February 2014
No Reservation About Preservation Under new leadership, the Providence Preservation Society looks ahead
Our Guide to Kids’ Activities over February Break pg 19
A New Dining Option for Thayer Street pg 29
New Listing! $459,000
Wayland Square 2 family. Excellent rental history, many updates and well maintained. Architectural details - built-in china cabinets, butler’s pantry, moldings, high ceilings and more!
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Beautifully built and maintained! Hardwoods throughout, porches on 1st, 2nd. 3rd floor combined with 2nd for super town home. Double stairways, new windows, 2 car garage.
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New Listing! $224,900
New Listing! $229,000
Premier waterfront Rosedale Landing! 2nd floor, 1 bed condo runs front to back w/water views! Hardwoods, W/D in unit, barbeque area, gated assigned parking.
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New Listing! $898,000
Rare opportunity! Exceptional College Hill home with panoramic views of the city & State House. Rambling 4 bed, 3 bath, 8 room Ranch, finished basement, covered parking.
$1,990,000
Classic Colonial design in Mt. Hope village. All new kitchen, bathrooms, heating system. Updated windows, roof, hardwoods throughout, garage. Close to everything!
Historic College Hill Colonial with panoramic 180 degree city views. 5 beds, 3 full/1 half baths, living room w/fireplace, open kitchen/family room.
Thom Hammond
Michael Young
New Listing! $359,900
1920’s Colonial design in desirable Oak Hill. Maintenance free exterior, updated windows, roof, kitchen cabinetry, fireplace, fenced yard, garage. Walk to Blackstone Blvd, Farmers Market!
Thom Hammond
$549,000
Oak Hill. 4 bed, 2 ½ bath Colonial features central A/C, 3 double beds, updated kitchen, 2 car garage. Lovely summer porch overlooking private, wooded yard.
Carl Feldman
New Price! $417,500
Fabulous Colonial w/recent windows, stainless appliances, 6 burner gas stove, garden window in new kitchen. Spacious, sunny rooms. Period details. Fenced rear yard included.
Linda Mittleman
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Contents February 2014
This Month 13 Preserving Providence PPS looks back to the future
19 A Wintery Vacation Fun activities for February break
20 Community Libraries What’s going on this month
13 Every Month 4 Letters/Editorial 6 Other Side 9 Community News
30 Dining Guide
39 Calendar
34 Finance
46 East of Elmgrove
Your resource for dining out
All the info on February events
The financial benefit of marriage
Why history is a present
37 Art
27 Movies Photography: Jesse Burke
One of PPS’s 2014 Endangered Properties, Ward Baking Company
Capsule reviews on the latest cinematic openings
29 On the Menu
Thayer Street gets a new pizzeria
Brown’s alumni are at the center of a big celebration
33 Education
On the Cover:
The new principal at Varten Gregorian Elementary School
Brent Runyon photographed at PPS on Meeting Street by Mike Braca
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February 2014 East Side Monthly
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Editorial Time to Start Thinking Legacy, Perhaps
Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell Publishing Director Jeanette St. Pierre
News that the State
was planning to move its Department of Probation and Parole to a highly visible office space at 40 Fountain Street, directly across from the Dunk, produced an almost immediate firestorm of protest. In addition to the move being a no-bid award done in relative secrecy, the thought of 150 parolees coming into the visible downtown location each month didn’t exactly set the heart of local entrepreneur Angus Davis aflutter. He wrote a letter to the governor expressing his concern over possible safety issues, especially as they related to the 110 new employees who have just moved with his company into the downtown area. His concerns were soon echoed by the Providence Chamber
of Commerce and highlighted by a lead editorial in the Providence Journal, another neighbor of the proposed relocation. Given the importance of maintaining a commercially vibrant Downcity, fortunately cooler heads seemed to have prevailed and as we go to press. Department of Administration head Richard Licht has announced he will be soliciting proposals for alternative sites. This misstep follows on the heels of the state’s proposal, following its purchase of the land across from Veterans Auditorium, to potentially allow hundreds of surface parking spots adjoining a building they are proposing on the newly purchased space. This is despite the fact that surface
parking is currently prohibited in the capital center area, based on a document signed over 30 years ago, which has been followed by every other developer during this period. Oh yeah, and the State was a signatory to the original document in 1982 as well. One would hope the governor appreciates how important a vibrant and attractive downtown is to the well being of our city and, of course, how important the success of our capital city is to the well being of our entire state. Let’s hope he and his team can be more thoughtful as his tenure draws to a close and that he will perhaps reflect on what will constitute his legacy in office.
Managing Editor Barry Fain City Editor Steve Triedman Executive Editor Julie Tremaine Associate Editor Grace Lentini Special Projects Manager John Taraborelli Digital Manager Samantha Pezza Art Director Karli Hendrickson Assistant Art Director Meghan H. Follett Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas Graphic Designer Veatsna Sok
Letters A Cheerful Thank You To the Editor: Greetings! As a member of the Voices of Christmas, I would like to thank you for the lovely article [“Sounds of the Season,” December 2013]. Your writer, Mary K. Connor, captured the spirit of our group beautifully, and photographer Amy Amerantes took a wonderful photo of the group. Thank you very much for the lovely article. Kathleen Cornely
More Praises To the Editor: I don’t know if I’ve thanked you yet but the article you guys did on our little singing group, Voices of Christmas, was wonderful [“Sounds of the Season,” December 2013]. We’ve gotten lots of nice feedback and kudos for the group members from the East Side community. Peter Thornton
Taking a Bite out of Providence To the Editor: I absolutely loved the article by Liz Rau [“A Look Back,” January 2014] especially the mention of the Providence Granola
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East Side Monthly February 2014
Account Managers Louann DiMuccio-Darwich, Ann Gallagher, Nicole Greenspun, Kristine Mangan, Courtney Melo, Dan Schwartz, Elizabeth Riel, Kimberly Tingle
Project. Since Liz said it was “the best granola I’ve ever tasted,” I would like to try it. But unfortunately she did not provide any contact information for the producer or where to pick it up. I would love to know where to try it. Anonymous Editor’s Note: We absolutely love hearing from our readers and clarifying any issues. Places where one can buy granola from the Providence Granola Project include Eastside Marketplace, Whole Foods University Heights, Fertile Underground Cooperative and Small Circle. For a list of restaurants that buy from Providence Granola project check out their website www. beautifuldayri.org. And please, if you call or write with any questions, give us your contact information so we can get back to you.
