES & LICENSES COMMITTEE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be heard via ZOOM before the Safety Services & Licenses Committee on Monday, November 9, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.ET on the application listed below. You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: Nov 9, 2020 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Safety Services & Licenses Committee Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/96330233913?pwd =NHgwbk1sQXIvWFZxblZQRzl1OGJBUT09 Passcode: 933041 Or iPhone one-tap : US: +13017158592,,96330233913#,,,,,,0#,, 933041# or +13126266799,,96330233913#,, ,,,,0#,,933041# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or 888 788 0099 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free) or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free) Webinar ID: 963 3023 3913 Passcode: 933041

Jonathan Stone has served as the executive director of Save The Bay since 2009.

Dial by your location +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) Meeting ID: 849 0410 7993 Passcode: 566854 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kAb0M3oKY CONTRACT EXTENSIONS:

10/22, 10/29/20

Back 2 Back Luxury Consignment Boutique LLC. d/b/a Back 2 Back Luxury Consignment Boutique 690 Oaklawn Ave

As legislators return to Smith Hill, we hope they remember how many residents depend on a clean and healthy Narragansett Bay for their livelihood and quality of life. For over four decades, Rhode Islanders have overwhelmingly voted in favor of investments in our environment, notably Narragansett Bay. We urge our representatives to approve the Governor’s proposal and allow Rhode Islanders the opportunity to, once again, voice their support and cast their vote for the “Beaches, Clean Water and Green Bond.”

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Fire Department NFPA Physicals and Police Officer Pre-employment Physicals Contract renewed for (YR-2) option renewal to Atmed Occupational Medicine. Contract Term: November 4, 2020 to November 4, 2021. Purchase and/or Sale of Forfeiture and City Vehicles at an Approved Automobile Auction Extend contract with East Side Auto Sales for Two (2) years. Two Year Contract Term: November 4, 2020 to November 4, 2022. BID WAIVERS: Fire Department Police Department Police Department DPW/Public Bldgs. DPW/Public Bldgs. DPW/Public Bldgs.

New England Fire Equipment Community Care Alliance AAA Police Supply Citiworks Corp. Electric Motor Service TJ Russell Supply, Inc.

$1,359.11 $4,000.00 $1,093.44 $720.00 $1,198.99 $6,000.00

Mark J. Marchesi, Purchasing Agent

A Public Hearing will be heard via virtual ZOOM before the Safety Services & Licenses Committee on Monday, November 9, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

10/29/20

When: Nov 9, 2020 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Safety Services & Licenses Committee

Public hearing will be held via Virtual ZOOM (see below) on the following date, Monday, November 9, 2020, at 6:00pm ET relative to the granting of a liquor license for Alcoholic beverage at the designated locations in accordance with Title 3, General Laws of 1956, as amended

Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/96330233913?pwd =NHgwbk1sQXIvWFZxblZQRzl1OGJBUT09 Passcode: 933041 Or iPhone one-tap : US: +13017158592,,96330233913#,,,,,,0#,, 933041# or +13126266799,,96330233913#,, ,,,,0#,,933041# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or 888 788 0099 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free) or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free) Webinar ID: 963 3023 3913 Passcode: 933041 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kd3tKy7jFz Extended Hours of operation 7-Eleven Inc. d/b/a 7-Eleven Store #33614D 1394 Plainfield Ave Christopher G. Paplauskas, Chair Safety Services & Licenses Committee Leanne Zarrella, JD City Clerk Individuals requesting interpreter services for the deaf or hard of hearing must notify the City Clerk’s Office at 461-1000 ext. 3198 seventy-two (72) hours in advance of the hearing date. 10/22, 10/29, 11/5/20

CRANSTON BOARD OF CONTRACT AND PURCHASE AGENDA There will be a meeting of the Board of Contract and Purchase on November 4, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. Pursuant to City Council Ordinance, the following advertises the agenda for that meeting. All matters listed are subject to a vote and/or final action by the Board unless otherwise noted. This is a virtual meeting, via Zoom; please follow the directions below. BOCAP MEETING November 4, 2020 Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84904107993?pwd=azVvRDR2VDJMVzAvSVpDOXJNZmo3QT09

CITY OF CRANSTON PUBLIC HEARING

Virtual ZOOM When: Nov 9, 2020 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Safety Services & Licenses Committee Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://zoom.us/j/96330233913?pwd=NHgwbk1sQXIvWFZxblZQRzl1OGJBUT09 Passcode: 933041 Or iPhone one-tap : US: +13017158592,,96330233913#,,,,,,0#,,933041# or +13126266799,, 96330233913#,,,,,,0#,,933041# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 558 8656 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or 888 788 0099 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0276 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free) or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free) Webinar ID: 963 3023 3913 Passcode: 933041 International numbers available: https://zoom.us/u/adN4OLtxpU CLASS B VICTUALLING ALCOHOLIC BEV. LICENSE- RENEWAL 39 West Phenix Plaza, LLC d/b/a 39 West 39 Phenix Ave. 401 Nightlife LLC. d/b/a Pregame Lounge 349 Dyer Ave. Amedeo Restaurant & Lounge, Inc. d/b/a Amedeo Restaurant & Lounge 1492 Park Ave. Bossa LLC d/b/a Cucina Rustica 555 Atwood Ave. Dani Dono Pizzeria LLC d/b/a Catanzaro Pizza 1283 Park Ave. JLC Restaurant LLC. d/b/a King’s Garden Restaurant 90 Rolfe Sq. Kelley Gazzerro VFW Post #2812 1418 Plainfield Pike McShawn’s Pub, Inc. d/b/a McShawn’s Pub 1336 Cranston St. Mulligan’s Island LLC. d/b/a Mulligan’s Island 1000 New London Ave. The Frosted Mug d/b/a Pub 594 594 Reservoir Ave. Thirsty Beaver Pub and Grub LLC d/b/a Thirsty Beaver Pub 288 Atwood Ave. Uptown Burger Bar, LLC d/b/a Pat’s Italian Bistro 1000 Chapel View Blvd. CLASS BV LIMITED ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE- RENEWAL Michael –John Culinary Affair, Inc. d/b/a Culinary Affair 650 Oaklawn Ave. CLASS D CLUB LICENSE- RENEWAL Columbian Realty Corp. d/b/a Knights of Columbus Nelson Mack Narragansett VFW Post 4651 Pawtuxet Athletic Club

70 Pettaconsett Ave. 7 Haven Ave. 12 Aborn St.

REMONSTRANTS WILL BE HEARD AT THE TIME AND PLACE ABOVE STATED. BY ORDER AND ON BEHALF OF THE COMMITTEE ON SAFETY SERVICES AND LICENSES OF THE CRANSTON CITY COUNCIL. “INDIVIDUALS REQUSTING INTERPRETER SERVICES FOR THE HEARINGIMPAIRED MUST NOTIFY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK AT 461-1000 EXT 3198 SEVENTY-TWO (72) HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THE HEARING DATE.” Christopher Paplauskas, Chair Leanne Zarrella, JD City Clerk 10/22, 10/29/20

CITY OF CRANSTON REQUEST FOR CONTRACTORS FOR RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM The Cranston Department of Community Development invites general contractors to submit sealed bids to the Department for various residential rehabilitation projects throughout the City. Projects include but not limited to: electrical upgrades, plumbing and heating, windows, roof, gutters, siding and other residential rehabilitation needs. This program is funded by the U S Department of Housing and Urban Development. Contractors responding must have a Rhode Island license and registered with the State Board of Contractor’s Registration, a Lead Safe Remodeler/Renovator license and carry liability and workers compensation insurance. Please contact the Department of Community Development, 1090 Cranston Street, Cranston, RI 02920, 401-780-6240 for the current list of jobs available for bidding. Minority, women-owned, and Section 3 businesses are encouraged to respond. Allan W. Fung, Mayor City of Cranston

Stephanie M. Susi, Interim Director Cranston Community Development

Cranston Herald

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Chatter

(Continued from page 1) Scavenger Hunt for Halloween How about a spooky scavenger hunt to get you in the Halloween spirit? Visit the William Hall Library to pick up a scavenger hunt sheet. Complete it any time before Oct. 31 and return it to the William Hall Library for a treat bag. Rotary seeking to help families this Thanksgiving In the spirit of giving, please consider sponsoring a Thanksgiving food basket for local Cranston families in need. The Cranston Rotary has a goal to provide 100 baskets filled with a turkey, side dishes, vegetables, milk and apple pie. Please message them for details, talk to your favorite Rotarian or mail a check for $35 to PO Box 3723 Cranston RI 02910. They have partnered with Stop & Shop. Hair on Square seeking donations for House of Hope Hair on the Square, located at 4 Rolfe Square, is holding a clothing drive for the

House of Hope. Any donations of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing items are being accepted. Items can be dropped off at the salon. The most needed items include new socks, gently used gloves and hats, new men’s boxers, new or gently used hoodies and sweatshirts, new or gently used winter boots and new or gently used coats. Drive-thru Trunk or Treat The Cranston Parks and Recreation Department is planning a Halloween Drive-thru Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 2 to 4 p.m. The event will be held at the Cranston Stadium parking lot. If you are interested in setting up your trunk and passing out candy, please email Regina Lynch at rlynch@cranstonri.org. COVID-19 rules will apply to volunteers and participants driving through. Volunteers handing out candy would be required to wear a mask at all times, use gloves when distributing candy and complete a health screening form provided by the Parks and Recreation Department prior to event. Organizers also need a few volunteers to help guide traffic flow, which will be in one direction. Volunteers will be direct-

