Ocean State Magazine, October 2018

OCEANSTATE OCTOBER 2018

<locals share their

fashion tips!

Skip the farmers market

FRESHCONN GRAPE STOMPING from Westerly, RI can help!

@ Newport Harvet Festival

BOOKS ARE WINGS

Amazing company in Pawtucket

2

OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

table of

CO NTENT S

20

8 14

10

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 20 21 27 36

OCTOBER EVENTS

Oc e a n S tate Eve nt s S c h e du l e

CHARLOTTE'S LOOK

Oc e a n S tate Fa sh i o n

SARAH'S LOOK

Oc e a n S tate Fa sh i o n

SHIRLEY BELL

Oc e a n S tate Ar t i st

BOOKS ARE WINGS

Oc e a n S tate L i fe st y l e s

BRAD SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY A l y ss a & An dre w

FRESH CONN

Oc e a n S tate L i fe st y l e s

NEWPORT HARVEST FESTIVAL Oc e a n S tate D i n i n g

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY Oc e a n S tate D i n i n g

AUTO REVIEW

Oc e a n S tate Au to

DEALER DIRECTORY Oc e a n S tate Au to

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE

3

october Events in the Ocean State

PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS: A MIDNIGHT VISIT

Join the paranormal investigators, RISEUP, and walk the same floors of the Castle (built in 1678), as Richard Smith, Roger Williams, and Benjamin Franklin. Participants must be at least 16 years old; cost is $35 per person pre-paid and non-refundable.

The evening visit is limited to only twelve people and reservations are recommended. To reserve your spot, call (401) 294-3521 or e-mail smithscastle55@gmail.com.

Presented By: Smith's Castle Location: Smith's Castle Address: 55 Richard Smith Dr., North Kingstown, RI Time: 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM

SCHOOLYARD MARKET

Come for breakfast, stay for lunch, leave with dinner! Schoolyard Market is a summertime farmers-makers market at Hope & Main featuring a dynamic lineup of Rhode Island and Massachusetts-based food, beverage and artisan vendors!

Find hundreds of locally grown produce, coffee, tea, baked goods, confections, meats, seafood, pet treats, body care products, kitchen wares and more.

Presented By: Hope & Main Dates: Through October 28, 2018 Recurrence: weekly on Sunday Location: Hope & Main Address: 691 Main Street, Warren, RI Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

CHEF CHALLENGE WARWICK | A POP-UP MYSTERY DINNER & RESTAURANT TOUR

Executive Chef Kevin Matos (of Jc's Butcher Shop) and Executive Chef Alex Dill (learned from a two

4

OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

Michelin Star Chef) are both Rhode Island Natives working together under than name of Rhode Island Roots. Our mystery box of locally and ethically sourced ingredients will be transformed into a 4-course mystery dinner and influenced by their Portuguese and Spanish culinary experiences.

October 1, 2018 - October 2, 2018 Location: Royal Mills Riverpoint Address: 125 Providence St, Providence, West Warwick, 02893 Phone: (315) 641-9393 Time: 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM Price: $65 adults, $55 students

PROVIDENCE RIVER & HARBOR TOURS

Discover the historic and contemporary milestones of the Providence waterways on our fun & relaxing 45-minute narrated daytime tours and sunset cruises. Explore the Providence River, Riverwalk, Waterplace Park, the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier and the Providence Industrial Harbor, as we highlight historical, nautical and architectural points of interest!

Presented By: Providence River Boat Company Dates: May 4, 2018 - November 4, Recurrence: Recurring daily Location: Providence River Boat Company Address: 575 South Water Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 580-2628 $22 Adults, $17 Children under 12

GET LOST TO GIVE HOPE: CORN MAZE TO SUPPORT NEHA Please join us on Saturday, September 8th at 10:30 AM at

Salisbury Farm for a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony of the Get Lost to Give Hope corn maze. Come to explore the maze, enjoy hayrides, pumpkin picking, and so much more! This is a great opportunity to invite your friends to learn more about bleeding disorders, to support our community, and to have some fun with your Wicked Strong Family. Press will be invited.