Picture Perfect To the Editor: That was a terrific article about the Avon Theatre. When Hillary Clinton came to the College Hill Bookstore for a book signing (about 2003, I think) the Dulgarians were gracious enough to cancel the movie at
the Avon, and let all of us who were waiting to buy her book Living History wait our turn inside the theater, instead of forming a long line on Thayer Street. Sylvia Denhoff, Wayland Square
You Can’t Beat the Market To the Editor: In last month’s finance column [“To Be Active or Passive,” January 2014] Ms. Purinton almost gets the point: active management is a “loser’s game” as Bogle and his associates characterize it. If active mangers of any asset class are so smart, brilliant and confident they can “beat the market,” why have none of them accepted the acid test proposition: Guarantee the investor the market return for your asset class (a guarantee the investor gets by buying an index fund) over a market cycle, with your compensation solely being 1/3 of the upside. In over two decades of sitting on investing committees, chairing several and interviewing scores of active managers, not one has accepted. Why? Because you cannot beat the market – plain and simple. David Hirsch Mustang Partners, LLC
Classified Advertising Sue Howarth Contributing Writers Bob Cipriano, Michael Clark, Mary K. Connor, Jill Davidson, Mike Fink, Don Fowler, Elyena de Goguel, David Goldstein, Betsey Purinton, Dale J Rappaneau Jr; Elizabeth Rau, Dan Schwartz, Erin Swanson Interns Anita Baffoni, Elyena de Goguel, Alexa Pacheco, Jasmine Phan, Stacy Swift, Paige Snyder Contributing Photographers Amy Amerantes, Jesse Burke, Katie Poor, Dan Schwartz Contributing Illustrators Ashley MacLure, Eloise Narrigan
Calendar announcements and news releases should be submitted by the 1st of the preceding month. We reserve the right to omit and edit items. Letters to the editor are welcome. We will not print unsigned letters without exceptional circumstances. East Side Monthly is not responsible for typographical errors. Corrections will be run at discretion of editor. Copyright ©2014 by East Side Monthly. All rights reserved. Printed by Gannett Offset.
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February 2014 East Side Monthly
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Other Side by Barry Fain
Winter Warhol Pop icon’s photography to be featured at new RISD Museum exhibition The RISD Museum always enjoyed a close and unique relationship with the late pop icon Andy Warhol. In fact, his cow wallpaper actually adorns one of the entrance walls to the museum itself. But it all started back in 1969 when the artist was invited to curate an exhibition from the museum’s permanent collection. Spurning traditional choices from the collection, the ever-unpredictable Mr. Warhol produced an unexpected mélange of articles that left organizers scratching their collective heads and created what became a landmark exhibition called Raiding the Icebox. The event has taken on an almost mystical significance as a precursor of artists’ interventions of the ‘90s that helped rethink the nature of traditional collecting museums. The newest Warhol-RISD collaboration will begin on January 31 and will include a display of 150 Polaroid and black and white photographs taken by the artist that served as the basis for many of his later silkscreen paintings, drawings and prints. Not sure if the Campbell’s soup can made the cut.
Can Summer Be Far Behind?
If the ice and snow are doing you in, this month the Providence Convention Center thankfully offers you a glimpse of what’s only a few months away. First it’s boats (February 1-2); then it’s cars (February 6-9); and finally flowers and gardens (February 20-23). Just thinking about these kinds of things will lop ten degrees off the wind chill. Promise.
From Pow to Wow at the Square...
For years, the venerable Wayland Toy Store occupied the large space at the heart of the square on the corner of Wayland and Medway. Most recently it housed the Pow! Science store. Then suddenly it was empty. But as of this month, there is good news. Dixon & McAllister, a casual clothing retailer for men and women based in Newport, has just opened up in this very
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East Side Monthly February 2014
And from Empty to Tempt-y on Thayer
There’s good news on Thayer Street too, The long vacant Adesso restaurant space is now finally officially occupied as well. The Flatbread Company, a small chain that has already proven quite popular in college-oriented towns and specializes in delicious wood-fired pizza among other things, just opened for business. As nature abhors a vacuum, the East Side hates an empty store. For this large vacant spot on Thayer Street, is no more.
Happy Birthday, Dear Bruno
Starting next month, Brown will be celebrating its 250th anniversary with an almost yearlong series of special events marking the occasion. Best of all, the school will be inviting its East Side neighbors to participate in the festivities with them. We’ll have many more specifics in next month’s East Side Monthly. But meanwhile congrats to Brown on two-and-a-half centuries exceedingly well done.
New Communications Director for Cicilline
Former East Side resident Andrew Gernt will be leaving his job as the deputy Press Secretary for Senator Jack Reed in Washington and will take over as the new Communications Director for Representative David Cicilline. The 28-year-old Gernt had been with the Senator for the past four years and will remain based in DC. His father Wallace (Wally) Gernt is the President of the Bradford Group – a marketing, public relations and lobbying firm here in Providence.
visible location. With the women’s retailer F. Bianco relocating from Garden City soon to Angell Street, the Square has gone full circle to virtually fully occupied. Good news all around.
The Final Cut
Pia Zadora photographed by Andy Warhol
We were saddened to hear of the recent demise of Acme Video, the last independent video store in Providence. Located on Brook Street, the store offered an eclectic mix of indie, foreign and older films simply not available anywhere else. They were also well served by a knowledgable, cinematically-fluent sales staff. In singing their praises, the Phoenix once described Acme as the “the martini to Blockbuster’s Smirnoff Ice.” Unfortunately it’s now past closing time for both.
Photo courtesy of the RISD Museum
Pop Goes the Artist
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Celebrate with us!
Be a Part of History in the Making. March 1764: Act passed to establish a college in the colony of Rhode Island
1804: College named Brown University
March 2014 – May 2015: Brown’s 250th Anniversary Celebration
UPCOMING EVENTS March 7 – 8, 2014
September 27 – 28, 2014
Opening Celebration
Fall Celebration
Brown University
Brown University
Schedule & Information: 250.brown.edu
Share with us: #brown250
Email us: brown250@brown.edu
Community News Community News is a space that East Side Monthly makes available to community organizations free of charge. The content does not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of this publication.
Summit by Kerry Kohring Summit Neighborhood Association Phone Number: 489-7078 Website: www.SummitNeighbors.org Email: sna@sna.providence.ri.us Mailing Address: SNA, PO Box 41092, Providence, RI 02940 Christmas Carolers go in Merry Measure More than 50 people turned out the evening of Sunday, December 22, to sing Christmas carols to their neighbors in Summit. Starting at The Miriam Hospital, which provided hot drinks and cookies, about 5pm, the merry group, organized by SNA for the first time this year, sang a few non-denominational carols in the cafeteria, then headed up Sixth Street, laughing, and caroling, all the way. Various residents came out onto their porches in the unseasonably warm night to join in the choral celebration and to call out thanks to the people in the street. The group, westward leading, still proceeding, wished the neighborhood a holly, jolly Christmas along Bayard and Summit, Fifth and Fourth, until a cold rain began to fall about 6:30pm. A final stop was made in the parking lot of Seven Stars bakery and the grand finale of the evening was the Jewish seasonal Dreidel Song. With joyous wishes of “Merry Christmas!” to each other, the carolers dispersed to Hope Street restaurants and shops or home to dinner, vowing to meet again next year. Annual Meeting Planned for This Month According to the SNA’s bylaws, the annual meeting is to be held in February. Although several actions need to be taken, such as the election of the year’s board of directors, the format for the assembly has yet to be determined. Details will be announced on the website and listserv as soon as they are formalized. In the past, there have been presentations by elected and administration officials followed by questions from the audience, candidates for public office debating the issues or discussions
of the future of the city and neighborhood led by experts in the field. This year, the board is also considering a more social gathering so that neighbors can exchange views and aspirations in an informal setting. If you have a preference or suggestions, please send an email or post it to the web site. Miriam Hospital Awards Grant for Community Gardens SNA board member Anthony Arrigo announced that The Miriam Hospital has awarded the organization $12,500 to help pay for the community’s share of renovations to the tot lot on Summit Avenue. The funds will be supplemented by other sources or SNA’s own treasury to reach the approximately $18,000 the Providence Parks Department said is needed in local support to implement the improvements, which will include community garden plots. Groundbreaking is planned for as early as possible in the spring, according to the Parks Department. Still to be formed is a supervisory committee of interested parties from the neighborhood to work with the city in setting transparently fair rules for eligibility and procedures in the gardens. Snow-Shoveling Assistance Program Digging In At the December board meeting, program co-chair Britt Page reported that people needing help had been successfully matched with volunteers. She said the coordinators are also working to guard against non-needy people trying to take advantage of their neighbors’ generosity or landlords trying to evade their responsibilities to their tenants. Forums for Candidates’ Views Sought In this election year, SNA is looking to cooperate with other organizations in offering residents opportunities to meet and question candidates for public office. It has been said that people get the government they deserve, so take every chance to become an informed and active voter. Residents Invited to Directors Meetings The board of directors convenes at 7pm on the third Monday of every month in the cafeteria of Summit Commons, 99 Hillside Ave. The meetings are open and neighborhood residents are encouraged to attend. Minutes of all board meetings are posted on the SNA website under “Meetings and Agendas.”