OBITUARY Anthony P. DeCubellis Anthony P. “Duke Belaire” DeCubellis, longtime Rhode Island resident and Jazz legend passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on October 15, 2020 surrounded by family in his home in Derry, NH. Duke was the loving husband to his late wife, Janice M. DeCubellis (Foster) and the adored father of Michael, Diana, Karen and Susan. The son of the late Pasquale DeCubellis (Ray Belaire) and Olga DeCubellis (Onorato), Duke was born in Providence, Rhode Island in 1932. He graduated Central High School in Providence and attended the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. Duke began his career as a professional drummer at the early age of 16. Influenced by his father, Ray, a Band Leader and operator of the Arcadia Ballroom in Providence, exposed Duke to the music scene and sounds. Starting his musical career during the Big Band era, he remained loyal to that genre of music throughout his long career becoming famous for keeping the Big Band sound alive in New England. He began touring with the Johnny Long Orchestra at the age of nineteen with whom he toured for one year and later with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. He was a member of the 1st Armored Division Army Band for two years and then went on to tour with the Tex Beneke Band in 1955-1956. Duke continued drumming with the house band at The Celebrity Club, the first integrated club in Providence, working with such artists as Coleman Hawkins, Roy Eldridge, June Christy, Tony Scott and Slimm Gaillard. In 1967 Duke formed his own big band modeled after the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra of the Village Vanguard in NYC. Motivated by what he heard; Duke was inspired to bring that sound to Rhode Island. Tapping veteran musicians and the finest young talent, The Duke Belaire Jazz Orchestra was born. The Band played every Monday night at Bovi’s Tavern in East Providence for more than 30 years straight earning notoriety for being one of the longest standing Swing Bands. Duke is credited for shepherding many young musicians through their musical careers and exposing younger musicians to the great sounds of Big Band Jazz. Many band members went on to successful careers touring all over the world, drawing on the experience and honed musicianship enabled by playing in the Duke Belaire Jazz Orchestra. Duke believed his role as the drummer was to keep the swing going, “drive hard” and allow the musicians to showcase their talent. Many jazzmen, like Zoot Sims and Clark Terry, passing through town would stop in to Bovi’s Tavern to listen but often could not resist the temptation to sit-in and play. Clark Terry was so impressed with the band he gifted Duke big band arrangements as did others like Woody Herman. In 1980 Duke recorded an album, “Live at Bovi’s” (Argonne records) which earned five stars in the popular Downbeat Magazine. Duke was inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in 2015. Duke had a fierce passion for music, second only to his love and devotion to his wife Janice to whom he was married for 60 years. Duke and Janice married in 1957 and together they lovingly raised their four children in Cranston, Rhode Island. In the early1970’s recognizing the toll being a musician could have on family, Duke and Janice started a business, which would allow him to be home. Duke owned and operated Garden City Liquors located in Garden City Shopping Center in Cranston for 15 years. After retiring this business, he went on to work at Frenze Liquor where he earned recognition for his top salesmanship. Throughout his life, Duke never let his passion for music wane. He was able to return playing music full time when his children were grown developing a lucrative general booking business. He headlined at local events such as the Newport Jazz Festival, the Palladium Ballroom, Brown University and playing at various venues throughout the New England area and of course, his standing Monday night gig at Bovi’s Tavern. Duke retired from playing at the age of 70. Duke was the devoted father to Michael DeCubellis of Eustis, FL., Diana LaGasse and her husband Robert of Derry, NH, Karen McGowan and her husband Lawrence of Woodbury, CT, and Susan DeCubellis of Casselberry FL, the loving grandfather of Nicole Fretwell and her husband Mathew, Michael LaGasse, Alejandra LaGasse and Brady McGowan; loving great-grandfather to Lily, Everett, Bennett and August Fretwell. He was the dear brother to the late Carole Weber of Warwick, RI; Raymond DeCubellis of Cranston, RI; and Mary Kashmanian (DeCubellis) of Cranston, RI. Duke’s Visiting will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2020 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, Cranston, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston, followed by a funeral home service at 8:00 p.m. His burial will be private. Visit NardolilloFH.com for online condolences.

ed to set their vehicles up in every third parking spot. Flow of traffic through the Stadium parking lot will be one way. All persons (adults and children) in the vehicles coming through to receive candy will be offered a mask if they do not have one and will stay in their vehicle throughout. A car length will be maintained between each vehicle. As the cars proceed from trunk to trunk, the children will hold their candy receptacle out the car window. Those giving out candy will use their gloved hand to put candy into the child’s receptacle. “Trunks” will be set up on both sides of the path, so traffic will be slow. For each car coming through the drive-thru, one name and phone number per vehicle will be collected. These forms and contact information will be kept for contact tracing only. Halloween at D. Palmieri’s Bakery As we are all aware, Halloween in 2020 will not be like other years. Given the current circumstances, we want to do what we can to make the holiday as fun as possible for the children of Rhode Island and their parents. Therefore, all costumed children who come to D. Palmieri’s Bakery on Saturday, Oct. 31, during regular business hours will receive candy in celebration of Halloween. All COVID-related precautions must be followed. And remember, you have to say “Trick or Treat!” Helping neighbors through CCAP CCAP needs your help to help them reach its goal of supporting 1,500 families this holiday season. Due to the pandemic, CCAP is conducting its holiday giving campaigns differently this year. The organization is asking for donations to purchase gift cards for those its serves as an unprecedented number of residents seek assistance during challenging times. A $50 gift card for a supermarket can help provide for a family of four. Donors can also help fill the CCAP Food Bank’s shelves by giving non-perishable food items, paper goods and cleaning products. All food and donations can be delivered during business hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 311 Doric Ave., Cranston (lower level). Please make checks payable to Comprehensive Community Action/Gift Cards and sent to 311 Doric Ave., Cranston, RI 02910, Attention: Holiday Giving Campaign.

Thursday, October 29, 2020

The Cranston Health Equity Zone and CCAP Family Health Services will be offering free flu clinics in the community. Getting a flu shot is an easy way to help protect you and your family. To learn more, visit comcap.org

The Dream Center will be purchasing 400 high-quality, waterproof backpacks and accepting donations to fill them. These filled backpacks will be passed out on the State House lawn on the morning of Saturday, Nov. 21. The winter daily essentials that will fill the backpacks include toothbrushes, hand sanitizer, hand and feet warmers, winter hats, gloves and scarfs, facemasks, new socks, liquid soap, shampoo, razors, deodorant, powder, lotion, combs and brushes, feminine hygiene products, and wipes. Any monetary donations can be made at ridreamcenter.com/give-online. To donate any of the listed items above, please drop them off by Nov. 7 at Praise Tabernacle Church, located at 330 Park Ave. in Cranston.

Special Halloween at Showcase Cinemas

Library’s Halloween costume contest

Showcase Cinemas will be hosting a Halloweenthemed partnership with PJ Masks, the superhero shows for preschoolers. “PJ Masks: Halloween Tricksters” will feature fulllength episodes, music videos, and lots of Halloween fun. In the Halloween special, heroes Catboy, Owlette and Gekko must protect the city from Luna Girl, Night Ninja and the Wolfy Kids, who are trying to steal all the goody bags. Once again, it will be up to the PJ Masks to go into the night to save the day! Programming will run at Showcase Cinemas Warwick Quaker Lane at 1 p.m. on Oct. 24 and 25. Showcase Cinemas Popcorn Club members are also eligible to receive a special PJ Masks character “amulet” bracelet (while supplies last). Tickets are $5 at all locations and are now for sale online. Customers may pre-order their movie snacks – including freshly popped popcorn, candy and soda – via the Showcase Cinemas app and website and collect them at Xpress Pick-up; concessions are now available in all Showcase Cinemas locations. Children are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to the theater, along with a face covering/mask, per theater safety guidelines.

Calling all ComicCon attendees, trick-or-treaters, quarantine crafters, and Halloween hopefuls! It’s time to get dressed up and enter the Cranston Public Library Costume Contest. From now until Oct. 31, the library will be taking photo submissions for the contest in multiple brackets, including babies, kids, teens, and group/family. Prizes will be awarded to the winner in each category. Looking for inspiration? Follow along on the library’s YouTube channel as Oaklawn Branch librarian Tayla walks you through creating a simple but engaging costume without breaking the bank. This four-part video series will be released on Tuesdays throughout October. For full rules and to enter the contest, visit cranstonlibrary.org/costume-2020. For any questions, contact Alyssa, teen librarian, at teens@cranstonlibrary.org.

Additionally, CCAP is accepting donations for its Adopt-A-Family Program. For $300, donors can support an entire family, although other amounts are accepted and appreciated. For more information about CCAP’s Holiday Giving Campaign, contact Sherry Diaz, vice president of social services, at 562-8336 or sdiaz@comcap.org, or Lee Beliveau, vice president of development, at 562-8356 of lbeliveau@comcap.org. Free flu clinics

A Thanksgiving helping Starbucks of Chapel View, the Cranston Police Department, the Cranston Substance Abuse Task Force and CCAP are teaming up to bring families in need in our community a Thanksgiving meal. Please consider purchasing a grocery store gift card the next time you are shopping. A $50 gift card will provide a family of four a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Please bring all gift cards to the Starbucks in Chapel View for easy contact-less drop off. CCAP’s Food Bank servers over 800 families each month and are seeing an unprecedented number of our neighbors turning to CCAP for support during this crisis. Your support and generosity will help so many in our community. RI Dream Center needs your help The RI Dream Center helps meet the needs of people dealing with poverty throughout Rhode Island, including through food assistance, clothing, education and other services. Since the pandemic began, homelessness numbers have dramatically risen in our state. The need is so great and we need to continue to help as many people as possible.

Holiday Meal Program The Cranston Senior Enrichment Center is already starting to prepare for the Holiday Meal Program for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Volunteers will prepare and deliver Thanksgiving and Christmas meals to any Cranston senior who will be alone for the holidays. If you would like to volunteer to deliver meals, would like a meal or know of someone who would, please contact the center’s receptionist at 780-6000. The Thanksgiving meal registration deadline is Friday, Nov. 13, and Christmas meal deadline is Friday, Dec. 11. For additional information, visit cranstonseniorcenter.com. Troop 22 looking for Scouts Boy Scout Troop 22 Cranston is looking for new Scouts. Following all the BSA and state of Rhode Island safety protocols, the troop is meeting, hiking and camping. It has a full schedule of activities planned for the 2020-21 program year. Troop 22 is affiliated with girls’ Troop 13-G, which is also looking for new members. Both units meet at the Edgewood Congregational Church, 1788 Broad St., at 7 p.m. on most Thursdays. The program is for youth ages 11 to 18. For younger children, Troop 22 also has a relationship with Cub Scout Pack 2 Cranston. Anyone interested is invited to call Paul Kelley at 401-595-6726 for more information. Medicare open enrollment Medicare health and drug plans make changes each year to things like cost, coverage, and providers and

pharmacies in their networks. Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 is when all Medicare members can change Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage to better meet their needs for the following year. Information for 2021 plans will be available beginning in October. To schedule an appointment, contact the Cranston Senior Enrichment Center’s Social Services Division – Jennifer at 780-6254, Amy at 7806200, or Matt at 780-6255. Mindful Mondays Mindful Monday is a weekly drop-in meditation group open to all teens 13 to 18 years old. Brief meditations are facilitated by CCAP’s Community Response Program team members. The program will be held on Mondays, on Zoom, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. beginning on Oct. 5. For more information, contact Jennifer Pelkey at jpelkey@comcap.org or 3182555. Transportation volunteers for seniors Transportation volunteers are needed for the Cranston RSVP program. RSVP is seeking volunteers to deliver brown bag lunches to seniors, run errands for seniors and transport Cranston homebound seniors to medical appointments. Anyone interested in becoming an RSVP volunteer can contact Karen at 7806159 for an interview. You must be 55 years of age or older to volunteer and a BCI is required. A mileage reimbursement is given to cover travel costs. CCAP Emergency Housing Assistance The Comprehensive Community Action Program’s Emergency Housing Assistance program assists individuals/families living in Cranston, Coventry, Scituate and Foster with back rent, security deposits, mortgage assistance, late fees associated with back rent or mortgage, moving costs and utilities. Funding is limited. For more information, call CCAP at 4677013 or visit comcap.org. Neighbors helping neighbors Barbara and Kevin Dwares of Cranston are once again collecting individually wrapped desserts such as brownies, cookies, banana breads, cookie bars, etc., to be delivered to Help The Homeless RI on Saturday afternoons. The donations are needed by noon on Fridays. Please drop them off at 46 Balsam Court in Garden City. Please put them in the plastic container located near the breezeway. The bin will be outside every Wednesday through Friday. Did you know? The phrase “trick or treat” is a subtle suggestion that if a treat (like candy) is given, then the child will not perform a “trick” (mischief) on the owner of the house. This popular Halloween custom has its origins in the ancient practices of “souling” and “guising.” The term “trick or treat” first appeared in print in 1927 in Canada. (Source: Halloween Fun Facts) To submit your news from the community, email Meri R. Kennedy at CranstonChatter@aol.com. Photos in jpg format are accepted and news can include community events, promotions, academic news and nonprofit events. Email today and see your news in our column in the Cranston Herald.