Presented By: New England Hemophilia Association Dates: September 8, 2018 - October 31, 2018 Recurrence: Recurring daily Location: Salisbury Farm Address: 11 Peck Hill Rd., Johnston, RI Phone: (781) 326-7645 Time: Various options Price: $11 adults and $9 children, children 2 and under are free

GAME NIGHT

Every Wednesday, enjoy free billiards, shuffleboard, foosball and Hasbro board games and take your chances battling a local brewmaster with “Battle the Brewmaster!” A portion of all sales every Wednesday will be donated to benefit the Hasbro Children’s Hospital.

Dates:Through October 31, 2018 Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Wednesday Location: G Pub Address: 61 Orange Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 632-4782 Time: 5:00 PM

TOUR DE TENTACLE: A WEIRD BIKE ODYSSEY IN PROVIDENCE A menacing energy is growing in the city and it’s up to you and your team to stop it…or to welcome the monsters in!

Dates: October 28, 2018 Location: The Arcade Address: 65 Weybosset Street, Providence, RI, 02903 Time: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Price: $10

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE

5

rhode islanders SH OW OF F T HEI R ST Y L E! 6

OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

oceanstate

fashion S H O P C H A RLOT T E ' S LOOK

Macy's / Tommy Hilfiger Plus Size Printed Polo Shirtdress

HELLO EVERYONE!

I recently went to Newport here in Rhode Island for a casual stroll during the day with my love. The temperature was between 70 and 75 degrees so it was perfect to walk around, enjoy nature and visit different places.

I first visited the Castle Hill Lighthouse which is steps away from the hotel Castle Hill Inn and fell in love with the view, it was windy but the view was beautiful. Then, I went near Fort Adams to walk around the park and take pictures of the view and my outfit. I didn’t know what to wear because the weather here in Rhode Island changes a lot. One day is sunny and the next day is pouring rain. For those days when the weather is unexpected, I have already a few outfits that I know make me feel comfortable and confident. We all have that go-to outfit that makes us feel comfortable and looks put together and mine is a polo dress.

I’m partnering with Macy’s in this post to show you how I style my favorite casual dress, this Tommy Hilfiger Polo

Dress. This dress is navy blue and has white polka dots, perfect for the day. I must confess I’ve been wearing it every week. It’s so comfortable and classic, I love it!

When it comes to style the dress, I prefer to add classic accessories to have a more feminine look. That’s why I’m combining the dress with a nautical silk scarf as a turban headband, red sunglasses and, white espadrilles.

To have a more summery look I’m using a beautiful straw bag that I bought in a thrift store for only $5, Can you believe? I like that has nautical accents, perfect for this casual summer look.

For reference, I always wear 2x and in this case is no exception. I’m wearing the size 2x which means fits true to size. The dress has a pullover style and is knee length, my preference to maintain an elevated look.What I like most about this Tommy Hilfiger Polo Dress is that I can use it with confidence. It is comfortable, casual and classic. As new from England, the classic style and the red/white/ blue color scheme are essential during the summer and I think that’s why I love this dress so much. •

Hi, my name is Bianca Ch arlo tte, I live n ear the b each in Rh o d e Is land & I am a b eauty, s tyle an d b o d y p os itive co ntent creato r!

Ch arlo tteb ellafab.co m is a b lo g d ed icated to celeb rate the p lu s s ize wo man . It's a p lace where I s h are my p ers o nal s tyle in New Eng lan d and s elf- love jo urney thro ug h a b ody p os itive mes s ag e! My mis s io n is to emp ower wo men that want to exp res s co n f id ently their p ers o n alities th ru s tyle and b eau ty.

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE

7

oceanstate

fashion

SU NN Y S IDE UP

rhode islanders SHOW OFF THEIR ST YLE!

