Staycation 2019

Staycation RhodyBeat

presents

GUIDE

June 2019

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT FROM

Beacon Communications View this section online @ www.rhodybeat.com

Staycation GUIDE • June 2019 • 2

Rockwell Amusements

Food • Games • Rides

June 6 to 9 St. Anthony Parish Feast

Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence

June 12 to 16 Carnival

McCoy Stadium, Pawtucket

June 20 to 23 St. Francis De Sales Parish Festival 6975 Post Road,North Kingstown

June 21 to 23 St Barnabas Parish Festival East Main Road,Portsmouth

June 26 to July 4 4th of July Carnival Town Commons, Bristol

July 17 to 21 St. Mary Feast

Phenix Ave., Cranston, RI

July 31 to August 3 Holy Trinity Parish Carnival (Formerly our lady, Queen of Martyrs) Park Square, Woonsocket

August 2 to 4 Seafood Festival

Ninigret Park, Charlestown

August 9 to 11 CumberlandFest

Diamond Hill Park, Cumberland

August 9 to 11 Our Lady of the Rosary Feast Traverse St., Providence

Providing Family Fun For Everyone All Summer Long!

August 14 to 18 Washington County Fair Richmond

September 14 to 16 MBA Fall Fest

Misquamicut Beach, Westerly, RI

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Local venues offer range of arts, entertainment options for families staying local this summer

By DANIEL KITTREDGE Planning a staycation this summer?

From the Providence area to the scenic shoreline of South County, family-friendly options are available to make the arts a memorable part of your itinerary.

Artists’ Exchange, located at 50 Rolfe Square in Cranston, and its nearby affiliates, Theatre 82 and Characters Café at 82 Rolfe Square, combine to provide community members with a wide range of artistic, creative and educational experiences in support of a worthy cause.

Emily Urban, marketing and promotional coordinator for Artists’ Exchange, said all three entities operate as part of the nonprofit Gateways to Change Inc., which is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the developmental disabled in community settings.

“Our mission is natural integration …

We foster natural, organic relationships,” she said.

The upcoming season’s calendar at Artists’ Exchange offers a number of opportunities for families to enjoy the café’s dining options and take in a show.

Among the summer centerpieces will be the return of the One Act Play Festival for its 14th year. The festival runs from July 1127, and it features short plays submitted by local, regional and national playwrights and selected by a panel of directors and actors.

“It’s all family friendly and suitable for all ages,” Urban said of the festival, for which Jessica Chace provides artistic direction.

In search of activities for children during a staycation? Artists’ Exchange can help with that, too.

In August, Artists’ Exchange Youth Theater Program will host “Camp Cabaret,” which will provide young actors, singers and dancers with instruction in musical theater from experienced directors. The camp culminates with a cabaret-style scenes program.

Artists’ Exchange's summer camps run from June 17 through Aug. 30, providing art, theater, animation, ceramics and rock ‘n’ roll programming and more for children

FUN WITH GRANDMA: Cranston resident Ava Gendreau, 3, was accompanied by her grandmother Joann Roberto during a recent Craft Bash at the Artists’ Exchange. Together, they created a collage featuring some of Ava’s favorite things. (Photo by Steve Popiel)

ages 5 to 14. Before and after-care is also available for the camps, which run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

In terms of ongoing children’s program offerings, free Craft Bash events are held on the last Saturday of each month, offering art activities that double as enrichment opportunities and tie into core educational subject. Artists’ Exchange also puts on birthday parties for children, with themes of art, theater or ceramics available.

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit artists-exchange.org.

Characters Café’s menu and hours can be found at characterscafe.org.

Want a close-to-home getaway while vacationing locally? The historic Theatre by the Sea in Matunuck may have just what you’re looking for.

Past visitors to the area know its seaside setting and natural beauty well. Bill Hanney, owner of Theatre by the Sea, encouraged families to plan for a full evening – starting, for example, with a meal in the casual atmosphere at the adjoining Bistro by the Sea around 5 p.m., followed by a walk around the grounds before the show. On ■

cabaret nights, he added, patrons have a chance to meet the performers after the show at the bistro.

“The area is beautiful … It’s a great night out,” he said. “We have the restaurant, which is fabulous. The grounds are gorgeous.”

The coming season at Theatre by the Sea promises to be one to remember.

“Love and Other Fables” – described as a “new romantic screwball comedy” set on the Greek island of Samos in 600 B.C. Creative - page 14

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Get creative

Staycation GUIDE • June 2019 • 4

Summer fun that is close to home

Summer is prime vacation season when travelers take trips to every corner of the world. While faraway destinations abound, those looking for fun can also find enjoyable activities much closer to home.