In Memoriam Remember your late loved ones with an In Memoriam ad

Obituaries

Simply provide your loved one’s picture, your verse or pick a verse from our selection. We will be happy to assist you. We have many sizes and to accommodate your budget

In your time of need, the Cranston Herald will print your loved one’s full obituary for a small charge. The paper also places the obituary on our Web site, cranstononline.com.

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Should you desire our services, kindly inform your funeral director, or call Sue Howarth at (401) 732-3100 or email sueh@rhodybeat.com for additional information. Obituary prices start at $50. You may place the obituary in any of our other newspapers for half price. Thank you.

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Mattiello, Fenton-Fung spar on ‘Newsmakers’ By DANIEL KITTREDGE The closely watched contest between Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello and Republican challenger Barbara Ann FentonFung was again in the spotlight late last week. The two hopefuls appeared for an Oct. 23 debate on WPRI’s “Newsmakers” program, trading barbs and making their closing arguments to House District 15 voters in a race that will have outsized influence on Rhode Island’s political scene. Moderators Tim White and Ted Nesi began with questions related to the recent trial of Jeff Britt, a former Mattiello campaign aide accused of laundering money to pay for a late-season mailer during the speaker’s narrow victory over Steve Frias in 2016. A verdict in the trial – in which Mattiello was called as a witness by the defense – is not expected until after Nov. 3. Mattiello defended his prior statements that he had no knowledge of the controversial mailer, despite his acknowledgement during his testimony that he had chastised another top aide, Leo Skenyon, once he learned of it. “I saw the mailer and I didn’t like it … It was four years ago. I can’t tell you exactly what I was thinking then,” he said. Fenton-Fung, who has made the controversies surrounding the speaker a central focus of her campaign, countered: “I don’t know how many times you practiced that line in front of the mirror, but, you might be able to convince yourself of that, after thinking of it too long, but guess what? You’re not fooling anybody in District 15.” Fenton-Fung also accused Mattiello of relying on aides whose work is funded by taxpayers to conduct campaign business. “Stop using taxpayer-funded

CONSEQUENTIAL CONTEST: Republican Barbara Ann Fenton-Fung and Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello take part in a debate on WPRI’s “Newsmakers” program last week. (Courtesy of James Bartone/WPRI-TV) positions for your campaign,” she said. Mattiello responded: “My record is of reform. She goes too far in her accusations … This is just politics.” The candidates addressed a range of other issues during the half-hour “Newsmakers” appearance. Fenton-Fung was asked to explain her support for President Donald Trump in light of her criticisms of the speaker. “Mother Teresa is not on the ballot this year … I think President Trump can bring our economy back, and that lifts everybody,” she said. The two also sparred over whether Mattiello, as he has previously argued, truly represents a “firewall” against a growing pro-

gressive movement within the state’s Democratic Party. Fenton-Fung said Mattiello “betrayed” a pro-life community that went “balls to the wall” and “won him that last election against Steve Frias.” Mattiello countered: “I’m a prolife voter, but nobody wants the speaker of the House to be a dictator, on any issue.” He said his decision to allow legislation codifying the protections of the landmark Roe v. Wade case in Rhode Island state law reflected the popular support for that course of action. “When that strong a majority in a democratic system wants it, it’s going to happen,” he said. “There comes a breaking point that you can’t hold it back.”

Mattiello also reprised a central argument – that his position as speaker yields significant benefits for Cranston. He predicted “turmoil” in House leadership if he loses. “If I win the election, things become much more predictable …Why would Cranston ever want to lose that influence?” he said. He added: “The only way the car tax relief happens is if I’m elected.” Fenton-Fung framed herself as well positioned to help effect reform at the State House. “Taking on the establishment has always been in my blood … and the fight has never been more important than right now,” she said. During a rapid-fire response portion of the event, both candi-

dates said they opposed the Costco-anchored Cranston Crossing development and support the use of body cameras by police. Fenton-Fung gave Gov. Gina Raimondo a B for her handling of the pandemic, while grading the Assembly’s response as an F. Mattiello gave the governor an A for her handling of the crisis. Both candidates said they support removing “Providence Plantations” from the state’s official name. Regarding the legalization of recreational marijuana, FentonFung said: “I’m open to it.” Mattiello’s response: “Maybe.” Full video of the debate can be found on wpri.com. Audio can be found by subscribing to the “Newsmakers” podcast.

Cranston Herald

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Campaign

Thursday, October 29, 2020

(Continued from page 1) The figure includes 78,348 ballots cast early at city and town halls and another 123,363 mail ballots scanned by the Board of Elections. “It’s fantastic. We’ve had a line out the door for the last couple of days,” Nick Lima, the city’s registrar and elections director, said Tuesday morning of the early voting numbers. Lima said nine veteran poll workers are staffing the city’s early voting setup, which spans the entire first floor of City Hall. “We’re getting nothing but compliments from voters,” he said. Lima said he expects the number of early voters – and, as a result, the lines at City Hall – to grow as the week goes on, while the heavy and mail turnout means those voting at regular polling places on Election Day should expect little or no wait. He said a full complement of 330 poll workers is in place, with additional backups, and all 30 of Cranston’s polling places will be open on Nov. 3. “We’re one of the only communities in the state that has our staffing at that level … We’re not expecting any lines on Election Day,” he said. Early voting continues through Nov. 2 at City Hall. Daily hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a closing time of 4 p.m. on Nov. 2. On Election Day, all 30 of the city’s polling places will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those voting by mail, an official drop box has been set up at City Hall. Mail ballots can also be returned at the Board of Elections headquarters, located at 2000 Plainfield Pike in Cranston. Mail ballots must be dropped off or received by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Asked if he foresees turnout hitting record levels in Cranston, Lima said it’s “tough to judge” but that it “wouldn’t surprise me.” “I think with the amount of interest … there’s certainly every reason possible for people to vote,” he said. For those who did not register to vote for this year’s election ahead of the deadline, Rhode Island allows same-day registration for the presidential election only. Lima said Cranston voters in need of this option should visit the Board of Canvassers at City Hall between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Election Day. Additional information is available at vote.sos.ri.gov. When to expect results As early turnout surges, it appears Rhode Islanders will know the results of the general election sooner than was the case following the Sept. 8 statewide primary.

READY TO VOTE: A line stretches around the entrance to Cranston City Hall as voters cast early ballots on Tuesday. On Monday, 716 people cast early ballots in the city. (Herald photos) During a press conference last week, state officials unveiled the initial plan for the release of voting results. Votes cast on Nov. 3 at polling places will be reported once polls close at 8 p.m., followed by early voting tallies from city and town halls at 10 p.m. On Monday, the Board of Elections voted in favor of a plan to begin releasing mail ballot tallies on a rolling basis starting at 11 p.m. on election night. Previously, mail ballot results have been reported as a single batch. Those initial mail tallies will not include ballots delivered to drop boxes around the state on Nov. 3, since those votes must first be transported to the Board of Elections headquarters in Cranston. Additional mail ballot reporting will occur Nov. 4 and once all mail vote counting is finalized. The schedule represents a much more rapid reporting plan than was the case for the statewide primary. On Sept. 8, in-person votes from Election Day were released after the closing of polls. Early vote tallies were released the next day, followed by mail ballot counts on Thursday, Sept. 10. Brady responds to Mattiello ad An ad for Democratic House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello that appeared in last week’s edition of the Cranston Herald has drawn a response from the Cranston City Council member whose likeness it used. Republican Ward 4 Councilman Ed Brady said in a statement he is “very disappointed that Nick Mattiello’s campaign team has placed an ad in the Cranston

Herald which gives the appearance that I am openly endorsing him in his re-election campaign.” “I have made no such open endorsement … Common courtesy should have mandated by his campaign team and I should have been asked for the permission to use my quote and photo before it was released in the Cranston Herald,” he added. Referencing Mattiello and his GOP opponent, Barbara Ann Fenton-Fung, Brady said: “As a local businessman, I have not taken a formal position in this political race because I consider both candidates friends respectfully.” The ad, which appeared on Page 9 of the Herald’s Oct. 22 edition, features a photo of Brady and a quote of his taken from a Cranston West Alumni Association video. It reads: “Democrats and Republicans tend to disagree, but Speaker Mattiello has been so important for the City of Cranston because he’s always been responsive and I’m very appreciative that he’s always gotten back to me and executed when asked to fix an area, make an improvement or do what’s best for the City of Cranston.” In his response to the ad, Brady said: “I stand by the statement that was made months ago in a video with the Cranston West Alumni Association and do appreciate that Speaker Matiello has continued to be responsive for Cranston even though we are from opposing parties.” Brady also offered praise for Fenton-Fung and her husband, Mayor Allan Fung. “They have always sup-

ported me and I have learned so much from their continued community leadership and support over the years,” he said. “Mayor Fung’s fiscal responsibility has allowed our city to not only survive through Covid but progress forward. We are truly lucky to have his leadership. Barbara Ann has definitely become a friend and earned my respect. She is well qualified to be the District 15 state representative.” Patti Doyle, a spokeswoman for Mattiello, offered the following response by email: “Ed Brady willingly participated in a campaign video and photo shoot this past summer at Cranston West High School. We appreciate his kind words about the Speaker which were used in this ad. Last, we never claimed Ed Brady was endorsing the Speaker.”

Latest endorsements A number of local candidates have touted new endorsements in the waning days of the 2020 campaign. Democratic mayoral hopeful Maria Bucci has received the backing of the Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council, the organization said in a recent press release. “Maria comes from a working family and understands the value of hard work with strong community values,” Michael F. Sabitoni, the organization’s president, said in a statement. “She is an avid supporter of the Cranston School Construction bond and will be a Mayor who prioritizes education and the working families of Cranston.” Republican mayoral candidate Ken Hopkins, meanwhile, recently received the

endorsement of the Cranston Regional Crime Watch. “Councilman Hopkins’s commitment to protect the citizens of Cranston and his support neighborhood organizations led to this endorsement,” Albert Melikian Jr., organizer of the crime watch, said in a statement. Former state representative Bob Lancia, the Republican candidate for the state’s Second Congressional District this year, recently announced he has received the backing of IBPO Local 301, the city’s police union. “I am so privileged to have the support of the Cranston Police,” Lancia said in a statement. “Our police departments ensure that we are secure in our homes and businesses as well protecting the larger issues of our freedom under the Constitution.”