Fox Point by John Rousseau Fox Point Neighborhood Association Phone Number: 270-7121 Website: www.fpna.net Email: fpna@cox.net Mailing Address: P.O. Box 603177, Providence, RI 02906 Events This Month FPNA Board Meeting, 7pm Monday, January 13 in the Community Room at the Vartan Gregorian Bath House Community Room, 455 Wickenden Street. State Orders National Grid to Update Cost In December, the Rhode Island Energy Facility Siting Board, EFSB, ordered National Grid to update its cost estimate for burying the waterfront power lines that mar the view in Providence and East Providence by September 30, 2014. About 30 supporters of Friends of India Point Park, FIPP, turned out for the meeting demonstrating the widespread support for the improvement that will benefit both cities and Rhode Island, David Riley, FIPP co-chairman, said. “We’ve been asking for this update for four years and the Board’s new leadership has finally made it happen,” Riley added. “This battle is far from over, but getting the updated estimate finally underway is a big breakthrough,” Riley pointed out. “We hope that National Grid officials will be persuaded by the Board’s determination and the growing public support to finally get behind the project after resisting it for 11 years.” Apparently, the state board agreed. “Everyone in this room wants to see this done,” said Janet Coit, director of the Department of Environmental Management and EFSB board member. FIPP met it’s initial goal of 1,000 signatures from persons living in all of Rhode Island’s 39 towns on its online petition in time for the December hearing, Riley pointed out. FIPP has set a new goal of 1,500 signatures to the online petition, which can be accessed at www.friendsofindiapointpark.org. As of now, about 300 people from towns outside of Providence have signed the petition, indicating that it is a statewide issue, Riley concluded. With several candidates announcing for governor, FPNA will be seeking their support on this important issue at upcoming membership meetings in
the coming months. FPNA Launches Monument Fund Drive FPNA, at its December Board Meeting, donated $1,000 to a Plaques Restoration Fund for the Roger Williams Landing Monument on Gano Street, which marks the location where the city’s founder first stepped in 1636. FPNA Vice President Daisy Schnepel reported at the October board meeting that there was an initial $500 pledge from a member to help fund the restoration and replacement of the 1906 plaques to the park’s monument. “Because of the membership’s interest, generosity and membership dues we begin this project with $1,800,” Schnepel said. “Although there is quite a bit of work and research necessary to get these plaques recast, it is an exciting project for FPNA’s commitment in the new year of 2014.” FPNA is a 501-C-3 organization, meaning all contributions are tax-deductible, she pointed out. “I just want to let the membership know how much we appreciate their interest in preserving this monument.” FPNA also is pursuing funding initiatives and grants through historical organizations, the City, State and Federal Governments and other sources, she indicated. If you would be interested in contributing or joining FPNA’s Plaques Restoration Fund, contact fpna@cox. net or call 270-7121. FPNA Offers Merchant and Organization Memberships Last year, FPNA began offering memberships to merchants and organizations at $25 and $35 levels. These members would be able to vote at annual meetings on board member elections, Schnepel said. “We hope these merchant memberships could spur increased merchant involvement – something that FPNA has lacked in the past,” she added. If you are a merchant and would like to explore how FPNA could better serve the commercial districts of Wickenden, Ives, Hope and South Main streets, consider attending a monthly board meeting to let us know how you feel. For more information on the organization’s mission, goals and issues, please visit our website, www.fpna.net. National Grid and Governor Street Trees A spokesman from National Grid told some concerned Fox Pointers at the December board meeting that the new electric duct installation along Governor Street will not adversely affect
February 2014 East Side Monthly
9
Community News
neighborhood trees. Marisa Albanese, Community and Customer Manager, said the company hopes to complete the work during the winter, weather permitting. “Although we will be digging under the sidewalk, we plan to tunnel below the tree roots and do not anticipate having to remove any trees,” she said. As an extra measure, National Grid will monitor the trees’ health in the construction area for a period of two years, she added. If any trees are compromised, Albanese said National Grid would work with the Doug Still (City Forester) to provide a replacement per the city’s specifications. Albanese added that National Grid workers would replace all brick and sidewalk removed during the process. “They’ll leave it as they found it, “she emphasized.
Blackstone Parks by Jane Peterson Blackstone Parks Phone Number: 270-3014 Website: www.blackstoneparksconservancy.org Mailing Address: P.O. Box 603141, Providence, RI 02906 “Aw, Do We Have to Go?” Groans often accompany the thought of attending an annual meeting – we all know what a yawn they can be. But the annual meetings of the Blackstone Parks Conservancy are different. Here are five reasons to find an hour and a half for the upcoming BPC get-together March 11: 1. We start with a brief party and you are our guests. Sure, this is serious business, but we are also out to celebrate the good year that was 2013 and to thank the supporters and volunteers on whom we depend. 2. BPC reports are short and to the point, and our speakers are known to be interesting. Architectural
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East Side Monthly February 2014
historian Mack Woodward engaged the audience in a lively discussion last March. This year’s keynoter, historian Morgan Grefe, is executive director of the Rhode Island Historical Society. She, too, has a reputation as a lively speaker. Morgan’s field is American history. And fortunately for us, she is keen about her challenge: to describe the Blackstone parks in the context of the era in which they were created. The late 19th and early 20th centuries were times of great change in Providence. Thanks to Sarah Gleason and others we know a fair amount about the early days of Blackstone Boulevard, now on the National Register. But we have found relatively little information about the Wayland Square area (formerly the country estate of Moses Brown) and the early years of Blackstone Park overlooking the Seekonk River. 3. You will be able to actually hear Morgan and our brief reports. We no longer have to compete with restaurant noise as in two earlier meetings. 4. We meet at Lippitt House, built in 1865, one year before Blackstone Park was created. If you’ve never been inside the mansion, you can explore the first floor of this beautifully restored renaissance revival mansion freely. Museum personnel are on hand to answer questions. If you already know the place, you can simply bask in its exquisite craftsmanship. 5. You can meet the people behind the list of names of board members and tell them what you think should be done for our parks. We welcome this chance to see old friends and to meet new people. To be sure, we are proud of our role as partner with the City Parks Department managing the Blackstone Boulevard Park and the Blackstone Park Conservation District. But we know we can do better. Please let us hear your ideas for making this happen. In 2014 we will seek to consolidate the gains of the last few years and
build a platform for thriving in the years to come. As protector of two of Providence’s oldest parks, the Conservancy will continue to: 1. Strengthen bonds with friends such as Save the Bay and the Audubon Society and science consultants, thus continuing to enhance our effectiveness as park supporters. This last year we began working with supporters of the Paterson Playground, nestled in a corner of the Conservation District. Our new collaboration with the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) – for which we have the Partnership for Providence Parks to thank – exemplifies the potential for tapping into new resources. 2. Strive toward wise stewardship. This means renewing efforts to learn how best to manage stormwater runoff and erosion and how to control invasive species, two major challenges. In 2013, BPC board members participated in a new group formed to raise awareness of stormwater issues. Some of us also took the URI course in Invasive Plant Management. This spring we will launch implementation of the DEM-RIDOT trails grant (more in coming months). We are also helping the Parks Department update the path down the middle of the Boulevard. 3. Expand our education outreach to children and adults, working with local schools, neighbors and parents. We depend heavily on residents of the East Side of Providence, but like our sister park, historic Neutakonkanut Hill, we also depend on Providence and Pawtucket residents elsewhere as well as non-residents who value the taste of nature that our two conservancies offer. 4. Recruit more help from volunteers with various skills. We especially need help with volunteer management and publicity. We also need hands-on assistance with invasive plant management. All in the service of Healthy Urban Green Space for All. Events
Annual Meeting, Tuesday, March 11, 6-7:30pm, Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum, at the corner of Hope and Angell streets. Refreshments will be provided. Please remember to save those Eastside Market receipts. You can mail them to the address above or hand them over to anyone on the BPC board.