This is me in a field of pure happiness. Golden hour, massive sunflowers, and messy hair. Can it get better than this? Also I bought these shorts from a boutique in Providence, RI called Nava. If you're ever in the area you should check them out! I'm obsessed with everything that they sell! â&#x20AC;˘ 8

OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

SH O P S A R A H' S LO O K Urban Oiutfitters / Future State Flower Chart Tee $34.00

Shein.com / Elastic Waist Roll Hem Denim Shorts Sale! $14.00

Madewell / The Boardwalk Post Slide Sandal $59.50

Sarah V iens is a twentys o mething-yearo ld learn ing how to navig ate lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s p aths th rough Sp o tif y p lay lists and h er fashion b lo g . A p ostg rad livin g in P rovid enc e, Rh o d e Is lan d , s h e's currently a J u n io r C o pywriter at A LEX A ND ANI and s p end s her free time ru n ning her b lo g ( www.thes jv.co m) . Fo l low her o n Ins tag ram fo r mo re: @wears s arah.

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE

9

oceanstate

artist

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK

Shirley Bell has been creating her expressive watercolors from her home on Conanicut Island, Jamestown RI. Since 1983.

Watercolor is the perfect medium for capturing her subjects ranging from flowers in her gardens, animals, insects, people, and her coastal island life. Shirley paints mostly plein air and attributes her fresh, spontaneous painting style to her first try efforts to achieve the correct color and value of her subjects.

In 2002, Shirley launched her own successful stationery business. Selling stationery with over Erika Smith 300 of her designs on moved to Rhode it to numerous gift Island in 2008 shops throughout and immediately New England. Her began exploring. focus now is on Wi t h t h e l a u n c h of I {heart} painting original art R h o d y i n 2 0 1 0, s h e c o n t i n u e s full time. Her joy of to find the fun in her new painting is evident home state, and share it with when you experience h e r r e a d e r s . i h e a r t r h o d y. c o m one of her vibrant works.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN RHODE ISLAND?

I have lived in RI my whole life. Jamestown for most of it. I can’t imagine living any place that’s more beautiful.

WHAT DO YOU {HEART} ABOUT RHODE ISLAND?

Rhode Islanders are the best at supporting local artists and businesses.

IN T E R VI EW WITH

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ITEM TO CREATE?

Local Artist from Jamestown

WHAT’S YOUR BEST SELLER?

Shirley Bell Etsy shop name: SH I RLE Y B E L L

Website: WWW.SHIRLEYBELLDESIGNS.COM

Pinterest: SH I RLE Y B E L L D E S I GN S

Instagram: @B E LLOFJA M E S TOW N

10 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

I love painting scenic Jamestown landscapes and still life flowers from my gardens but will paint almost any subject, it is always changing. My stationery business still keeps me busy but am cutting back to focus more on painting original watercolors.

I have many bestselling designs due to my large range of subject matter. For my stationery business, it has been my Christmas cards. My originals, cards and prints as well as some gift items are on my website and Fuller Gallery in Jamestown RI. or at my studio, open to the public.

FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE OUT OF TOWNERS?

I always take people from out of town on a tour of my favorite places in Jamestown followed by a dinner of fresh clams, hard and soft shell, from the beach across from our house. There is nothing better than that!

ANY ADVICE FOR NEW/WANNABE MAKERS?

Being an artist is hard work but worth it. To be able to create a piece of work you can be proud of is such a high. My business is always changing to adapt to new technologies, social media and my own ever-changing interests. I admire anyone who has the courage to create art as it is no small thing. •

Dragonfly Tree cards- 10 card set $14.50

Newport ri bridge print. $30.00+

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 11

oceanstate

lifestyles

THIS AMAZING ORGANIZATION IS PUTTING BOOKS IN THE HANDS OF SO MANY RI KIDS & WOW There’s that famous quote, you know the one about books being uniquely portable magic. Yesterday I happened to go behind the scenes to see some book-related magic happening locally that’s pretty incredible. And for many local children, it could very well be life changing.

I’M SPEAKING ABOUT A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION based up with them - and at Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket that’s working to boost children’s literarcy and also encourage a love of reading. It’s called Books Are Wings and their mission is to put free books in the hands of local children from struggling, economically disadvantaged families. Yesterday afternoon I chatted with Paige Clausius-Parks, the Director, took a tour of their space, and found out just how much having - or not having books - in the home impacts young children. According to research on the subject, the long term positives of growing

12 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

being read to during the formative years - include a much higher likelihood of staying in school and of ultimately tossing that tassled cap in the air (aka, graduating from hs).