A LOOK INSIDE: The entire first floor of Cranston City Hall, as seen on Oct. 22, has been turned into an early voting center with one-way traffic and multiple voting stations.

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Leadership fights brewing at the State House in coming term The Rhode Island House of Representatives is on a collision course for a leadership fight. Rep. Liana Cassar (D-Barrington) signaled that when she told The Public’s Radio last week that she’s among a group of reps considering a run for speaker. The idea of a freshman lawmaker shooting for the top post in the House might strike some as a stretch. Yet Cassar’s willingness to talk openly about pursuing the speakership also underscores dissatisfaction with the leadership style of House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello (D-Cranston). It’s unclear for now if Mattiello will return to the House, as he faces a competitive race for reelection as a rep with GOP rival Barbara Ann Fenton-Fung. (Mattiello touts his speakership as a success.) Not surprisingly, the House Republican caucus is keeping its options open. “Nothing is outside the realm of possibility,” House Minority Leader Blake Filippi tells me. One top Mattiello critic, Rep. Teresa Tanzi (D-South Kingstown), said at least a dozen representatives are considering running for speaker. Tanzi said she thinks Cassar is the best choice, because Cassar has less baggage than lawmakers with more time in office. If Mattiello loses his rep race, House Majority Leader Joseph Shekarchi (D-Warwick) may remain the favorite to move up. Reps. Gregg Amore (D-East Providence) and Robert Craven (DNorth Kingstown) could also be in play in that scenario. The question, then, is whether the roughly 20 dissidents who didn’t back Mattiello for speaker in 2019 could form a winning coalition with Republicans and others to propel Cassar or a different insurgent. Alternatively, if Mattiello wins reelection in House District 15, would enough of his supporters break away to support someone else for speaker? If so, the idea of someone other than an establishment Democrat leading the House would mark a sharp break with the institutional culture of the

TALKING POLITICS by IAN DONNIS chamber. Yet Mattiello’s governing style and the six-year length of his tenure, combined with a buzz of progressive energy, has sparked this moment. “This has major implications for our entire state,” Tanzi said, since the speaker sets the tone for the level of accountability and transparency in the House, with broad influence over redistricting, the budget, the passage of legislation, and State House hiring and spending. In the Senate Across the rotunda, a generational shift is slowing starting to seep into the Rhode Island Senate. While Dominick Ruggerio has a seemingly strong hold on the presidency, he’s among a cohort of senators whose time in the chamber is gradually winding down. At the same time, the presence of progressive women in the chamber is climbing. That’s the context for Gayle Goldin’s prospective challenge to Ruggerio, as first reported in the ProJo last week. Goldin tells me she wouldn’t be doing this if she didn’t see a path to victory. She said she’s motivated by a vision of running the chamber differently (with more legislative activity during the pandemic, for example) and emphasizing different policies. At the same time, Goldin declined to specify how many senators support her, and she’s not ruling out a statewide run in 2022 for an office such as secretary of state. “We have to see what happens in

the Senate in terms of potential leadership change,” she said. City haul As we move ever closer to 2022, Brett Smiley’s plans to take a second shot at running for mayor of Providence have hardly been a secret. An Ethics Commission agenda item for Tuesday phrases things more tentatively: “Brett P. Smiley, the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Administration, who is interested in exploring the possibility of running for Mayor of the City of Providence, requests an advisory opinion regarding whether the Code of Ethics prohibits him from soliciting and receiving campaign contributions from persons who are not state employees or vendors.” A number of other candidates are expected to join Smiley in the race. COVID update Rhode Island has now done more than 1 million tests for COVID, and the results continue be concerning. Over the last seven days, the positive rate was 2.27 percent. From an update by Lynn Arditi: “New cases this week climbed to 149 per 100,000 population, the highest since May and well above the 100 new case limit set by the governor when the state moved to Phase 3 of the reopening. However, fewer than half as many COVID-19 patients are currently hospitalized as they were in the spring. As of Friday, the state reported 140 hospitalized, compared with a peak of 377 people at the end of April.” Cassar on the issues Short takes from Rep. Cassar’s appearance on Political Roundtable this week: 1) On the absence of legislative sessions as the pandemic continues: “We really have missed out on an opportunity to figure out how to work remotely, how to channel the availability of people to really move the conversation forward. One example: we’ve missed an op-

portunity as an HEW community to talk about what we can be doing statewide around the pandemic.” 2) Cassar said the legislature needs a new process to allow for more time to consider the final budget. 3) Here’s how the Barrington Democrat defines “fair taxation”: “Taxation that is not a significant burden on any one population. Fair taxes, meaning that the tax breaks that accrue to the wealthy currently, are not tax breaks that are experienced by those who are earning less, whose incomes are barely stretching to meet their needs.” Bike Life The serious injuries suffered by Jhamal Gonsalves, who remains in a coma, are making for an ongoing flashpoint between demonstrators and police. My colleague Alex Nunes spent some time with members of the Bike Life community to get their perspective. One rider, who goes by the handle Key, offers this comment: “We’re not doing this to be bad people. We’re doing this because this is what we love. It’s a sport. It’s a hobby. Like, it’s my lifestyle. It’s all I do. If I didn’t have my bike, I don’t know where I’d be. That’s what I’m saying. We trying to get people to put guns down and pick bikes up. We got people that ride with us from all types, sides of the city. They got beef with each other. They will kill each other if they weren’t on these bikes. But when we’re on the bikes, they’re not about that. We ride as a group.” Questionable news The New York Times reports that a network of 1,300 local web sites, including some in Rhode Island, publish coverage ordered up by Republican groups and corporate PR firms. Excerpt: While these sites “generally do not post information that is outright false, the operation is rooted in deception, eschewing hallmarks of news reporting like fairness and transparency. Only a few dozen of the

sites disclose funding from advocacy groups. Traditional news organizations do not accept payment for articles; the Federal Trade Commission requires that advertising that looks like articles be clearly labeled as ads.” GOP rebel You can count on one hand the number of Rhode Island Republicans, present or former, who have publicly rebuked President Trump. Be that as it may, Michael Steele, a senior fellow at the Watson Institute and a former chairman of the Republican National Committee, this week endorsed Democrat Joe Biden for president. Pandemic expert Ed Yong, who has done great reporting on the pandemic for the Atlantic, is set to deliver a virtual lecture at URI at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29. From the university: “‘The COVID-19 pandemic has been a generation-defining challenge that has humbled and humiliated the U.S., leaving past vulnerabilities exposed and future possibilities unclear,’ said Yong. ‘In my lecture, I’ll talk about the unique challenges of reporting on this omni-crisis and my approach to pandemic journalism.’ For Yong, the work has been exhausting as he constantly immerses himself in coronavirus news without let up for months. ‘There are too many stories to cover, too many deaths, too much suffering, too little time,’ he said in a June staff profile in The Atlantic. ‘I’ve just published my fifth 5,000-ishword feature in 10 weeks, and the pace still feels utterly inadequate to the demands of the moment. The stakes are so high. Every day matters.’” Ian Donnis is the political reporter for The Public’s Radio, Rhode Island’s NPR member station. Listen at 89.3 FM or visit thepublicsradio.org. You can sign up for weekly email delivery of Ian’s column each Friday by following this link: lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/PriKkmN/TGIFsignup.

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

What’s on this year’s ballot? By DANIEL KITTREDGE The voters of Cranston have much to decide on in this year’s election. Leading the ballot locally is the contest to succeed Mayor Allan Fung, who is leaving office in January after 12 years as the city’s chief executive. Republican Citywide Councilman Ken Hopkins, Fung’s chosen successor, has fully embraced the current mayor’s legacy and argued that he is best positioned carry on Fung’s record. Democratic candidate Maria Bucci, a former Ward 4 member of the City Council, has made change a centerpiece of her pitch to voters, arguing that she can build a more broadly inclusive administration while preserving fiscal stability. Five of the nine seats on the City Council are being contested this year. The sixperson field for the three citywide seats, all of which are open, includes Republicans Robert Ferri, Nicole Renzulli and Don Roach

and Democrats Jessica Marino, Larry Warner and Dylan Zelazo. In Ward 2, Democratic Councilwoman Aniece Germain faces a challenge from Republican Zac Sailer as she seeks a full term in the seat to which she was appointed earlier this year. In Ward 6, Republican Matthew Reilly and Democrat Paul Bucci are vying to succeed Republican Councilman Michael Favicchio, who is departing due to term limits. Four council members are seeking reelection without opposition – Democratic Ward 1 Councilwoman Lammis Vargas, Democratic Ward 3 Councilman John Donegan, Republican Ward 4 Councilman Ed Brady and Republican Ward 5 Councilman Chris Paplauskas. None of the seven seats on the School Committee are contested this year, and six incumbents are poised to return. In Ward 3, former committee member Domenic Fusco is set to regain the seat he lost to Paul Archetto in 2018. Archetto,

who ran unsuccessfully in the Democratic citywide City Council primary this year, is leaving the committee. In terms of General Assembly races, two Cranston contests have drawn particular attention. In House District 15, Democratic Speaker Nicholas Mattiello faces a challenge from Republican Barbara Ann Fenton-Fung, the mayor’s wife. In House District 16, Democrat Brandon Potter – who defeated incumbent Rep. Christopher Millea in the September primary – is facing Republican Maryann Lancia. Democratic District 14 Rep. Charlene Lima and Democratic District 18 Rep. Arthur Handy are each running for reelection without opposition. In District 17, Democrat Jacquelyn Baginski is also running without opposition to succeed Democratic Rep. Robert Jacquard, who declined to seek reelection. In District 19, which includes parts of Cranston and Warwick, Rep. Joseph McNamara faces a challenge from independent candidate Patrick Maloney Jr. In District 20, Rep. David Bennett, a Democrat whose district includes part of Cranston, is running for a new term without opposition. In District 41, which includes Scituate and parts of Cranston, Republican incumbent Rep. Robert Quattrocchi faces a challenge from Democrat Pamela Carosi. In District 42, which includes portions of Cranston and Johnston, Democrat Edward Cardillo Jr. and Republican Frank Ricci are vying to succeed Democratic Rep. Stephen Ucci, who is not seeking reelection. On the Senate side, Democratic District 26 incumbent Sen. Frank Lombardi is seeking a new term against Republican challenger Anthony Fagundes Sr. In District 27, Democratic incumbent Hanna Gallo has two challengers, Republican Pat Corellessa and independent Jonathan Keith. In District 28, Democratic incumbent Sen. Joshua Miller faces independent Robert Schattle as he seeks a new term. In District 31, which represents portions of Cranston and Warwick, Democrat Kendra Anderson and Republican Scott Zambarano are vying to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Erin Lynch Prata, who is seeking appointment to the Rhode Island Supreme Court. In the state’s Second Congressional District, Democratic incumbent Rep. James Langevin faces a challenge from Republican Robert Lancia, who previously represented state House District 16. Voters also faces a number of ballot questions, led off by the statewide question of whether to remove “Providence Plantations” from the state’s name. Question 2 asks voters to approve a $147 million bond request for Cranston Public Schools, with the funding to support an ambitious fiveyear facilities improvement project. There are a series of city bond questions as well, including $2 million for fire and public safety equipment, $1 million for public buildings, $2 million for playground and athletic fields and $10 million for streets, sidewalks and bridges. Another local bond question, dubbed the “climate bond,” seeks $5 million for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements at municipal buildings. Voters will also decide four proposed amendments to the city’s charter. The first would add language aimed at curbing gerrymandering in the drawing of ward maps, while the second would expand the mayor’s veto authority. The final two questions involve the city’s financial management. The first seeks a new minimum balance requirement for the “rainy day” fund, while the second would establish a new 3 percent annual cap for property tax levy increases. To find a sample ballot and more information, visit vote.sos.ri.gov.