Wayland Square by David Kolsky Neighborhood Discussion Group at Books on the Square Website: groups.yahoo.com/group/ waylandsquare Next Meetings 7 to 8:45pm, Wednesday, February 26, Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street at Elmgrove, next to CVS. Free and open to all. Thayer Street Study Elsewhere on these pages, you should read about the new Thayer Street Planning Study, which has many excellent ideas. Unfortunately (in my strictly personal opinion) it also has some very grave flaws, at least in the summary that was presented in public for the first time last December. There’s an underlying premise that Thayer Street needs more intense commercial development, although one that is carefully controlled and oriented towards “higher end” retail business. It’s hard to see how this corrects the loss in recent years of neighborhood-oriented services to an almost-exclusive dedication to selling food, drink and clothes. The study’s economic consultants saw increased trade being drawn from an area that includes Wayland Square and Wickenden Streets. Saving students long walks to get essentials is good, but I see far less argument for creating new higher-end business (in an already heavily-developed area) that would partly depend
Community News
on drawing customers away from other struggling business districts. But my deepest objection is to rezoning Brook Street from residential to commercial-residential from Lloyd Avenue to Angell Street. After nine houses have already been demolished for Gilbane Corporation’s student residential monolith at 257 Thayer Street, the proposed rezoning would threaten eight houses on two blocks to the north, and about another eight on the block to the south (behind Chipotle, Spat’s and the closed Tedeschi’s). This is contrary to the consensus reached at a days-long neighborhood workshop process for the East Side that began in 2007 and is only now being concluded with the adoption of a new Zoning Ordinance. But more importantly, it would finally sunder College Hill’s residential area in two, divided by a continuous commercial-academic zone extending on both sides of Thayer from Brown Street to Arlington. Now that the New Year has begun, I hope to invite speakers about both the Thayer Street study and the overall Zoning Ordinance revision to our next meeting. New Business More good commercial news: the hole left at the corner of Wayland Avenue and Medway Street (once Wayland Square Toys & Games) by Pow! Science’s departure for its Wakefield headquarters has now been filled. The new long-term tenant is Dixon & McAllister a quality casual clothing store for men and women that started in Newport. So I’m happy to report that my earlier apprehensions of an emptying-out of this corner (reinforced by Comina’s since-cancelled departure) have now been allayed. More Information Check our Yahoo! Group’s public message board (above) to stay abreast of current local events and issues. Or join the group to receive regular announcements by email, including select notices of neighborhood meetings, civic affairs and cultural events.
College Hill by Allison Spooner College Hill Neighborhood Association Phone Number: 633-5230 Website: www.collegehillna.com Email: chna@collegehillna.com Mailing Address: CHNA, P.O. Box 2442, Providence, RI 02906 CHNA Strategic Planning – Annual Goals and Objectives Our January Board meeting marked the planning of the CHNA annual goals and objectives for 2014-15. We welcome your thoughts and suggestions as we finalize our planning. Simply email chna@collegehillna.com. Why Become a CHNA Member? We would like to engage more of those who live, work and have an interest in College Hill. CHNA is dedicated to building community, advocating for quality of life and preserving the unique character of Providence’s College Hill neighborhood. We are a moderately sizedboard of volunteers that invest time and effort into planning social events to bring neighbors together as well as addressing specific matters that impact our neighborhood. These matters include property development, crime prevention and safety, graffiti and parking issues. We work in a collaborative effort with local institutions and groups, neighborhood associations, city departments and officials, as well as residents on issues impacting our neighborhood. CHNA is part of the Brown Working Group and has been one of the stakeholders represented in the Thayer Street Planning Study this past year. 2014 Target CHNA Initiatives For the upcoming year, CHNA discussion points will include the Thayer Street Planning Study initiatives, updating the CHNA website, securing 501c3 status, producing more CHNA social events and acquiring additional nominees for CHNA Board seats. If you are interested in
becoming a Board nominee, please submit an email to nominating@collegehillna.com. Thayer Street Planning Study The updated presentation is posted on the Planning Department website at www.providenceri.com/planning/ thayer-street-planning-study. CHNA will continue to participate in an ongoing committee that will continue to manage improvements in the Thayer Street area. As mentioned within the presentation, CHNA will also work closely with the Board of Licenses to create a policy that outlines rules, regulations and violations for established and new businesses in the Thayer Street Area, assesses whether probationary status will be enacted for new businesses, and to addresses smoking establishments. We will also continue to work closely with the new Executive Director of the Thayer Street District Management Authority to assist in implementation of new study initiatives. February 3 CHNA Board Meeting Update on work of I-195 Commission At the next CHNA Board meeting scheduled for Monday, February 3, we welcome Jan Brodie, Executive Director of the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission, who will be offering an update on the Commission’s work to date. CHNA Board meetings are open to the public. Please see our website at www.collegehillna.com for additional details. CHNA Membership Dues Reminder A reminder to our members that CHNA dues are due. The calendar year marks the due date. To become a new CHNA member (or renew), for only $20 per year, visit our website, www.collegehillna.com and click “Join CHNA.” Checks may be made out to CHNA Attn: Treasurer, Box 2442, Providence, RI 02906. Be sure to include your email and mailing address. More on the CHNA Website Visit www.collegehillna.com for additional updates on special use permits, crime activity, local resources, events and neighborhood activities.