Last year alone

Patty J. is chief c ontent creator at , and founder of, the award wi nning lifesty le blo g Patty J.c om , whic h s howcas es n o tewor thy food & d rink , s tyle, and travel (as well as d ynamic individuals) within the Ocean State and b eyo nd . P ho to by: Stac ey Doyle P h o to g rap hy

BAW distributed more than 65K books (donated for the most part from people around the OS) to kids in areas like Pawtucket, East Providence, Central Falls, Woonsocket, and West Warwick. With additional assistance from the Rhody-based travel and tour company Collette, as well as funding from The Rhode Island Foundation, they have been able to partner with area schools on multi-visit events over the course of the academic year. During these visits, they have storytime, craft activities, and children get to pick out 1-2 books to keep and bring back home with them. (The stories of kids hugging the books and being ecstatic about being able to keep them permanently will give you goosebumps!

Something so many of us take for granted…) They have also teamed up with community organizations in a number of these same cities and towns to provide what’s known as Book Spots, indoor and outdoor mini library set-ups at local parks and even the DMV where kids can pick out a ‘forever’ book and hopefully carry it forward toward a lifelong love of reading.

If you’re interested in donating books, volunteering a few hours (They sorted thru over 80K donations last year thanks to people just like you who had a few hours to pitch in!) or just finding out more about this amazing non-profit that’s making a difference in the lives of so many youngsters in the OS, go to booksarewings.org. • OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 13

ALY S S A & A ND RE W : M A R R I E D, A T L A N T I C I N N , B LOC K I S L A N D Alyssa and andy had a picture perfect day for their wedding at the atlantic inn on block island. They had an intimate first look at the mohegan bluffs, bridal party photos at the lighthouse, followed by a ceremony and lively reception back at the inn. â&#x20AC;˘

I ph otogra p h w e dd in gs a n d h ave a d a r n good tim e d oin g i t . I e n joy ge ttin g to k n o w th e c ou p le s I w o r k with , a n d b e i n g w e l c o m e d i nto th e i r w e d di n g s a s fa m i ly. T h is fa m i li a r ity i s w h at l e t s m e d o c u m e nt th e d ay uno bt r u s i ve l y, a n d c a p tu re ge n u in e m om e nt s a s t h ey u n fold , a l lowi n g you to re m a i n fo cu se d on th e p re s e nt m o m e nt .

14 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

oceanstate

wedding

B R AD SMITHPHOTOGR APHY // SM ITHBRA D.COM // @SMITHBRA D

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 15

16 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

oceanstate

lifestyles

VEGGING out

Farmers market season is in full swing here in the OS. Love shopping them, but truth be told I don't get there as much as I'd like. And don't get me started about tending a backyard garden, especially after a friend was literally just telling me how the rabbits and raccoons went to town with some of the veggies that she and her SO (short for significant other) had worked so diligently on this year.

THE REALLY GREAT NEWS

is that there's a new virtual farmers market called FreshConn that's launching this week in Westerly, Rhode Island. The branchild of local entrepreneurs Chef Patrick Straus and Brandon Monti, the idea is that via FC you can have farm fresh, locally grown food delivered right to your door on the reg. It's all about marrying convenience with the best quality Rhody vegetables and much more. Since I stick with a mostly plant-based, vegetarian diet these days, I've chosen to talk veggies, but FC also

offers more in the way of meats, etc. from over a dozen RI farms.

I had the opportunity to tour Hillandale Food Hub in Westerly with Patrick himself last week and was beyond impressed by their organic, sustainable methods. Specializing in tomatoes, mixed greens, and other seasonal produce, the family owned and operated HFH grows everything in native soil that's fortified with compost they make on site. No nasty chemicals, and you'll be surprised (and delighted) that they also utilize solar

Patty J. is chief c ontent creator at , and founder of, the award winning lifesty le blo g Patty J.c om , whic h s h owcas es no tewor thy food & d rin k , s tyle, an d travel (as well as d yn amic individuals) with in th e Ocean State and b eyo n d . P h o to by : Stac ey Doyle P ho to g rap hy

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 17

VEGGING out con't

power! In addition, I discovered that there's actually a 'Patty' Pan Squash (top photo above) that despite bearing a striking resemblance to a flying saucer/UFO, cooks up quite nicely and tastes delish.