Many communities come alive during the warmer weather, hosting an array of locally driven events. People looking for a day of entertainment or an evening of excitement may be able to find an event that’s just a short car ride away. Pick up a local newspaper or log on to your town’s official website to browse a listing of events in your community this summer. Here are a few events you’re bound to find.

Carnivals and fun fairs: Open land or empty parking lots can be transformed into bustling carnivals in a matter of days. Carnivals or fairs may be sponsored by private businesses or local religious organizations looking to raise funds. Some fairs are established by the county

and attract participants from near and far. Carnivals often boast a wide array of entertainment, from amusement park-style rides to games of chance to music.

Summer concert series: Summer concerts series typically begin when the weather warms up, and music may not stop playing until Labor Day. Concerts may range from more intimate affairs that attract a few dozen people to a town square to larger events at beaches and boardwalks that draw thousands of visitors.

Food festivals: Various towns close down their Main Streets from time to time to accommodate food festivals that feature a variety of cuisines. Some food festivals may feature one ingredient, such as garlic or cheese, while others may delve deeper and offer broader menus. Food festivals allow visitors to sample many different treats and may serve to advertise for neighborhood eating establishments.

Street fairs: Street fairs also may close down thoroughfares in town. These events usually bring together a variety of vendors selling their wares in an open market setting. You can make a day of touring all of the vendor booths and buying handmade items from local artisans.

Outdoor movies: Local parks frequently host summer movie nights when participants can view a movie on the big screen while under the stars. This can be an informal way to get the entire family together for a fun flick. Films are typically family-friendly and schedules are available well in advance. Bring a blanket and some snacks and enjoy an inexpensive evening together.

Many people need not travel far for a little summertime fun, as many communities host fun events throughout the warmer months.

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Make the most of your

stadium visit

Attending a sporting event or concert at an area stadium is a chance to have the time of one’s life. For those who have never before enjoyed such an experience or haven’t done so in awhile, the modern stadium might be something of a surprise. Fortunately, by being prepared and learning the ropes, your next day at the ballpark can be that much more enjoyable.

One of the first things that any event attendee should know is the reservation and ticketing process. Some stadiums may sell directly from their own box offices, while others may only sell through third-party vendors. Be sure to secure the tickets well in advance and keep them in a safe place if you choose paper tickets. In today’s digital age, many tickets can be scanned and stored on a smartphone. Read the terms of use and be sure that you have the tickets downloaded and readily available when it comes time to enter the stadium. In addition, make sure the stadium accepts digital tickets. Many stadiums do, but there are still some holdouts that do not.

Expect certain measures of security that can involve anything from bag searches to walking through metal detectors when entering the stadium.You may need to leave large bags, like backpacks, at home. Don’t be caught off guard and risk not being able to watch your

game or show because of an avoidable error. And leave yourself ample time to get through security so you don’t miss a minute of the action.

Next up it is important to know what can and cannot be brought into the stadium. What about outside food and beverages? The rules vary depending on the stadium.

If you’re not a fan of stadium prices, be sure to fuel up before the event.

Weather is always a consideration when attending events outdoors. Check the weather well in advance and make preparations if the game or concert will go on rain or shine. Spending several hours under the hot sun can be brutal, so hats, sunglasses, sunblock, and plenty of water will be needed to stay safe and comfortable.

Consider packing a rain poncho if showers are in the forecast.

If you are able to ride share or take public transportation to the event, then do so. Parking lots fill up quickly, and the closer you are to the stadium, the more you will likely pay. If you drive, look for lots that allow easy egress in the direction of your destination after the event.

Stadium survival is about getting the facts and planning ahead.

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Kid-friendly weekend getaways in the great outdoors Weekend getaways in the great outdoors can be a great way for families to break from the norm and spend some quality time together while getting some fresh air. Such trips are popular, as the U.S. Travel Association notes that nearly three out of four domestic trips are taken for leisure purposes.

Families looking to get away from home on weekends often look for activities or locales that appeal to kids and parents alike while getting everyone out of the house. The following are a handful of outdoor getaway ideas the whole family can enjoy.

Hiking: By 2015, the United States was home to nearly 240,000 miles of hiking trails on federal and state lands. Hiking opportunities also are abundant in Canada, where the 2016 General Social Survey found that 44 percent of Canadians go hiking in a given year, making it the country’s most popular outdoor activity. Hiking is a rewarding, healthy hobby that also happens to be free, which can be especially appealing to budget-conscious parents. When exploring potential hiking destinations, parents should look for parks with kid-friendly trails. Many parks have paved trails on flat surfaces, which are ideal for families with small children.

Rivers/lakes: Escaping to a nearby river or lake for a day on the water can make for a memorable, family-friendly getaway. Look for activities like fishing and bring your own rods or rent from nearby bait and tackle shops.