February 2014 East Side Monthly
11
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Saint Teresa of Avila is one of the properties on the PPS Most Endangered Properties list for 2014, like these buildings on the right
Broad Street Synagogue
Back to the Future New faces and new objectives at Providence Preservation Society Written by Mary K Connor PhotograPhy by Jesse BurKe & MiKe BraCa
Photography: Jesse Burke
Providence Preservation Society has
been around for almost 60 years. It is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, preservation organizations in the city. We all know at least the outlines of the story of how PPS came to be: a group of dedicated, unrelenting and obviously very smart women (isn’t that always the story?) banded together, fought the powers that were and (voila!) Benefit Street’s Mile of History was saved from the wrecking ball of 1950s-style urban renewal. PPS has never let up on that mission of advocacy and education. After almost six decades, the culture has changed. The importance of preserving our historic properties is now accepted as a given. Right? Well, not entirely. Not all of the time. Structures are still threatened. Downtown is a work in progress. I-195 parcels are opportunities to be won or lost. Parking surfaces pave the State Capitol lawn. Many challenges remain. We can’t take the past hard work and resulting successes of PPS (and its many partners) for granted. With a new Executive Director now on board (its fifth in ten years), PPS is ready to face today’s challenges head
on and, as always, collaboratively, with as many of us engaged as possible. Brent Runyon, who came to Providence by way of Thomasville Landmarks, a non-profit preservation organization in Thomasville, Georgia (just north of Tallahassee), began his tenure at PPS in early November. Runyon earned an undergraduate and graduate degree in Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked in the engineering field for five years before discovering, through volunteer work in his community, that he had a strong interest in historic preservation advocacy. And engineering, he says, turned out to not be that much fun. Runyon earned a masters degree in Historic Preservation at the University of Georgia and was the Executive Director at Thomasville Landmarks for over seven years before coming to PPS. That longevity on the job was a plus in the eyes of the Search Committee. “It takes a lot of work to come on board and get up to speed,” says Runyon. “The committee was looking to have some level of confidence that I would stay on the job for a good while.” Runyon
assured the committee that he would, and that he would quickly adjust to the cold weather. “I’ve invested in winter gear - lots of wool,” he jokes, pointing out his thick wool socks, definitely a necessity for the Florida native on that particular day. What, exactly, enticed Runyon to leave the warm environs of Thomasville – which he describes as “a very beautiful place” of 20,000 residents and ten historic districts – for Providence? “In doing my research, I was most impressed with the creative energy I found to be present in Providence. The people I met in the interview process were passionate supporters of PPS, its mission and of the community as a whole. I am also impressed by the variety of architecture in Providence. The colonial buildings, of course, but the variety is also to be noted. And the colleges inject such energy into a community, obviously.” Robert Taylor, Vice President of the Board of Trustees, was co-chair of the Search Committee. “We had a very good committee, with PPS Trustees as well as representatives from the city and from Brown. We wanted to include stakeholders as well as partners. A focus for
February 2014 East Side Monthly
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us was to build on the strong position we were in, coming into this year, which was due in large part to the work of the outgoing Executive Director, James Hall.” Anytime an organization goes through the process of hiring a new leader is usually a time of taking stock and assessing future needs. That was definitely the case prior to Hall’s hiring, says Board of Trustees President Lucie Searle. “We spent a good nine months of introspection and defining strategic directions.” The trustees settled on four broad areas of focus: Programs – revitalizing all programs to make them rigorous in their depth; Advocacy – ensuring that preservation is embedded in everyday decision-making within the community; Real Estate – strengthening PPS’s role of stewardship of historic properties, starting with PPS properties (the Brick School House and Shakespeare’s Head); and Funding – securing a sustainable and diversified source of funding. Both Taylor and Searle credit James Hall with having reinvigorated PPS’s role within the community, and they are both confident that in Runyon they have found the right person to continue that work. “Brent clearly brings his preservation experience and skills to the job,” says Taylor. “He will be a very capable leader in terms of administrative skills, but we were also very impressed with the amount of thought he has put into answering the question – How must we adapt current views (about preservation) as we move forward, so that preservation continues to be ingrained in our conversations about urban policies?” Searle is equally confident. “I am impressed with the comprehensiveness of his experience. He is trained as an engineer. He is a professional preservationist, degreed in Historic Preservation. He has hands-on experience, having overseen preservation projects. He has experience in planning – both urban and strategic. He has the administrative background and has testified in front of public bodies. If there were a check list – he has all the items checked off.” When interviewed for this article, Runyon had been on the job just six weeks. Because PPS has such a strong staff, Runyon says, he was
able to concentrate on the administrative part of his job in the early weeks. The first thing he tackled was to prepare the budget for the year beginning on January 1. “It is a balanced budget, for the first time in many years, one that is not reliant on using money from reserve funds – which is not an uncommon prac-
a full-time job!), other key city staff members and staff and directors from PPS’s non-profit partners. He had a good start in getting to know the broader community as well, as the kickoff of this year’s Providence Symposium series (Not Always Easy: Building the New Urban Experience) took place just a few days after his
PPS’s Executive Director Brent Runyon
tice in the non-profit world, particularly at this time.” Runyon was also making a point of meeting individually with all of his trustees, as well as with various candidates for public office (watch out – that could become
arrival in Providence. Regarding the fundraising aspect of his job, Runyon notes that over the recent past PPS has made a concerted effort to eliminate one or more of its annual events as fundraising tools.
Events take up an inordinate amount of staff time in a small organization. PPS has instead forged many alliances with corporate partners – about 26 currently – as part of its fundraising strategy. “Corporations appreciate being asked for money just one time a year and, as partners, they receive periodic updates and other benefits such as invitations to special presentations,” says Runyon. “This year, PPS is going to focus on recruiting more individual donors, with a concerted outreach to both regain members who have lapsed and to attract others who ‘should’ be members, and to solicit their financial support in the process.” PPS has a lot on its agenda for 2014. A strategic planning process is underway. In terms of advocacy efforts, Runyon knows that downtown will continue to be a focus, and that PPS will be involved in the conversations about development of the I-195 property and the vacant Superman Building. Runyon calls proposals for more surface parking in the area of the State Capitol “a huge issue for Providence,” saying such proposals are in direct conflict with the rules adopted years ago by the Capital Center Commission. In fact, shortly after coming on the job, the Most Endangered Properties list was being discussed and Runyon asked why this land had not been included. “The area around the Capitol is an historic landscape, equally important to the built environment and historical preservation as actual structures.” As this article goes to print, PPS will have just concluded its Annual Meeting, with Jennifer Bradley of the Brookings Institute and co-author of The Metropolitan Revolution, as the keynote speaker. At that meeting, PPS unveiled this year’s Most Endangered Properties Photo Exhibit. PPS plans to use the Most Endangered list more effectively this year, says Runyon, taking the exhibit on the road to various venues, using it as a way to begin direct conversations with people about the importance of historic preservation. Having direct conversations with people in the community must have been exactly how the founders of PPS began their work almost 60 years ago. Lucie Searle says we should not lose sight of the huge
Save the Date: The PP s Win Ter Bash Voted RI’s best party, Providence Preservation Society’s Winter Bash is the event of the year. Staged at a new location each year, this fabulously
fun event brings attention to new preservation projects and gathers young preservationists from across the city to network and celebrate.
This year’s theme is a retro prom. Dress up and party the night away. When: Saturday, March 29 Where: American Locomotive
Works (ALCO), 555 Valley Street, Providence. For more information: call PPS offices at 831-7440 or visit www.ppsri.org.