If you're looking to add more native tomatoes, eggplant, squash, and the like to your life right now, without having to get your hands too dirty (and without the wear and tear on your nails... heck, a good mani isn't cheap these days guys!), highly recommend going to the Fresh Conn Facebook Page for additional deets about how to get onboard and info about all the exciting (including philanthropic) things Patrick, Brandon, and company are doing right now. â&#x20AC;˘

18 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

LET US FIGHT FOR YOU 401.477.0023 ENVIRONMENTAL, ENERGY & UTILITY, LAND USE LAW PROVIDENCE & NEWPORT | DESAUTELESQ.COM

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 19

October 27, 2018 - October 28, 2018

H A R VEST FESTIVAL @ N EW PORT VINEYARDS 909 East Main Road, Middletown, RI 02842 Two days full of grape stomping, wine AND Taproot beer tasting, pie eating goodness. Enjoy live music, while sipping on our local wines or fresh Taproot beer, and noshing on food created by scratch from our culinary team. Feeling competitive? You could be called to compete in our Grape Stomp Competition OR our Pie Eating Contest!

SATURDAY, OCT 27 + SUNDAY OCT 28 Ongoing from 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Grape Stomping at 1:00pm and 3:00pm* Pie Eating Contest - 2:00pm * $25 per person, includes wine OR Taproot beer tasting $20 for Club Members, includes wine tasting (Discount Code Required - call 401.848.5161x0 for code) *Grape stomping and pie eating contest contestants will be selected at random the day of the event. Please be present and dressed accordingly if you want to have a chance at participating.

Phone: (401) 848-5161 Time: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM Price: $25 per person, $20 for Club Members*