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

AFTER THE SKIRMISH: Officers gather after moving back up Elmwood Avenue into Cranston following the Oct. 21 confrontation with a group of demonstrators. Cranston Police made two arrests during the incident. (Herald photos)

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Elmwood

(Continued from page 1) the Cranston-Providence line near the intersection of Park and Elmwood avenues – and similar, but less intense, events on subsequent nights – can be traced to the afternoon of Oct. 18, when a moped driven by 24-year-old Jhamal Gonsalves crashed at the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Bissell Street. Gonsalves, who was being pursued by Providence Police at the time, remained in critical condition this week. Since the incident, a number of protests have taken place in the capital city over the way police handled the pursuit and the aftermath of the crash. One of the Providence officers involved has been placed on administrative duty pending an investigation. The incident has also brought new attention and focus to the use of ATVs and other off-road vehicles illegally on city streets, particularly in Providence. On Oct. 21, one of the demonstrations in Providence led to the scene of the moped crash. Winquist said before the arrival of the demonstrators, police observed “a number of illegal ATVs and dirt bikes that were driving in a reckless manner” along Elmwood Avenue near the Cranston line. “The decision was made to not permit those vehicles to come into Cranston,” he said. Then, a crowd that Winquist estimates at between 150 and 200 people arrived at the scene. He took issue with the gathering being described as a protest, saying the participants were “more appropriately described as rioters.” “These weren’t people that were there, in my opinion, to peacefully protest,” he said. “They were there to get into a fight with police.” Initially, Winquist said, roughly a dozen Cranston officers were at the scene. Some members of the gathered crowd, he said, began to throw items at the officers – “balloons filled with urine, bottles, other blunt force objects” – leading to a mutual aid call to Providence, Warwick and Rhode Island State Police due to “serious safety concerns to our officers.” He also noted that the presence of broken glass on the road posed a danger to motorists. “They were far outnumbered with the crowd,” he said. Winquist said the officers involved in the response formed a “skirmish line” to “create some distance between ourselves and the crowd at that point.” That posture was maintained until approximately midnight, he said, and the crowd dispersed shortly thereafter. He said during the inci-

VIEW FROM ABOVE: A large stretch of Elmwood Avenue can be seen faintly beyond the police perimeter during the Oct. 21 response. dent, one Cranston cruiser’s windshield was smashed. At the height of the response, he said, approximately 20 Cranston officers were involved. The police action also resulted in two arrests. One was a 16-year-old male who “refused to leave the middle of the street” and was charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and obstructing an officer. The other person arrested, well-known Providence attorney Shannah Kurland, is charged with two counts of simple assault along with charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Through her attorney, Kurland has issued a statement to members of the media saying she was pepper sprayed and arrested after questioning whether Cranston officers at the scene had the authority to enter Providence. Winquist said he stands by the response of his officers as it relates to Kurland’s arrest. He alleges Kurland ignored warnings and “hurled expletives at the officers” before spitting at them. At that point, he said, the pepper spray was used. He cited a video from the scene as supportive of that version of events. “It’s clear she was given numerous warnings to leave the middle of the roadway … She was told to leave, she refused,” he said. The chief also said that was the only case in which Cranston Police used pepper spray during the Oct. 21 response. On Oct. 22, Winquist said police again observed ATVs and other illegal vehicles engaged in the “same activity” on Elmwood Avenue. As a result, the decision was again made to close the roadway’s entrance into Cranston. “Our concern was that we would have a repeat of the night before,” the chief said. That night, a pair of snowplow vehicles from the Department of Public Works were brought to the scene.

Winquist was unsure if they were used to block the road at any point. He said no arrests were made that night. Police monitored the scene on the following nights as well, Winquist said, and in all those cases no similar response was deemed necessary. Asked if he is concerned about similar scenes unfolding going forward, Winquist said: “We hope not, but we’re prepared. If it does, I think we have a sound plan in place.” In terms of the issue of ATVs and other vehicles operating illegally on Cranston streets, Winquist said the activity in the city is “not close to the extent of what you see in Providence.” “Fortunately, we have not experienced the same level of issues with it,” he said. The chief noted that Providence has an ordinance in place allowing law enforcement to seize such vehicles. If activity were to increase, he said, he would support revisiting whether a similar measure might be warranted in Cranston. Regarding enforcement of illegal street vehicle activity, he said: “Obviously, the difficulty is to do it safely. We don’t want anybody to get hurt … It’s a challenging endeavor.” Mayor Allan Fung on Monday said he had been present for the police response on Oct. 22 and some of the subsequent nights. He spoke highly of how officers from Cranston and the other agencies handled the situations. “For safety’s sake, we had to do what we needed to do,” he said, adding: “All I want to let residents know is that we’ll be ready … We’re always going to be mindful of our residents’ safety.” Asked if he has been in contact with Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza about the Oct. 21 incident and nights that followed, Fung said: “Not a single phone call … I’m just worried about Cranston.”

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Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Sports Bolts top Falcons

ON THE MOVE: East’s Savana Lavimodiere. (Photos by Leo van Dijk/rhodyphoto.zenfolio.com)

Lady Bolts seeking first win By ALEX SPONSELLER

point: Moses Brown 2, East 0 The Lady Bolts dropped their opener to Moses Brown. Moses Brown would net scores in each half to complete the shut

The Cranston East girls soccer team is still in search of its first win of the season as it has fallen to an 0-4 start. Here is a recap of the Lady Bolts’ season to this ■

BOLTS- PAGE 19

RIVALRY: East’s Jordan Morales and West’s Vincent Turchetta. (Photos by Leo van Dijk/rhodyphoto.zenfolio.com)

East soccer beats rival West, 2-1 By ALEX SPONSELLER The Cranston East boys soccer team topped visiting rival West 2-1 over the weekend to continue its strong start to the 2020 campaign. Tied 1-1 with less than four minutes remaining in regulation, the Bolts would get the game winner from Carlos Andrade on a pass from Mario Meletz to wrap up the victory. East would take an early lead on a wild goal from 43 yards out from Christian Mestre and would carry the 1-0 advantage into the halftime break.

West’s Nathan Evans knotted the score early in the second half on a pass from Vinny Turchetta. “We had a lot of chances in the first half but we couldn’t get a clear shot in the box. The West goalie (Matt Cataldi) played fantastic. The second half was pretty even, they made runs at it and (East keeper) David White played really well. They were able to tie it up and we didn’t put our heads down and kept plugging away. It was a good win for us,” said East coach Richard Grenier. Grenier added: “The kids really

have grown up quickly this year. Cranston West started five seniors, we only have one senior, so we did a good job especially in the midfield. Louis Reyes and Jose Molina played really well defensively. Sometimes you have to be opportunistic and that first goal that we scored, sometimes you just have to be lucky in a game against your rival and that gave us a lead.” East graduated a large senior core from last year and has been relying heavily on underclassmen and one ■

EAST- PAGE 17

Breaking down recent COVID scare Big news broke last week as the Bishop Hendicken, Pilgrim and La Salle boys soccer teams were forced to put their seasons on hold due to a Hendricken player testing positive for COVID19. Pilgrim and La Salle were forced to quarantine since they played the Hawks during the time period in which the infected ■

PITCH- PAGE 18

My pitch by ALEX SPONSELLER SPORTS E DITOR ALEXS@ RHODYBEAT.COM

Cranston Herald

TURF BATTLE: East’s Louis Reyes and West’s Jacob Morais battle for the ball.

KEEPER: East goalie David White.

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East

(Continued from page 16) senior to start the season. Things have gone well for the Bolts, with the win over West improving its record to 2-0-1 in the division. Grenier has been pleased with his young core. “These kids had a lot of success at junior varsity, they only lost once all last year, so I knew what we had coming up, but that line between varsity and junior varsity is such a big line. These kids have listened to us, we’re not easy at practice, we’ll push them and let them know what they’re doing wrong. During the games, we let the kids make the decisions and they’ve been paying attention. We’ve had some great practices. I’ve been very pleased with their development,” said Grenier. Grenier also credits senior captain Joe Lenk for his leadership in the early going.

“Our scoring has been great, we’ve spread the ball out so well and that bodes well for us and the future. We have a great leader in Joe Lenk in the back. He recognizes things so fast in the back, he clears things out so well, he’s good with the ball in the air, he’s done a great job,” said Grenier. As East looks to stay hot and compete for a championship, the Bolts are simply happy to have a season in general and have been rolling with the punches. “Many people were skeptical coming into the season, but it has not been bad at all,” said Grenier. “We will probably have to do this next year, so we are trying to do the best we can and now we have a system, we haven’t been taking chances. We’re doing as much as we can to make sure the kids stay healthy. The kids are used to it now that we have a routine. They’re just happy to be playing, to go to practice, to be with friends.”