February 2014 East Side Monthly
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East Side Monthly February 2014
2014 ProvidenCe PreservaTion soCieTy’s MosT endangered ProPerTies
impact the founders had on Providence, simply by demanding an answer to the question, “Do we have to destroy our past to maintain our communities?” This is the same question being asked today. And it isn’t rhetorical. “PPS established, really for the first time, that preservation could be a tool in revitalizing communities.” She is referring to the groundbreaking study, “College Hill: A Demonstration Study of Historic Area Renewal.” Financed by PPS’s founders, the City of Providence and a federal grant, the study documented, for the first time in measurable terms, the very real economic benefits of historic preservation. Many factors have gone into the widely hailed rejuvenation of Providence over the past decades, but historic preservation has undoubtedly played a major role. PPS is fully committed to continuing the advocacy and education efforts of its founders. “Even in our events,” says Searle, “we are very conscious of content.” 2014’s Festival of Historic Houses is a good example. PPS participated in the “conversations” surrounding Gilbane’s Thayer Street project (nine homes were demolished to make way for a new apartment complex). It was a wake-up call. “There was no protection for those nine houses.” While Searle sees the project’s final design as “much more sensitive to the area” than it would have been, the experience prompted PPS to take a look within the adjacent neighborhood area (Cooke, Manning, etc.). The area is being surveyed now – the first step in making it a local historic district. This year’s Festival tour will be of homes in this neighborhood – another part of PPS’s ongoing “conversations” with the community about the importance of historic preservation. After just a few months on the job, Brent Runyon is equally enthusiastic. “Preservation efforts go back to the ‘60s, in other cities, but Providence was on the forefront. PPS has been so successful in the past – I am confident that a lot can be accomplished.”
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Photography: Jesse Burke
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February Vacation Done Right 10 family friendly funtimes for winter break by elyena de GoGuel School vacations are a little slice of heaven a precious pocket of freedom that, to adolescents, probably seems sweeter than even the syrupiest of coffee milks. While many kids and teens may choose to spend the upcoming February break zoned out in front of various screens, there are plenty of alternatives in and around the East Side for those who crave action and adventure in a more real sense... and not just for play.
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Providence Children’s Film Festival, February 13-23 Feed your child’s inner movie monster at the fifth annual Providence Children’s Film Festival, a nationally recognized celebration featuring productions that explore issues related to youngsters and teens around the world. This year the fest plays host to films from Japan, France, the Netherlands and Uruguay (among others), and local Rhode Island filmmaker Mitty Mirrer will present and discuss her documentary, Gold Star Children. Stick around after each flick and expand your child’s (and your own) movie loving mind via some enlightening conversation. Most films are appropriate for ages 3-18. $6 for children/$8 for adults. Multiple times and locations. 209-7585. www.pcffri.org.
Narragansett Bay’s winter vacation camp. This five-day experience based out of the Save the Bay Center in Providence introduces campers to a variety of scientific instruments and sea dwelling creatures. Attendees will also set sail on one of Save the Bay’s special research vessels to take a peek at Narragansett’s own harbor seals frolicking amongst the surf. For students in grades 3 through 5. $250 members/$275 nonmembers. 8:30am-4:30pm. 100 Save The Bay Drive, Providence. 272-3540 x139. www.savethebay.org.
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Winter Scenes Vacation Camp for Kids, February 17-21 Channel your child’s innate creative nature this winter break. RISD offers
Photo: courtesy of Save the Bay
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Narragansett Bay Winter Vacation Camp, February 17-21 Ahoy mateys! If your youngster is a salty sea-scientist at heart who is interested in all things ocean related, then sign that curious crustacean up for
“Young Engineer” event (February 22), participants will meet with civil engineers and engage in civil planning challenges. All ages. Free for members/$9 non-member. 11am-2pm both days. 100 South Street, Providence. 273-5437. www.childrenmuseum.org.
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Rock Spot Vacation Camp, February 17-24 Help your brood release some of that seemingly endless vacation energy during Rock Spot’s vacation camp. This weeklong event at Rock Spot’s Lincoln location encourages kids to exercise in a fun, creative and safe manner. Campers will play climbing games, engage in team building activities and learn how to belay. Half
Friday Night Live, February 21 February break is the perfect opportunity to get involved in Providence’s comedy scene. Encourage your budding comedian to experience Friday Night Live, an outrageous all ages show that includes song, dance, laughter and tears (from too much laughing, no worries). Expect the unexpected at this ridiculous, thought provoking show. And, hey, if your kid/teen enjoys this weekly event, then congrats… you’ve just won a child free hour every Friday night for the foreseeable future! All ages. $5. 7-8pm. 9 Duncan Ave, Providence. 8319479. www.everettri.org
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Roger Williams Park Zoo Winter Camp, February 18-21 Is your little one a lover of all creatures great, small, furry and (eek!) scaly? Enroll your mini-zoologist in Roger Williams Park Zoo’s winter camp. Each day attendees will engage in activities and crafts related to this year’s theme, “Ice and Snow, Where Do They Go?” which explores the cold weather habits of animals. Campers will also get to interact with furry friends and go on guided tours of the zoo. Ages 6-10. All four days: $165 members/$190 non-members. Single days: $46 members/$54 non-members. 8:30am-3:30pm. 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence. 785-3510. www.rwpzoo.org.
RISD’s winter camp for teens. Throughout the week, attendees will learn the intricacies of filmmaking from beginning to completion while creating their own chuckle inducing, handmade short films. Ages 13-17. $540. 10am-4:30pm. RISD Campus. 454-6200. ce.risd.edu.
Channel your youngster’s inner marine biologist at Save the Bay’s Narragansett Bay Winter Vacation Camp February 17-21
a five-day artistic intensive centered around storytelling. Each participant will construct a mini-theater with which they will tell a tale of their own choosing, to be performed for visitors at the end of camp. Throughout the experience, campers will learn the fundamentals of drawing, painting, sculpture and architecture. Ages 7-12. $470. 9am-4pm. Tillinghast Farm 231 Benefit St, Providence. 454-6200. http://ce.risd.edu
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Movie Masterworks: The Face of Funny Vacation Camp for Teens, February 17-21 Humor is perhaps one of the trickiest artforms, and without it, existence would be bleak! Expose your not-solittle one to the hilarious world of visual comedy, from Chaplin to Seth Meyers, at
and full day options available. Your little ones will literally be allowed to jump off of the walls! Ages 6 and up. Full days: $85 single/$350 week. Half days: $50 single/$195 week. 9am4pm. 100 Higginson Ave, Lincoln. 7271704. www.rockspotclimbing.com.
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Providence Children’s Museum Special Events: Be An Engineer & Young Engineer, February 15 & 22 In celebration of National Engineers Week, the Providence Children’s museum will host two special events geared towards those who yearn to build, construct and connect. At the “Be an Engineer” event (February 15), kids will be able to visit various activity stations, meet with real engineers and conduct experiments using the ooiest, gooiest of materials. At the
Ms. Z’s Wild and Wonderful Story and Craft Hour, February 19 Ms. Z, aka Zara the Giraffe, is Providence Athenaeum’s resident nonhuman storyteller. Expose your tot to thrilling tales of animal-themed adventures during her weekly story and craft hour. After listening to fascinating tales of wild things from around the world, attendees get to unleash their own inner wildling during a simple, fun craft activity. Hooray for st-ROAR-y telling! All ages. Free. 3:30-4:30pm. 251 Benefit Street, Providence. 421-6970. www. providenceathenaeum.org.
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Storytime for Kids at Books on the Square, February 18, 19, 22 In an age of constant visual and aural stimulation, sometimes simply sitting and listening to someone read can be a refreshing activity, not to mention an exercise in patience and concentration. Expand your young child’s imagination this winter break while feeding their inner bookworm during Storytime for Kids at Books on the Square. The beloved bookshop offers three storytime sessions throughout the week for youngsters up to 6 years old. Free. Tues and Wed: 10:30am, Sat: 11am. 471 Angell Street, Providence. 331-9097. www.booksq.com.