20 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

Restaurant DIRECTORY

MILL’S TAVERN $$$ 101 N Main St Providence

Seafood, Steakhouses, Salad

437-6950

Providence PERSIMMON $ $ $

99 Hope St (Fox Point) American, Seafood

432-7422

THE EDDY $ $

95 Eddy St (DownCity) American, Cocktail Bars

831-3339

THE SLOW RHODE $ $

425 W Fountain St (Federal Hill) Southern, Bars, American

351-0006

NORTH $ $

3 Luongo Memorial Sq (Federal Hill) Asian Fusion

421-1100

NICK’S ON BROADWAY $ $ 500 Broadway (Federal Hill) American, Bar

421-0286

XO CAFE $ $

BROADWAY BISTRO $ $

THE CAPITAL GRILLE $ $ $

343-0441

521-5600

MILK MONEY $ $

IVY TAVERN $ $

205 Broadway (Federal Hill) American, Bistro

566 S Water St (Fox Point) American, Tapas/Small Plates

649-4667

WARA WARA $ $

776 Hope St (Summit) Ramen, Tapas/Small Plates, Seafood, Asian Fusion

831-9272

THE SALTED SLATE

$$ 186 Wayland Ave (Summit) American, Brunch & Breakfast

10 Memorial Blvd (Downtown) Seafood, Steakhouses

758 Hope St (Summit) American, Sports Bars

421-4489

GRACIE’S $ $ $

194 Washington St (DownCity) American

272-7811

THE MALTED BARLEY $ $ 334 Westminster St (DownCity) Beer, Bar, Sandwitches

490-0300

270-3737

FEDERAL TAPHOUSE & KITCHEN $ $ 279 Atwells Ave (Federal Hill) American, Tapas

454-8881

125 N Main St (College Hill) American, Bar, Desserts

273-9090 OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 21

Bristol

Warren

AGAVE $ $

ELI’S KITCHEN $ $

805 Hope St American

253-1566

AIDAN’S PUB $ $

5 John St Pubs, Desserts, American

254-1940

BEEHIVE CAFE $ $

10 Franklin St Cafes, Breakfast & Brunch, American

40 Market St Tapas/Small Plates, Sandwiches

245-1809

TRAFFORD $ $ 285 Water St American

JO’S AMERICAN BISTRO$ $ $ 24 Memorial Blvd W Seafood, Burgers

847-5506

22 BOWENS WINE BAR & GRILLE $ $ $ 22 Bowens Wharf American Wine Bars, Steakhouses

289-2265

841-8884

Portsmouth

Jamestown

396-9994

CINDY’S COUNTRY CAFE $

PINK PIG BBQ $ $

1324 W Main Rd American, Breakfast

REDLEFSEN’S ROTISSERIE & GRILL $ $

683-5134

560-7941

Tiverton

Naragansett

BOAT HOUSE WATERFRONT DINING $ $ $

TRIO $ $

444 Thames St German, Party & Event Planning

254-1188

S S DION $ $

520 Thames St Seafood

253-2884

Barrington TABLE $ $

8 Anoka Ave French, American

337-5830

BLACK PEAR $ $ 312 County Rd Cafes

337-5895

227 Schooner Dr Seafood, American Breakfast & Brunch

792-4333

SHOOBIE’S $ $

Newport

783-2200

12 Sand Hill Cove Rd Pizza, Burgers, Breakfast

THE MOORING $ $ $

N. Kingston

846-2260

TAVERN BY THE SEA $ $

BRICK ALLEY PUB & RESTAURANT $ $

294-5771

1 Sayers Wharf Seafood, Wine Bars

140 Thames St American, Pubs

849-6334

CREPELICIOUS$ 337-5945

849-7778

22 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

15 Kingstown Rd American

624-6300

FLUKE WINE, BAR & KITCHEN $ $

60 Maple Ave Desserts, Cafes

35 Narragansett Ave Barbeque

41 Bowens Wharf Wine Bars, Seafood

16 W Main St American, Seafood

S. Kingston MATUNUCK OYSTER BAR $ $ 629 Succotash Rd Seafood

783-4202

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 23

WATERMAN GRILLE $ $

4 Richmond Sq (Fox Point) American, Seafood

521-9229

Cranston SONIA’S NEAR EAST MARKET & DELI $

816 Park Ave Middle Eastern, Delis, Mediterranean

RED STRIPE $$

465 Angell St Providence Bruch, Steakhouses

437-6950

941-9300

SPAIN RESTAURANT $ $ $

SORRENTO RESTAURANT$ $

946-8686

400-3210

1073 Reservoir Ave Spanish

EDDIE’S DINER $

877 Dyer Ave Breakfast & Brunch, Fish & Chips, American

654-6656

ICHIBAN $ $

146 Gansett Ave Japanese, Korean

432-7220

1848 Smith St American, Italian

GREEN BASIL $$

2086 Mineral Spring Ave Thai

349-4887

IL FORNELLO $$ 16 Josephine St Italian

722-5599

SPIKE’S JUNKYARD DOGS $

Warwick

781-7556

LEGAL SEA FOODS $$

640 Reservoir Ave Hot Dogs, Fast Food

2099 Post Rd Seafood

North Providence NORTH SIDE POCKETS $

1394 Douglas Ave Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

714-0882

732-3663

1 Centerville Rd Pizza, Itlaian

East Providence RED BRIDGE TAVERN $$ 22 Waterman Ave American (Traditional), Salad, Sandwiches