If cruising is more your family’s style, look for boat tours that offer a chance to explore local history while giving the whole family a chance to relax on a boat and soak up some sun.

Zoo/aquarium: According to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, there are more than 220 accredited zoos and aquariums in the United States and Canada. That makes it easy for families that live just about anywhere to plan day trips to local zoos, where they can spend the day soaking up some sun and marveling at exotic wildlife. Zoos and aquariums with outdoor exhibits make for wonderful, family-friendly weekend getaways.

Theme parks: Theme parks make for a great weekend getaways for families. Many theme parks even offer rides and attractions for young children, but parents should call ahead to confirm this before planning their trips.

Weekend getaways are great ways for families to spend time in the great outdoors and take advantage of local attractions. With some simple investigation, families might find there are lots of local attractions within driving distance of their homes.

9 • June 2019 • Staycation GUIDE

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Getting outdoors really is good for you People who live in regions where winters are cold often note the feeling of rejuvenation they enjoy on the first warm day of late-winter or spring. The chance to get outside and soak up some sun while breathing some warm air is a feeling unlike any other for those who spend much of their winters bundled up in layers of clothing.

spend ample time in greenspaces enjoy better health.

However, the benefits appear to be so wide-ranging as to suggest that people who currently do not spend much time in greenspaces should make a concerted effort to do so. The following are a handful of ways busy individuals can start spending more time outdoors.

The value of spending time outdoors extends well beyond dusting off winter cabin fever, providing longterm benefits that might surprise even the most ardent outdoor enthusiast. A 2018 report from researchers at the University of East Anglia found that living close to nature and spending time outside has wide-ranging health benefits, including a reduced risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, premature death, preterm birth, stress, and high blood pressure. Authors of the report studied data from across the globe, gathering evidence from more than 140 studies involving more than 290 million people.

Dine al fresco. On nights when the weather is fair, take dinner into the great outdoors. People who live in private homes can dine on the patio or on the deck in the backyard, while apartment dwellers can make use of local parks for nighttime picnics or dine on balconies or rooftop recreational areas, which have become popular in crowded metropolitan areas. Rooftops and balconies may not pass the "Is it greenspace?" test, but dining in such areas can be more relaxing than an apartment dining nook.

Researchers cannot pinpoint exactly why people who

Get off the couch. Don't hesitate to get outside when night falls. Spend time in the backyard or go for nightly walks around the neighborhood or in a nearby park. Say

so long to television binging sessions, making healthier and more beneficial use of nightly free time by utilizing nearby greenspaces.

Go hiking on weekends. Even city dwellers no doubt live within driving distance of local hiking areas. Hiking provides a host of cardiovascular benefits and can make for a great, full-body workout. Researchers associated with the UEA report suggested that the practice of forest bathing, which is popular in Japan and promotes spending time sitting down or lying in nature, exposes people to a diverse array of bacteria present in natural areas that may benefit the immune system and reduce inflammation.

People who think that accessing nature is helping them to stay healthy aren't wrong. In fact, making time to include nature in your daily or weekly routine can have positive and wide-ranging effects on your overall health.

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Staycation GUIDE • June 2019 • 12

Enjoy safe

backyard barbecues Backyard barbecues are synonymous with warm weather. And why wouldn’t they be? Grilling over an open flame when the weather is warm embodies the relaxing spirit of spring and summer, prompting many people to leave their oven ranges behind in favor of charcoal and gas grills.

As relaxing as backyard barbecues can be, they can quickly take a turn for the worse if cooks don’t emphasize safety when grilling out. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 9,600 home fires are started by grills each year. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission notes that, between 2012 and 2016, an average of 16,600 patients went to the emergency room each year because of injuries involving grills.

Such statistics only highlight the need to balance the fun of grilling with safety when hosting a backyard barbecue or cooking for the family. The following are some steps people can take to ensure their backyard barbecues are safe.

Recognize that gas grills pose a threat as well. It’s easy to assume gas grills don’t pose as great a threat as charcoal grills, which produce soaring flames once the charcoal is lit. But the NFPA notes that gas grills are involved in 7,900 home fires per year. No grill is completely safe, and cooks must emphasize safety whether they’re using gas grills, charcoal grills or smokers.

Only use grills outdoors. Grills should never be used indoors. Even if rain unexpectedly arrives during a backyard barbecue, keep the grill outside. If unexpected rain is accompanied by lightning and thunder, extinguish the fire in the grill and go indoors.

Place the grill in a safe location. Grills should be placed well away from the home. Avoid locating grills near deck railings or beneath eaves and overhanging branches. Cut overgrown branches before lighting a grill fire if they are in close proximity to the grill.

Keep your grill clean. The buildup of grease and fat, both on the grill grate and in trays below the grill, increases the risk of fire. Clean the grill routinely.