February 2014 East Side Monthly
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East Side Monthly February 2014
During
these
cold
winter
months, a library is an especially nice place to go to – whether it is to find a good book or to take part in an interesting program with your neighbors. February is a particularly lively month at the nine libraries of the Providence Community Library. Two of our libraries are located on the East Side: Fox Point on the corner of Ives and Wickenden Streets, and Rochambeau on Hope Street near Rochambeau. In February, besides holding their regular ongoing programs, each PCL library will host a special party for children during the school vacation week. The party at Fox Point will be on Tuesday, February 18 from 5-7pm. The party at Rochambeau will be on Thursday, February 20 from 2-4pm. These parties will feature food, a chance to win an “iPad mini” and a free give-away of books donated by “Books are Wings” to every child who comes. The Biomes Marine Biology Center will bring marine animals to the Rochambeau party for kids to look at and touch. School vacation week is also Amnesty Week at PCL. If you bring a canned food to your library, PCL will waive all your overdue fines (of course all your overdue library material has to be returned too). All canned food collected by PCL that week will donated to the RI Community Food Bank. (Last year PCL collected 1,700 pounds of food during Amnesty Week.) Throughout the month, PCL’s ongoing activities are in full swing. At Fox Point the chess club meets every Tuesday from 3-6pm. Players of all ages and levels are welcome and instruction is provided. On Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30am there is “Cradle to Crayons” storytelling and play for children 0-3 and their parents/caregivers. At Rochambeau “Baby Books,” stories and movement for babies 0-2 years old and their parents/caregivers meets on Tuesdays at 10:30am. “Zumba4Toddlers” – Spanish music, songs and movement for 1-3 year olds and their parents/caregivers – meets
on Tuesdays at 11am. “Preschool Storytime,” stories and movement for 3-5 year old children is on Wednesdays at 10:30am . “LEGO Club” (age 5 and up) meets on Thursday and Fridays from 3-5pm. And on Thursday afternoons from 1:30-4:30pm the computer lab becomes the “Game Club” with Guild Wars, Minecraft, Roblox and Pokémon MMO available to players age 9+. Homework Help for elementary, middle and high school students is available at Rochambeau on Mondays from 6-8pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-6pm and Fridays from 1-4pm. It is available at Fox Point on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3-6pm. All nine PCL libraries offer such activities and you are invited to come to all of them. To discover their locations and the schedule of their programs, all you have to do is visit the PCL website at www.provcomlib.org. You will discover that some of the libraries feature programs that especially relate to their particular neighborhood interests, such as “Latino Movie Night” on at the South Providence Library (first and third Tuesdays, February-April). Of course libraries are not just for children. PCL’s trained navigators provide assistance on health insurance enrollment under the Affordable Care Act. At Rochambeau, drop-in hours for assistance is available on Mondays from 1:30-4:30pm. ESL classes at various skill levels are available at Knight Memorial, Mt. Peasant, Olneyville, Smith Hill, South Providence, Wanskuck and Washington Park libraries (check website for levels and hours). Rochambeau features ongoing adult study groups and events ranging from concerts to lectures in the evenings. Are you bored at home, or overrun with children who want something to do? Come to the libraries. They are free and they are yours. Fox Point Library, 90 Ives Street, Providence. 331-0390, www.provcomlib.org. Rochambeau Library, 708 Hope Street, Providence. 272-3780, www. provcomlib.org.
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Frames for TV’s Printing; Giclée,
Black & White, Sepia, Color on Paper or Canvas
gallery
401.421.6196 :: www.ProvidencePictureFrame.com I-95, Exit 24 Branch Avenue (next to Benny’s) :: Monday - Saturday 8:30-6:30
&
TAYLOR Company
The Top Producing Real Estate Team of William Raveis Rhode Island
R E S I D E N T I A LSALES S A L E S• RENTALS + R E N T A L•SINvESTMENTS + INVESTMENTS RESIdENTIAL
tandc@raveis.com • 401.270.7909
Nelson Taylor President
J.C. Standish Sales Director
Bethany Nelson
Sales & Leasing Associate
Robin Lake
203 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903
Client Care Coordinator
PA S S I o N + P Ro f E S S I o N A L I S M + P E R S E v E R A N C E
Mortgage Network, Inc. is now Open in Rhode Island! Let us answer your financing questions!
Jesse Kenner
Branch Manager, NMLS #441842 (401) 644-4066 www.KennerMortgageGuide.com
Sally Herreid
Sales Manager, NMLS #02906
(401) 965-5816 www.SallyHerreidMortgage.com
Jonathan Salinger
Sales Manager, NMLS #441854 (401) 524-4900 www.JonathanSalinger.com
Christopher Wall
Loan Officer, NMLS #1025257 (401) 787-8862 www.WallChris.com
Mortgage Network, Inc. │ 145 Wayland Avenue │ Providence, RI 02906
© 2013 Mortgage Network, Inc. NMLS ID# 2668. Rhode Island Licensed Lender 95000456LL; Massachusetts Mortgage Lender and Broker MC2668; Maine SLM2499. This is not a commitment to lend. Rates, terms, fees, and equity requirements are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply. Equal Housing Lender.
22
East Side Monthly February 2014
Spotlight
AutoWerks Small savings may not add up for your car Beautiful Pre-Owned Jewelry
437-8421 • 1271 North Main Street, Providence 273-7050 • 358 Broad Street, Providence
Membership...It’s more than just fitness! Many clients ask Bob
Moreau of AutoWerks about the difference between their minor service and that of a quick-lube facility given the price differential. When choosing the less expensive option, it’s important to understand exactly what you are giving up. It’s past time to rethink routine maintenance. “Oil changes” are much different today because service intervals are longer; 10,000 miles versus 3,000 miles in the past. Now, many vehicles are seen only once per year for maintenance – don’t you want AutoWerks’ highly-trained brand-specific technicians carefully inspecting the myriad parts in your automobile? Will the brakes last until the next service? The belts? Ball joints? Tires? Remember that pot hole… is your suspension still safe? An expert inspecting your car may notice something that needs attention that you aren’t aware of (a preventative repair that could save thousands). Much like your annual physical, AutoWerks believes in long-term preventative maintenance to avoid costly surprises. Don’t underestimate the importance of using the manufacturers recommended lubricants and filters as well. Your car is designed to perform optimally using these. Most garages, and quick lube places, do not carry original equipment parts and fluids or know to use synthetic oil. Any quick oil change place can pull the drain plug and remove the oil filter, but do you trust that the drain plug was reinstalled without stripping the aluminum threads and that it was torqued to manufacturers’ specs? And that the filter is of sufficient quality to actually clean your oil till next time? In numerous states, Jiffy Lube, for example, faces class action lawsuits for not meeting basic care standards. Along with building trust, safety and vehicle longevity are the priority at AutoWerks. As is the case with many things, the adage “you get what you pay for” also applies to car maintenance. Make sure the investment you make in your vehicle is well protected. AutoWerks guarantees to give your car all the special attention it requires, offers free pick up and delivery and will return your vehicle washed and cleaned as well. Call them today.
It’s an open door to a variety of outstanding social, cultural, and educational activities that celebrate family, foster health and well-being, embrace tradition, and expand cultural horizons.