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Cranston Herald

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Senators introduce Fishermen’s Fairness Act Last week Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse introduced Senate Bill S. 4804, the Rhode Island Fishermen’s Fairness Act. The bill would amend the Magnuson-Stevens Act (MSA), the fishing law of this nation, to add Rhode Island to the list of seven states represented on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. The Council is one of eight regional bodies that regulate fishing with NOAA. The Senate bill would give Rhode Island two new voting seats on the council. Many of the fish caught off our coast are regulated by the Mid-Atlantic Council, yet Rhode Island has no representation on the Council. Senator Reed said, “The MidAtlantic Fishery Management Council is a key decision making body that determines what happens off the coast of Rhode Island, but our state doesn’t have a seat on the Council.” Senator Whitehouse, said, “As climate change heats up the oceans, fish that once lived in the warmer mid-Atlantic have migrated north to the waters off New England.” Representatives Jim Langevin and David Cicilline of Rhode Island are expected to introduce a companion bill in the House of Representatives. Ocean-based Climate Solutions Act to address climate change impacts On October 20, 2020, the House Natural Resources Committee Chair Raúl M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.) unveiled his OceanBased Climate Solutions Act with his co-lead, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Chair Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), original cosponsors. The Act was introduced by more than a dozen members of the House of Representatives to address the ocean impacts of climate change and reform federal ocean management to better account for climate mitigation. “A healthy ocean is key to fighting the climate crisis,” Grijalva said last week. “This bill

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Pitch

(Continued from page 16) player could have been contagious prior to testing positive. Overall, there is some good news and bad news. The good news is, of course, the fact that only one player, for now, has tested positive and that everyone appears to be safe. As much as we jump to the sport side of things, this pandemic is a serious virus and the health of humans outweighs fun and games. So for that reason, that is some good news considering the situation. The bad news on the other hand is that sure enough, this virus is still rearing its ugly head into our worlds. I mean, I can’t say that I am surprised that this happened. I actually would have been more surprised had it not happened at some point. The numbers don’t lie. When I first got word that teams were shutting down and a player tested positive, I had a brief moment of panic. As I began reaching out for information, I had a bad feeling that I was going to end up reporting on a major breakout

provides a roadmap for ocean and coastal climate resilience, and responsibly uses them to curb the pollution that is intensifying the climate crisis. We must stop the ongoing damage to our oceans to protect the food, jobs and coastlines that millions of Americans depend on.” “The ocean is a powerful ally in the climate fight, and unleashing its potential will help us reach our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier,” said Rep. Kathy Castor. “The OceanBased Climate Solutions Act incorporates many of the recommendations in our Climate Crisis Action Plan, which gives Congress a roadmap for creating a healthier, more resilient, and more just America. It will unleash the incredible power of the ocean and address the threat that offshore drilling poses to America’s coastal communities”. In Rhode Island and Massachusetts fishers have felt the impact of climate change. The fish I catch today as are charter captain are different in species and abundance that what I caught ten years ago. The cold water fish such as winter flounder, American lobster and cod have left for colder deeper water and warm water fish such as scup and black sea bass are her in greater abundance. So stocks are shifting up and down the east coast. Highlights of the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act: Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The bill supports the transition to a clean energy economy by reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with ocean sectors and increasing oceanbased renewable energy—helping us to move away from fossil fuels and protect the ocean and coastal habitats that are important to healthy fish, marine wildlife, and coastal economies. Increases Carbon Storage in Blue Carbon Ecosystems. The bill recognizes the carbon storage potential and other co-benefits provided by “blue carbon” ecosystems like salt marshes, sea

where many kids would be infected and would spiral into a local crisis. Obviously this virus is a daily crisis, but you get what I mean. Then in terms of the sport, I also had a moment of fear that I would be seeing the demise of the entire season. Luckily, that is not the case, either. The three teams are in quarantine and will be until two weeks from the time they played, the kids will continue to be monitored, and the games lost have already been rescheduled and will likely not affect the overall league schedule. I’ll give credit to the league and the three mentioned schools, as well as the department of health, for nipping this problem in the bud and getting ahead of it instead of falling behind. These teams dodged a bullet, big time, and will work their way back to the field in another week or so. Most of all, this virus was contained. It’s a shame that a player is going through this. Whether he is asymptomatic, mildly sick, very sick, I am not sure of how he is feeling, but no matter what, it is a scary situation to be in and I hope all is well for him and his family.

No Fluke

BY CAPTAIN DAVE MONTI

grasses, and mangroves. These ecosystems absorb carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and safely store it at a rate that of forests on land. They also protect coastal communities by limiting the impacts of coastal erosion, flooding, and storms—all while providing habitat for marine wildlife and fisheries. Promotes Coastal Resiliency and Adaptation to protect our coasts and communities from the climate impacts we can’t avoid. It authorizes investment in coastal restoration and resilience that is a win-win-win for our economy, our frontline communities, and our environment. Other key components of the bill include improving ocean protection, supporting climate ready fisheries, addressing ocean health challenges, and restoring U.S. leadership in international ocean governance. A text of the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act can be viewed at https://bit.ly/37CBNKP, a section-by-section summary at https://bit.ly/2HreuYY and a fact sheet on the bill can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3m35EzP. Where’s the bite? Tautog, scup and black sea bass. Tautog fishing has been excellent with anglers catching their limit (five fish/person/day, 16-inch minimum size, 10 fish/boat maximum) in the lower Bay and off the coastal shore from the Sakonnet River month down to Watch Hill. I fished the West Passage

It is also scary for those on the same team as him. Those kids and their families were in close proximity likely for a handful of days. I’m sure they are all holding their breaths as well as they try to get through this week here. The only question that I do have though is this: Why did Pilgrim and La Salle have to shut things down, but when the Smithfield cross country team had a positive test, none of their opponents had to? Let me be very clear, I am all for Pilgrim and La Salle being shut down. Better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to kids. It’s not worth the slightest risk. So why did no other cross country teams have to be shut down? I understand that soccer is usually played in closer proximity than cross country. Players make contact with one another, use the same equipment, all of that. However, and I know this from watching cross country this fall, cross country is really not that much different. Sure, the sport does not require contact between runners. But at the end of the day, kids start within feet of each other at the starting lines, gather with each other and

north of the Jamestown Bridge and did well in 20 feet off water off the west side of Jamestown. Neil Hayes of Quaker Lane Bait & Tackle said, “Anglers are limiting out fishing in fairly low water (20-30 feet of water) for this time of year. They are fishing rock piles with success in the lower Bay around Newport, Jamestown and Narraganset. Customers are still catching large sea bass and scup when tautog fishing.” John Littlefield of Archie’s Bait & Tackle, Riverside, said, “Few keepers are being caught in the Providence River, just a lot of shorts but the bite south of Conimicut Light is outstanding with many angler catching their limit with 6, 7 and 8-pound fish in the mix. Newport Brenton Reef area is yielding tautog and some large scup and balck sea bass. I would expect the scup will leave this week as the water gets colder.” Harrison Gatch of Watch Hill Outfitters, Westerly said, “The tautog bite is great with customs catching them everywhere, from shore and boats on just about every rock pile. Last week we weighted in a 13-pound fish so there are fish of size being caught.” Striped bass and blue fish. “Anglers are catching striped bass from the southern coastal beaches and just about off every Breachway. Pt. Judith area is yielding fish from shore and boats, with Bay anglers doing well off Jamestown and Newport.” said Neil Hayes of Quaker Lane. “Fishing for striped bass from the beaches has slowed down with slot fish (28” to less than 35”) being caught occasionally as the fish move in and off the beaches. The bluefish bite is off and false albacore are not being caught either,” said Harrison Gatch of Watch Hill. “Striped bass fishing in the Narragansett Bay from shore at Bullocks Cove and Kettle Point is OK. Anglers catching school size bass with an occasional keeper mixed in using soft plastic shad lures,” said Littlefield of Archie’s.

coaches before and after races, give each other high fives, use the same facilities, and see their families. The only difference that I see here is that kids aren’t touching each other during gameplay. Is there a difference? Yes. Is there a real, measurable difference? Not really. Like I said, I am not complaining because some teams had to shut down and others didn’t. That’s not the point that I am making. I actually am just throwing that point out there and thinking out loud. There seems to be a gap somewhere here. Regardless, let’s be happy that this virus is contained and that we have made it halfway through the fall without a serious outbreak. Let it also be a reminder that this virus is still very much alive and that we need to continue to be diligent in following precautions and making the right decisions. Things may not be as lucky the next time. On a more positive note, the Rhode Island Interscholastic League will be holding playoffs across all fall sports next month. There was some doubt heading into the season as to whether or not this would be the case. Every-

STATE TAUTOG RECORD: Conrad Sundquist of Cranston caught this record tautog, 21 pounds, 4 ounces, off Beavertail. At one point the fish also held the world record for 20 pound test line. “Freshwater fishing is good with a lot of action in ponds stocked with trout earlier this month by DEM. Silver Spring Lake, North Kingstown and Carbuncle Pond, Coventry are performing well for anglers,” said Hayes of Quaker Lane Bait & Tackle. “Low water conditions slowed pond stocking in the area. So not a lot of anglers are freshwater fishing,” said Gatch of Watch Hill. Littlefield of Archie’s Bait said, “Freshwater fishing for bass has slowed and with the cold weather this week it is expected to drop off more.” Dave Monti holds a captain’s master license and a charter fishing license. He is a RISAA board member, a member of the RI Party & Charter Boat Association, the American Saltwater Guides Association and the RI Marine Fisheries Council. Forward fishing news and photos to Capt. Dave at dmontifish@verizon.net or visit www.noflukefishing.com and his blog at www.noflukefishing.blogspot.com

one seemed to be optimistic, but there was definitely some uncertainty. Now that the league has provided the outlines in terms of dates and rounds of action, we can now look forward to postseason play. We still have a couple weeks of regular season remaining, but now that we have the layout, it will make the final stretch here even more fun and exciting to watch. I’ll be frank, although some sports are better than no sports, having a season without a road to a championship would have been ridiculous. I’ll repeat, some sports are better than no sports, but we all know that a season without playoffs would not have felt like a season at all. Think back to March when things blew up and out worlds were turned upside down. We were right in the thick of the winter playoffs … which are some of the most exciting weeks of the year. Then seemingly out of nowhere, things were shut down and everyone felt shortchanged. We now get to see playoff action once again, so let’s circle our calendars and buckle up for the last leg of the season.

Cranston Herald

â–

Bolts

(Continued from page 16) out. East keeper Zasia Barron had a solid day in net, recording nine saves. North Providence 3, East 0 North Providence came out strong offensively to hand the Bolts their second loss of the year. Barron and Madison Pappas combined for 14 stops in net for East in the loss. East Providence 4, East 1 Despite falling to the host Townies last week to drop to 0-3, the Bolts were able to record their first goal of the season on a score from Evelyn Vallee. Barron and Pappas combined for 11 saves in net. West Warwick 3, East 1 The Lady Bolts once again scored against visiting West Warwick, getting a goal from Kylie McCreavy and an assist from Savana Lavimodiere. Barron and Pappas recorded 18 saves overall in net.

HITTING THE FIELD: Cranston Eastâ€™s Kylie McCreavy (left) and Alany Avila (right).