Properly light the grill. Lighting gas and charcoal grills requires caution. Before lighting a gas grill, make sure the lid is open. If you must use starter fluid to light a charcoal grill, the NFPA advises using only charcoal starter fluid. Never add any fluids to the fire after it has been lit.

Do not leave a grill unattended.

Cooks should never leave a lit grill unattended. If you must leave the grill, only do so if another adult can stand in your stead. Lit grills pose a threat to children and pets, and unattended grills can be blown over by gusts of wind or tipped by wild animals, such as squirrels. Standing by a lit grill at all times can protect against such accidents and injuries.

Grilling is a favorite summertime activity.

For more information about grilling safety, visit www.nfpa.org.

Pool safety

starts with prevention Pools make some backyards the places to be throughout summer. Lazy summer afternoons are a lot more enjoyable when they’re spent in or alongside a pool, and kids tend to say “I’m bored” with considerably less frequency when a pool is within arm’s reach.

Pools are certainly fun, but they’re only as fun as they are safe. According to the USA Swimming Foundation, between Memorial Day and Labor Day in 2018, at least 148 children younger than age 15 fatally drowned in swimming pools or spas. While those figures represented a 9 percent decline from the year prior, 148 deaths is still 148 lives lost too early.

Pool safety need not come at the expense of summer fun. In fact, homeowners can employ various preventive measures to reduce the risk of pool-related accidents on their properties.

Inspect gates around your pool. The International Code Council¨, a memberfocused association dedicated to the construction of safe, sustainable, affordable, and resilient structures, advises homeowners to inspect all pedestrian gates in the barrier fences around their pools. Such gates should be self-closing and self-latching, as both features ensure

gates are always closed. In addition, the ICC recommends padlocking other gates around the property.

Remove objects around pedestrian gates. Kids can climb up on chairs, tables, large toys, and other objects left around pool gates to gain access to pools even when their parents aren’t looking or even home. Such items should be removed.

Install a pool alarm. Pool alarms can alert homeowners to accidental or unauthorized entrance into the water. The ICC recommends installing such alarms while noting that they should not be considered a substitute for barrier fences or safety covers.

Install automatic or manually operated pool covers. Pool covers can effectively prevent access to pools, spas or hot tubs. At the end of each pool session, cover the pool, even during the height of summer when pools are used daily. The minor task of covering the pool is worth the considerably lower risk of accident or injury if pools remain uncovered.

Summer afternoons at the pool can be made much safer by adhering to a few safety tips.

13 • June 2019 • Staycation GUIDE

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■ Creative (Continued from page 3) – runs through June 16. It will be followed by the classic musical “Singin’ in the Rain” from June 19 through July 13.

From July 17 through Aug. 10, Theatre by the Sea will host the first professional Rhode Island run of Disney’s “Newsies,” based on the famed 1992 movie.

Rounding out the season will be another music-heavy movie adaptation, “Saturday Night Fever,” which runs from Aug. 14 to Sept. 8.

The venue’s Monday Concerts and Events series is also returning this year, providing patrons with a chance to start their staycation week in style.

Harvey Robbins’ “Doo-Wopp Hall of Fame of America & Motown” kicks off the series on June 10, featuring classic hits from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s.

“A Broadway Celebration” on July 8 will bring five celebrated Broadway vocalists to the stage, where they will showcase their talents and share behind-the-scenes stories as part of a question-and-answer session.

Sandy Hackett’s “Rat Pack Show” on July 29 will celebrate the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop.

On Aug. 5, actress and radio host Christine Pedi will perform songs from renowned stage and screen stars like Ethel Merman, Barbara Streisand, Liza Minnelli, Julie Andrews during “Great Dames.”

The Monday series concludes Aug. 26 with Harvey Robbins’ “Superstars of Las Vegas,” a tribute to legendary performers including Neil Diamond, Cher, Rodney Dangerfield, Whitney Houston and Donna Summer.

Theatre by the Sea has performances for younger theater-goers, too. The 2019 Children’s Festival, held on select Fridays in July and August, will include “Snow White,” Keith Michael Johnson’s “Bubbleology,” Disney’s “Aladdin Jr.,” “Little Red Riding Hood” and a performance by magician Scott Jameson.

A full schedule for the festival, along with information on the rest of the season’s offerings and Bistro by the Sea, can be found at theatrebythesea.com.

Still not sold? Artists’ Exchange’s venues and Theatre by the Sea are all air conditioned – and some of the best places to find an escape this summer, even if you’re staying close to home.

Just in case you really want to get away...

Nick Walker Jones (Sky) and Malia Monk (Sophie) perform a scene during Theatre by the Sea’s 2018 production of “Mamma Mia!” (Courtesy of Steven Richard Photography)

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