438-3899

SUN & MOON KOREAN RESTAURANT $$ 95 Warren Ave Korean

435-0214

LUCKY’S BAR & GRILLE $$

1175 Warren Ave American (Traditional), Irish Bars

431-6500

THE SHANTY $$ 3854 Post Rd American

884-7008

ICHIGO ICHIE $$

5 Catamore Blvd Japanese, Sushi Bars

435-5511

SOPHIA’S TUSCAN GRILLE $$ 1729 Warwick Ave Italian, Breakfast

732-6656 24 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

THE RIPE TOMATO $$

Bristol

Warren

AGAVE $ $

ELI’S KITCHEN $ $

805 Hope St American

253-1566

AIDAN’S PUB $ $

5 John St Pubs, Desserts, American

254-1940

BEEHIVE CAFE $ $

10 Franklin St Cafes, Breakfast & Brunch, American

40 Market St Tapas/Small Plates, Sandwiches

245-1809

TRAFFORD $ $ 285 Water St American

JO’S AMERICAN BISTRO$ $ $ 24 Memorial Blvd W Seafood, Burgers

847-5506

22 BOWENS WINE BAR & GRILLE $ $ $ 22 Bowens Wharf American Wine Bars, Steakhouses

289-2265

841-8884

Portsmouth

Jamestown

396-9994

CINDY’S COUNTRY CAFE $

PINK PIG BBQ $ $

1324 W Main Rd American, Breakfast

REDLEFSEN’S ROTISSERIE & GRILL $ $

683-5134

560-7941

Tiverton

Naragansett

BOAT HOUSE WATERFRONT DINING $ $ $

TRIO $ $

444 Thames St German, Party & Event Planning

254-1188

S S DION $ $

520 Thames St Seafood

253-2884

Barrington TABLE $ $

8 Anoka Ave French, American

337-5830

BLACK PEAR $ $ 312 County Rd Cafes

337-5895

227 Schooner Dr Seafood, American Breakfast & Brunch

15 Kingstown Rd American

792-4333

624-6300

SHOOBIE’S $ $

Newport

783-2200

12 Sand Hill Cove Rd Pizza, Burgers, Breakfast

THE MOORING $ $ $

N. Kingston

846-2260

TAVERN BY THE SEA $ $

BRICK ALLEY PUB & RESTAURANT $ $

294-5771

1 Sayers Wharf Seafood, Wine Bars

140 Thames St American, Pubs

849-6334

CREPELICIOUS$

FLUKE WINE, BAR & KITCHEN $ $

337-5945

849-7778

60 Maple Ave Desserts, Cafes

35 Narragansett Ave Barbeque

16 W Main St American, Seafood

S. Kingston MATUNUCK OYSTER BAR $ $ 629 Succotash Rd Seafood

783-4202

41 Bowens Wharf Wine Bars, Seafood

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 25

Advertise WITH OCEAN STATE

EMAIL US AT:

Info@oceanstatemagazine.com

26 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

oceanstate

auto

2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid

by Duncan Brady

THE CLARITY PLUG-IN HYBRID

is an unique car for Honda. The nameplate was first introduced in 2008 with the Honda FCX Clarity, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle which the Japanese manufacturer described as “a clear solution to the challenges of the future.” In the United States, the FCX Clarity was available only as a lease and only in Southern California, where residents would have access to hydrogen fueling stations.

Perhaps the solution was not as clear to Californians as it was to Honda execs, as Honda only leased 45 examples in the car’s six-year production run.

Honda reintroduced the the Clarity moniker in 2016, announcing a new generation of its alternatively-fueled future machine. This second coming of the Clarity was more diverse, this time offering the Clarity Fuel Cell and Clarity Electric, though both cars were restricted to leasing on the west coast just like their predecessor. Both were impressive, the fuel cell car even boasting the longest EPA-rated range of any zero-emissions vehicle at 366 miles, but they remained inaccessible the majority of Honda’s customer base.

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 27

That changes in 2018. The newest member of the Clarity family is a plug-in hybrid model that leans heavily on its electric architecture. Most notably, it’s the first Clarity model available across the United States, and you finally have the option to lease one or buy it. As we transition as a population from internal combustion toward an electric future, cars like the Clarity Plug-in could become the new normal. But is this one any good?

How the Clarity transmits power through its front wheels could be its most interesting trait.

For the majority of the driving experience, it operates as an electric vehicle. The powertrain is not unlike that of the Chevrolet Volt, relying on a 181 horsepower electric motor as its main source of propulsion. A 17.0 kWh lithium-ion battery resting beneath the passenger compartment powers the motor which produces 232 lb-ft of torque as soon as you squeeze the throttle. The Clarity recharges in just 2.5 hours on a 240V hookup or 12 hours from a standard 120V connection.