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OVERLOOKING NARRAGANSETT BAY Eat-In Buy One Get One or Warwick’s Waterfront Dining Experience

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RhodyLife

Thursday, October 29, 2020

BLENDING STYLES: Kaitlyn Tarro and her band will bring a blend of blues, rock and pop to the patio of Ted’s Stadium Kitchen & Pub in Cranston on Oct. 30. (Courtesy of Kaitlyn Tarro)

Kaitlyn Tarro does music her own way at Ted’s Stadium Kitchen & Pub By ROB DUGUAY Smithfield’s Kaitlyn Tarro doesn’t like to put her music into one style. She doesn’t consider her songs to be classified to a single genre, and honestly that’s refreshing. She has a genuine love for performing and is willing to be a part of local contests like Wakefield Idol in South County. On top of that, she recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music from Rhode Island College in Providence and she has also studied voice at the illustrious Berklee College of Music in Boston. Tarro will be exhibiting her skills on the mic and guitar with her band on the patio of Ted’s Stadium Kitchen & Pub, located at 1145 Park Ave. in Cranston, on Oct. 30. We had a talk before the show about being passionate about her craft, keeping things original, finishing up college while adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic and getting spooky with the setlist. ROB DUGUAY: What inspired you to pursue music? KAITLYN TARRO: The absolute passion for it. When I was younger, I got into music a lot with some choirs and stuff, and in high school I remember there was a petition on whether to cancel the music department. I wasn’t even a part of it and I was like, “How is this possible?” And I started protesting and all of that. Then the department head came up to me and said, “We should really get you in here to start singing,” and it all blossomed from there. RD: That’s a great story. You mentioned in the bio on your Facebook page that you consider your style of music to fit into blues, rock and pop. Do you have a preference between the three genres or do you like each of them equally? KT: I’d say that I like them all equally. For my own sound, I try to blend them into While many people we have talked with are still reluctant to sit in a movie theatre, we have returned to the Warwick Showcase and the Avon for matinees, where there have only even a handful of patrons sitting, as people always have in movie theatres, at great distance from each other. Rustic Drive-In has been drawing weekend crowds and plans to stay open until the first snow falls. Unfortunately, there has been slim pickings at the Showcase, unless you are a fan of horror flicks or old movies. Showcase has added a faith-based film, “Pray.” It tells the story of Patrick Peyton, an Irish immigrant who came to America in 1928 and slowly attracted a large following. He is remembered for his saying, “The family that prays together, stays together.” The Avon has held over

something that’s a mixture of the three. I’m not even sure what you would call it, but I like to make the three styles shine in their own way. RD: I get that. You have to keep it original and keep it fresh. KT: Yeah. RD: You also just recently graduated from Rhode Island College this past spring. When COVID-19 hit back in March, how was the sudden adjustment to shifting to virtual online classes for you? KT: Doing it in the music department, everything translated in a totally different way. We had to pick up all of the performances and all of the ensembles for everything and figure out how to bring that to a virtual experience. RD: It must have been a weird time to have everything change on you like it did. KT: Absolutely. RD: From going to RIC, what did you learn the most as a musician that you didn’t know before you attended? Was it anything with arrangements or theory or even how you carry yourself on stage? KT: I would say that learning music theory was absolutely huge for me. I knew a little bit about it growing up but I didn’t really start learning it until my senior year of high school and then I went up to RIC. I also learned to embrace stage presence as well and I studied a lot of classical music versus what I do now but I’ve translated those techniques into something different. RD: With the upcoming show at Ted’s Stadium Kitchen & Pub being the night before Halloween, do you and your band have anything special planned? KT: We definitely have a couple of spookier songs picked out, which will be a lot of fun. I also will be wearing a costume so there will be some surprise with that. To learn more, follow the Kaitlyn Tarro Band’s Facebook page or visit kaitlyntarroband.com.

See it at the

h n wit Do & e l r e yc Fow Jo

M ovies “On the Rocks” starring Bill Murray, but not the documentary “Escape From Extinction.” The much acclaimed “Martin Eden” opens Friday. NETFLIX “Rebecca” a remake of the 1940 film based on the novel by Daphne Du Moirier, stars Lily James and Armie Hammer, and should hold your interest for a couple of hours. A romantic mystery about a common girl who marries into a wealthy family and is haunted by her husband’s wife’s ghost, it has some good acting and lots of atmosphere.

“My Octopus Teacher,” Craig Foster’s documentary about a South African man’s obsession with an octopus, is a must for anyone who has ever snorkeled or scuba dived and is interested in life beneath the sea. I was mesmerized for an hour and a half. I am watching season one of the BBC series “Broadchurch,” about a young boy who is murdered in a seacoast village, where just about everybody becomes a suspect. It has me hooked, and I hope it maintains its momentum. Rotten Tomatoes critics and viewers rated it in the 90s.

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Thursday, October 29, 2020

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Loren Spears

Tomaquag Museum director joins National Assembly of State Arts Agencies board The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) announced today that Council member Loren Spears has been appointed to the board of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA). the professional association of the nation’s 56 state and jurisdictional arts agencies. NASAA is a national, nonpartisan organization that champions public support for the arts in America. As a board member of NASAA, Spears joins others from throughout the nation in advancing the work of state arts agencies that support arts and culture here in Rhode Island and throughout the United States. Spears was appointed to the State Arts Council board in 2018 by Gov. Gina M. Raimondo. She is the executive director of the Tomaquag Museum in Exeter. Rhode Island’s only Indigenous Museum, the Tomaquag is dedicated to sharing Native culture, arts and history from a First Person perspective. The Tomaquag Museum features an exten-

sive collection and archive that focuses on Tribal Communities of Southern New England. RISCA Executive Director Randall Rosenbaum applauded the appointment of Spears to the NASAA board. “Loren is a cultural leader here in Rhode Island,” said Rosenbaum, “and she will represent our state and other states and territories on this national board. She will also speak for the important contribution of Native artists and communities throughout the country. We couldn’t be happier to have Loren serve in this capacity.” Remarking on her appointment, Spears said, “I am thrilled to be serving on the NASAA board advancing the arts and culture across this country. As an Indigenous person, I am proud to represent Rhode Island and Native community locally and nationally. “ The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies is the membership organization that serves the nation’s state and jurisdictional arts agencies. NASAA

Got community news? Email DanK@RhodyBeat.com or call 732-3100, ext. 234

helps state arts agencies fulfill their many citizen service roles by providing knowledge services, representation and leadership programs that strengthen the state arts agency community. NASAA also serves as a clearinghouse for data and research about government support for arts and culture in America, supplying statistical data, policy analysis and information on exemplary practices. For more information on the work of state arts agencies, call 202-347-6352 or visit nasaa-arts.org . The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts is a state agency supported by appropriations from the Rhode Island General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. RISCA provides grants, technical assistance and staff support to arts organizations and artists, schools, community centers, social service organizations and local governments to bring the arts into the lives of Rhode Islanders. Visit arts.ri.gov for more information.

RhodyLife

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Fall is perfect time for Matunuck Oyster Bar Restaurant review by DON FOWLER When I asked Joyce where she wanted to dine on her 80th birthday, there was no hesitation – Matunuck Oyster Bar! An easy ride south down Interstate 95 to Route 4 to East Matunuck Road, past the colorful trees takes you to the restaurant and oyster farm. It was 4 p.m. on a warm and sunny late October day. The parking lot was already full and cars were starting to line up along the road. The popular restaurant is no longer just a summer tourist destination. It wasn’t long ago when the restaurant was a small bar and dining area. It the last two years a second floor and a deck on top of that were added. Additional seating has expanded on the porch and under a large tent, complete with heat lamps. We requested a table for two overlooking the oyster pond, enjoying a perfect view.

Take-out orders were lined up on the closed bar as we passed the oyster shuckers and took our socially distanced seats. You have to start off your meal with the best Bloody Mary in Rhode Island. (Sorry, Twin Oaks. You are still No. 2.) The tall drink comes with a huge celery stick, lemon, olive and oyster. It is spicy and delicious. The raw bar features a “Buck a Shuck” Monday through Thursday, with Matunuck oysters only a dollar each. But this was Friday, so we chose the Oyster Sampler, an assortment of a dozen local oysters for $24. We enjoyed the large Quonset ones and of course the in-house grown Matununck ones best. I chose one of the restaurant’s specialties – Jambalaya, consisting of tender, juicy fried oysters, two jumbo shrimp, chicken and a spicy andouille sausage in a Cajun tomato sauce over rice ($21.95). Joyce topped off her oyster evening with fried oysters, lightly fried to perfec-

tion, with fries, coleslaw and remoulade sauce ($22.95). After you have eaten Matunuck’s fried oysters, you will not want to order them anywhere else. I do have one idiosyncrasy – I love French fries with remoulade sauce, stealing half of Joyce’s. We usually do not order dessert, but it was Joyce’s birthday, so she indulged in the very sinful flourless chocolate torte with raspberry puree and whipped cream ($6.95). I do want to return for lunch and try their Oyster Stew, which is made with sweet potatoes, parsnips, leeks and bacon and simmered in a rich rosemary cream with herb butter poached oysters ($14.95). The extensive menu also includes scallops, tuna, salmon, lobster, king crab, whole belly clams and fish and chips, and saw some appetizing dishes being served. But when you go to a steak house, your order steak. When we go to an oyster bar, we order oysters.

New Edgewood Village group provides support for older adults By DON FOWLER There is a new organization forming in Edgewood with an important goal – helping older adult members to live full lives in their own homes and community. Co-chair Sylvia Weber and other members of the newly formed board were on hand at the Edgewood Farmers Market last Saturday to promote Edgewood Village, a nonprofit mutual support organization dedicated to helping older adults maintain independence in their Edgewood home. The Village Common of Rhode Island started on the

East Side of Providence in 2014 and expanded to Barrington in 2020. The growing concept has now added Edgewood to its list, reaching out to educate and inform the community of their volunteer opportunities and member benefits. Membership benefits may include rides provided by volunteers, assistance with errands, technology help with phones, tablets and computers, help with household chores and light maintenance, social and cultural events, classes and special in-

terest groups. Volunteer opportunities include drivers, tech support, errands, office help, home help, friendly calls, home visiting and event planning. “Volunteers do not have to be members,” Weber said. “And members do not have to be volunteers. But the are encouraged to do so.” Member fees run from $10 to $60 a month, depending on one’s personal situation, and are negotiable. For more information, or to join, call 441-5250 or visit villagecommonri.org.

Wickford Art Association opens National Photography Exhibit, announces winners Oct. 23 marked the opening of the Wickford Art Association’s National Photography Exhibit. With over 200 entries from across the U.S., the exhibit consists of 78 works representing varied photographic techniques, subjects, and presentation styles. The curated works and prizes were determined by New England-based visual storyteller David Helfer Wells (davidhwells.com). The exhibit will be accessible in-gallery through Nov. 15. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m. A virtual gallery will be posted to the exhibit’s webpage, wickfordart.org/annual-photography-exhibit2. WAA is thrilled to announce the award-winning

selections from our National Photography Exhibit: First Prize “BLM: The Things They Carried” by Kim Williams (West Virginia), Digital Print Second Prize “Into Dreamland” by Michael Potts (Arizona), Digital Archival Print Third Prize “Self Portrait as Housewife (Who He Wanted Me to Be)” by Lily Colman (Pennsylvania), Digital C-print) Honorable Mentions “Burning It Up” by John Pitocco (Rhode Island), Photography, and “Covid Isolation” by Jean Duffy (Rhode Island), Photography Judge’s Awards “Crossing Over” by Gene Suponski (Connecticut), B&W Digital Photography, and “Stitching the Sunlight” by Martha Wakefield (Massachusetts), Digital Collage

Small Works holiday show, sale coming up On Friday, Nov. 20, the Wickford Art Association (WAA) will open the annual Small Works: Holiday Show/Sale featuring small pieces of fine art from up to 45 member-artists. All works are 14 inches or less and cost between $10 and $300. Offerings range from collage to sculpture, prints to oil paintings – all original work by some of Rhode Island’s finest professional artists as well as really accomplished hobbyists! A great time to support local artists and either collect some unique pieces of artwork or purchase some interesting holiday gifts, WAA’s gallery will be open

to the public each Wednesday through Saturday (noon to 4 p.m.) and Sunday (noon to 3 p.m.), with one extra final day of shopping on Tuesday, Dec. 22 (noon to 4 p.m.). A sample gallery of works for sale will be posted online at wickfordart.org by Nov. 6. This show/sale runs Nov. 20 through Dec. 22. More information is available on the 2020 Small Works webpage, wickfordart.org/small-works-holiday-sale-2 Please note: The dates of this sale are different from those announced in early 2020 and published on the WAA 2020 Exhibit Calendar.

RhodyLife

Thursday, October 29, 2020

A young immigrant’s wanderlust Adalgisa Nancy Ciano was only 10 months old when she and her family arrived in America on Dec. 30, 1921, aboard the Dante Alighieri. Natives of Italy, they settled on Kingwood Avenue in Cranston and Adalgisa’s 40-year-old father, Paolo Luigi Ciano, secured work with his new country’s Works Progress Administration. Paolo and his wife, Maria Civita, were the parents of 10 children. If that wasn’t enough to keep them on their toes, Adalgisa’s wanderlust certainly would. The young girl, who attended Hugh B. Bain Public School, had dreams of seeing the world outside of Rhode Island. On four occasions, her brother-in-law, James

Back in the Day by KELLY SULLIVAN

Corio, went off in search of her when she independently ventured off to New York or Boston. In July 1938, the 17-year-old went more than a few steps further. Paolo had given his daughter his weekly paycheck for $27.50,

which he told her she could use to purchase clothing with. Adalgisa cashed the check and fled. She went on to New York and enlisted the services of the Travelers Aid Society, a female-led organization that provided single women with safe escort to transportation facilities or lodging. There, she met two other girls. Eighteen-year-old Marjorie Robinson had traveled to the Big Apple from Stillwell, Oklahoma. Nineteen-year-old Dorothy Newman had come from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she was a ward of the juvenile court. Adalgisa stayed in New York for two weeks. While her parents issued reports about her disappearance, she and her new friends

were planning an adventure on the high seas. On July 20, the girls secretly boarded the R.M.S. Queen Mary. The ship arrived in Southampton on July 25. There, the authorities caught up to them. Adalgisa and the other two girls were placed aboard the Aquitania on July 27 and brought back to America from England as “returned stowaways.” The ship docked at Ellis Island in New York on Aug. 2. However, Adalgisa’s adventure was far from over. Paolo’s naturalization papers would not be certified until the following month. Because Adalgisa was a minor and her father was not yet a legal citizen of the United States, she was not eligible to re-enter the country.

Corio, who was the husband of her older sister Rosalia, immediately ventured out to New York where the young girl was allowed to talk to him and her mother. As an immigrant, she needed to be arraigned before a United States commissioner and remain there at Ellis Island until a verdict was issued regarding what actions would be taken. Adalgisa returned home to Cranston soon after. In the years that followed, she married Thomas Paglio and put down roots with a family of her own. After her death on Feb. 29, 2004, was laid to rest in Saint Ann Cemetery. Kelly Sullivan is a Rhode Island columnist, lecturer and author.

RhodyLife

Thursday, October 29, 2020

LOTS TO SEE: Rebecca Simone, her son Louie, best friend Meg Clark and daughter Bardi stroll the Outside Marketplace Saturday. The Marketplace is held every Saturday through Dec. 12, weather permitting, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pawtuxet Village Park.

ARMS CROSSED: Tina Bingham, chair of the Gaspee Days Arts and Crafts Festival, has her arms and fingers crossed that there will be a 2021 Gaspee Days.

Being outside & feeling normal J

ean Williams of Middletown still has the sewing machine her mother gave her when she was 16. And she puts it to good use. Usually by this time of year she will have done multiple craft shows where she sells her blankets, towels and scarves. But the pandemic put a stop to that. Then she learned of the Outside Marketplace hosted by the city of Warwick at Pawtuxet Village Park every Saturday through Dec. 12 and liked what she saw. She felt comfortable being outside and she liked the measures being taken to ensure distancing. This is the only show she has done all year. Other vendors share her enthusiasm for an outdoor show and especially for some return to normalcy, as do the shoppers. Rebecca Simone had barely entered the park before discovering she couldn’t resist a Halloween themed sign. A Rhode Island native, Rebecca and he

family now live in New Jersey. Not knowing what travel restrictions might be imposed during the holidays she didn’t want to miss an opportunity to visit her mother. With her two children in tow, Bradi and Louie, she and her “best friend” Meg Clark spent a good part of the morning discovering what more than 35 vendors had to offer. But it was more than that – it was being outside, meeting and talking with people although they were masked and made a point of not crowding. Russell Moore, the city’s director of economic development and tourism, and Debbie Wood, who knows the crafts fair community, staged the first of the Saturday markets on Columbus Day weekend. A $40,000 “take it outside” state grant will enable to city to purchase a 60 by 80-foot tent with heaters that will be erected in the park. Moore said the tent will accommodate

20 vendors properly distanced. The tent is on order and may arrive in time to be erected for this Saturday. Yet if the weather Saturday is anything like last Saturday, a tent won’t be needed. Tina Bingham, chair of the Gaspee Days Memorial Day arts and crafts show that was canceled this year because of the virus, found some of her vendors at the event, leaving her to hope next year’s festival, as well as Gaspee Days, will be a go. Overall, she thought the Outside Marketplace was a great idea. Linda Affonseca who was assisting her mother Judy Bissell of JB Designs with her display smiled as musicians, who also had a table, played along with some big band tracks from the 1960s. “I’m starting to feel normal,” she said. Text and photos by John Howell

CRAFTS BY JEAN: Jean Williams and her friend Kerry Seibert were pleased to get outside and do a crafts show, especially one that supports a nonprofit. Vendors are charged $25 with the money going to support the Warwick K-9 team.

HELPING MAKE A SALE: Charlotte O’Gorman and Owen Barrientos show off some of the gluten-free and high-vitamin goodies found at the Sanos Sweets.

THIS ART ROCKS: Rocks, shells and sea glass all go into the rock art creations of Lidia Goodinson. Here she holds a framed rock art dog with the declaration, “If our dog doesn’t like you, we probably don’t either.” At left: Carissa Meekins and her mother Sandra Meekins operate Divas Dips, which uses Belgian chocolate to offer a wide selection of tempting delights from candied apples to caramel popcorn and chocolate bark. They use the Mill Race Kitchen in Woonsocket and have discovered their apples are especially popular at this time of year.

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The Rhode Island Library Association (RILA) presented its annual awards at the RILA Annual Conference, which was held virtually on Thursday, May 28, through Friday, May 29, on Zoom. The theme for the conference was “Think Outside the Books,” and the recipients of this year’s awards exemplify the library community’s commitment to finding creative solutions to contemporary challenges. “We had hoped to hold an in-person ceremony at some point to recognize the achievements of our award winners,” said RILA president Julie Holden, “but it might be many more months before we can do so. We want to formally congratulate this year’s recipi-

ents with the hope that we will be able to celebrate in person at a later date.” The 2020 RILA Award winners are: Library Champion Award: Ida D. McGhee (retired) founder of Cornucopia of RI (CORI), a library community of color, and advocate for the power of libraries to change our world. Outstanding Librarian Award: Jana Stevenson, Director of Warwick Public Library. Outstanding Library Paraprofessional Award: Emily Greene, Head of Interlibrary Loan at the University of Rhode Island’s Robert L. Carothers Library. Trustee of the Year Award: Stephen Cicilline, Chair of the Greenville Public Library Board of Trustees.

Meritorious Friend of the Library Award: Michelle Lefort, for her volunteer work at Primrose Hill School Library, Hampden Meadows School Library, Barrington Middle School Library, and Barrington Public Library. Special thanks to Carla Weiss (Rhode Island College, retired) and Jim Kinnie (University of Rhode Island, retired) for their decades of service leading RILA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee. Through the years, Carla and Jim have led RILA in championing the value of intellectual freedom in addressing the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the USA PATRIOT Act, banned books, patron privacy and confidentiality, and net neutrality.

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Thursday, October 29, 2020

RhodyLife

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Don’t turn your back to the fire Presidential candidates have long been known to try anything to win an election. The only “clean election” was the first one, where George Washington spent his entire campaign budget to purchase liquor to serve to his potential voters. (Perhaps the TIMING of this dispensation, along with the fact that he was running unopposed, had something to do with the overwhelmingly positive vote for George.) Thomas Jefferson secretly hired a writer to attack John Adams, his opponent, in print. The author wrote that Adams was a “hideous hermaphroditical character with neither the force of a gentleman nor the gentleness of a woman.” Adams retaliated by labeling Jefferson “a mean spirited, low life fellow, the son of a half-breed Indi-

Life Matters with LINDA PETERSEN

an squaw and sired by a Virginia mulatto father.” Interesting lingo was also slung in the election year with John Quincy and Andrew Jackson. Jackson called John Quincy a “pimp” and Quincy called Jackson’s wife a “slut” and his mother a “prostitute.”

Lyndon Johnson’s race against Barry Goldwater was historically nasty, with Johnson destroying Goldwater’s character with the assistance of a secret, “after hours” smear team. During pre-election sparring, candidate Stephen Douglas called Abraham Lincoln “two faced,” to which Lincoln replied, “If I had another face, do you think I would wear this one?” This year’s candidates have characteristically been slinging campaign mud against each other. Trump continues to bring up the “witch hunt” of the Russian investigation, and Biden continues to hold back a snicker and roll his eyes when he hears it. Biden, from a working, Irish family, uses the sophisticated term “malarkey” to describe facts he be-

lieves Trump is misrepresenting. (This word, often used by those with Irish-American heritage, means “lies” or “exaggerations.”) A huge non-event has been Trump’s refusal to release his taxes. Had he done so earlier, it may not have had such a direct effect on his campaign. Never in the history of elections has a presidential candidate refused to disclose his real income, or, should I say, nonincome. The most divisive topic is COVID-19, which has killed more than 225,000 Americans. Trump tries to reassure everyone that it is being handled, we have turned the corner and it is going away. Biden, on the other hand, criticizes Trump’s handing of the virus, and has warned that the nation is heading toward a “dark winter.”

The election in 1800 was so heated that Vice President Aaron Burr ended up killing Alexander Hamilton in a duel. The way this year’s election has been going, I can only imagine a repeat of this between our current presidential candidates. As long as there are at least two political parties, there will be differences of opinion. Judging by the drama associated with elections in earlier years, this year could not be worse than the year Burr killed Hamilton. Or can it? This quote from Abraham Lincoln sums it all up: “Elections belong to the people. It is their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.” Don’t sit on your blisters. Vote!