Support duty falls on a 1.5-liter gas engine making 103-hp and 99 lb-ft. It fires up only on occasion, usually after the electric system has depleted its 47-mile range. When the little engine is running, it uses its modest power output to charge the Clarity’s battery rather than transmit torque to the front wheels. In this sort of application, the engine hums inoffensively at a constant RPM not unlike the Honda generator sitting in my backyard, if producing a lot less noise. Honda claims the gas engine will only require scheduled service every 100,000 miles, excluding oil changes.

All that engineering translates to a driving experience less foreign than one might expect coming

28 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

from a gas-powered automobile. Electric motors produce instant torque, but Honda retards the response of the first inch or so of throttle pedal travel which avoids lurching acceleration BY from RONa ST. LAURENT stop. Pushing further into the pedal welcomes an endless wave of electric torque which swiftly and silently propels the Clarity to speed. Though the gas engine typically operates only as a generator, below the throttle pedal lies a sort of button only accessible with the pedal fully extended. Its actuation spins the gas engine to life and sends the full system output of 212 horsepower to the front wheels.

The Clarity feels almost quick under full throttle, and Car and Driver testing clocked 0-60mph in a respectable 7.7 seconds. That being said, its most obvious setback is the Clarity’s weight. Though dimensionally within an inch of Honda’s own Accord, the Clarity weighs in over 600 pounds heavier at a portly 4052 pounds. Most if not all of the extra heft comes as a result of the Clarity’s battery pack but because the batteries are located in the floor under the passenger compartment, the center of gravity remains fairly low. The difference in weight over an Accord is really only noticeable in quick transitions in direction and particularly tight corners, but it’s worth noting.

The combination of an electric drivetrain and a gas-powered range-extending engine solves one of the most significant issues facing electric vehicles: range anxiety. Running a Tesla’s battery flat results in little else but its stranded owner. Because fast charging stations are much fewer and further between than conventional gas stations, some drivers grow tense as their EV’s range approaches zero. When the Clarity exhausts its

electric range, its gas engine allows drivers to keep going. The EPA estimates a combined range of 340 miles, achieving 110 MPGe in the process, though that range can be extended even further by simply refueling the Clarity’s 7.0-gallon gas tank.

Considering its unconventional powertrain, the rest of the Clarity is standard modern Honda.

Its interior forgoes the alternative materials and spaceship layout of contemporaries like the BMW i3, instead providing a comfortable and polished space in which to travel. The front seats are wide and delightfully cushioned, though they lack the lateral support of seating in cars with more sporting intention. Materials are top notch for the segment and a wide strip of wooden trim along the dashboard adds class. The infotainment system is accessible through a large and simply laid out screen in the center of the dash, though it’s sourced from Honda’s brief era of sound systems without volume knobs. All cars should have volume knobs.

On the outside, the Clarity adopts Honda’s current design language with a full-width front grill and sharp character lines along its profile. The headlight design is mostly conventional but includes two catfish-like LED whiskers which nicely frame the Clarity’s front end. Out back you’ll notice wheel spats covering the top inch or two of the rear wheel, possibly the Clarity’s most distinctive design feature. Wheel spats like these surely pay aerodynamic benefits, but it’s possible this design cue is more of a historical nod toward the first hybrid ever sold in America, Honda’s own Insight.

Plug-in hybrids make a lot of sense with the current infrastructure of the U.S. highway system and will certainly ease the transition from a society built on internal combustion to one which embraces a zero-emission electric future. The Honda Clarity in its plug-in configuration is an excellent example of the breed with a usable electric range, incredible gas and electric efficiency, and a comfortable, well-furnished cabin. It doesn’t rely on visual flash or silly tech gimmicks to tout its unconventional drivetrain but rather focuses that energy into creating a usable plug-in hybrid for the masses. I’ll make this clear: if the Clarity becomes the new normal, that’s just fine with me.• The 2018 Honda Clarity along with all of Honda's cars, trucks, SUVs and Minivan are available at Saccucci Honda in Middletown Rhode Island

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 29

30 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 31

32 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 33

34 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 35

36 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 37

38 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 39

40 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 41

42 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018

OCT

SUNDAY OCT 21 AT 10:30 AM ON ABC 6.

OCTOBER 2018 O CEANSTATE 43

44 OC E A N S TAT E OCTOBER 2018