All are welcome at the Alliance JCC! 401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 401.421.4111 | jewishallianceri.org
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Large Format Color Printing
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Complete post-surgery rehab serviCes
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100 Smithfield Road, North Providence • 401.353.1710 GoldenCrestNursingCentre.com February 2014 East Side Monthly
23
Spotlight
special advertising section
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24
East Side Monthly February 2014
100 Highland Avenue, Suite 305 // 865-6940 Providence // Summit Medical Bldg. 1528 Cranston Street // 228-7216 Cranston // Spine Tech Bldg.
www.Libertypt.com
Northeast Chiropractic is the office of Dr. Thomas Morison. Dr. Morison specializes in Chiropractic Biophysics Technique (CBP®). He is the only Certified Distinguished Fellow of CBP practicing in the state of Rhode Island. Dr. Morison is passionate about improving the quality of life for each and every patient. Among the many conditions successfully treated at Northeast Chiropractic are migraine headaches, spinal pain, pinched nerves, disc injuries, sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, shoulder and arm pain, poor posture, whiplash and jaw pain. Dr. Morison is honored to be able to help the people of Rhode Island whom he sees not only as patients, but as his community. Yelp review: Dr. Tom is the most honest and straightforward doctor you will ever meet. Before going here, I swore off chiropractors forever but this was highly recommended. The doctor will first take x-rays of you in the office and then treatment begins. You can go as little as you want for pain relief or three times a week if you are wanting to fix the problem. I had TMJ and he was able to fix it in one visit! I also had horrible shoulder/neck pain which does not bother me 24/7 anymore! My significant other had a back problem so bad he was crawling up our house stairs at his worst. A specialist diagnosed surgery as the cure but now after seeing the doctor for a period of time he is able to play basketball! Really wish Dr. Tom was a primary care doctor. I could go on and on but if you are in pain go here! – Cristina W.
Northeast Chiropractic 187 Waterman Street, Providence 861-1300 / www.wickedgoodposture.com
Spotlight
by Dan Schwartz
&
TAYLOR
Taylor and Company A boutique real estate group within William Raveis
Company
RESIDENTIAL SALES + RENTALS + INVESTMENTS
Real Estate • Sales Leasing • Investments
401-270-7909 • 203 South Main Street Providence • TandC@Raveis.com
www.WRRealty.com
The Top Producing Real Estate Team of William Raveis Rhode Island
William Raveis The Largest Family-Owned Real Estate Company in the Northeast
T.F. Morra Tree Care, Inc.
Ornamental and Shade Tree Specialists
• fine hand pruning • tree preservation • hazard tree removal • tree evaluation & diagnosis • shade and specimen tree planting 401-331-8527 • www.TFMorra.com We print practically
Photography: Dan Schwartz
Nelson Taylor, President of
Taylor & Company under the auspices of William Raveis, has organized a high performance team who work collaboratively on real estate needs. J.C. Standish operates as Sales Director, Bethany Nelson is a Sales & Leasing Associate and Robin Lake organizes it all as the Client Care Coordinator. Real estate agents traditionally compete with one another, where each person has to individually handle a large number of tasks. Their team approach – supported by their pooled commission structure – allows each member’s strength to shine and eliminates redundancy. “Taylor & Company uniquely offers a collaborative approach to leverage knowledge, skills, technology and attention to detail to offer clients unprecedented customer service,” says Taylor. Standish adds, “Historic low inventory on the East Side and rising interest rates are creating opportunities for sellers. There is so little to show our clients that we’ve had to solicit neighborhoods in order to find them the right property. List now, not later.” The skill of properly assessing your home’s value and knowing whether to invest in remodeling are challenging decisions best left to the professionals. Nelson Taylor has been in the real estate business for many years and his team knows the Rhode Island housing market very well. They will help guide you toward obtaining top value for your home. Taylor & Company utilizes top-of-the-line technology, enabling them to locate properties faster and to efficiently match up qualified buyers with sellers. Their cloud-based software allows for instantaneous notification among all four team members, translating into faster targeted service and communicating with clients. Taylor & Company is based in a historic structure on South Main Street. They have the added benefit of the support of William Raveis, the #1 family-owned real estate company in the Northeast and #3 nationwide. This gives you the dual advantage of having a sharp local team with the network connections of a nationally renowned real estate company. At Taylor & Company, you truly have a team behind you.
Taylor and Company / William Raveis 203 South Main Street, Providence 270-7909 / www.WRRealty.com
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We service and repair ALL foreign and domestic models • ASE Certified • RI inspection and repair station #27b Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
729 East Avenue • 401-723-1111 (Top of the East Side, next door to Rite Aid)
February 2014 East Side Monthly
25
“Because of RIMI, my rare brain tumor was found and treated quickly.” ~Jonathan
World class medical imaging …. focusing on me. Jonathan’s mother knew that something was wrong with her 14 year-old son’s hand tremor. She was glad that his pediatric neurologist recommended Rhode Island Medical Imaging for his brain MRI as Jonathan was diagnosed with a very rare brain tumor. Fortunately, it was benign and surgery was able to remove it. You have a choice in your imaging provider. Ask your doctor to send you to the premier radiology group in Rhode Island.
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w w w. r i m i r a d . c o m
Movies
by Bob Cipriano
The Art of the Con American Hustle and The Wolf of Wall Street Two superb movies, both
root- and fast-talking characters embrace the ed in American excess, feature some notion that life is a con as Bale and Adof the nation’s more outrageous life- ams swindle desperate people who can’t styles. They also expose the cold re- obtain valid bank loans. The marks hand ality behind our weakness for fakery over substantial cash to obtain the unatthat supports those lifestyles. Throw tainable. One apparent mark turns out to in the strong influence of classic movie be an F.B.I. agent, Richie DiMaso (Bradscrewball comedy and sharp, nonley Cooper), who coerces them into judgmental observation of character setting up the Abscam sting, which he (or lack thereof), and you get Amerihopes will bag politicians like a New Jercan Hustle and The Wolf of Wall Street. sey mayor, Carmine Polito (an excellent American Hustle, directed by David O. Jeremy Renner), whose basic decency is Russell, is about Irving Rosenfeld, a con compromised by notions of expediency man who runs great scams. With a belly and the lure of ambition. the size of a regulation soccer ball and The plot’s twists and turns are influa painfully complex, time-consuming enced by Lawrence’s loony hold on Bale comb-over, Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) while he and Adams try to make a life knows that appearances are everything together. That desire is even tougher to the swindles that are his life’s work. That’s why the movie opens with him customizing that hair of his into a tangled nest, symbolic of life’s masquerade. Director Russell has successfully revived screwball comedy with many of his films, especially Silver Linings Playbook, several of whose cast members show up in this crazy ensemble, along with others from The Fighter, Russell’s previous film. Even given the complexity of his plots, it is the dialogue between his men and women that make his movies work (great Howard Hawks films like Bringing Up Baby, His Girl Friday and Ball of Fire are undoubtedly the foundation for much of Russell’s work). Here, American Hustle the conversations, written by Russell and Eric Warren Singer, are rapid-fire, and hilarious, all supporting a tricky plot thanks to Cooper’s ambitious demands concerning the 1978 Abscam scandal to incriminate even higher-level politithat inspired American Hustle. cians, in spite of dangerous mob inThe film chronicles Abscam’s F.B.I. volvement (catch the excellent cameo probe into political corruption (via a appearance by Robert De Niro). How sting to buy off corrupt politicians) that everything plays out is consistently inled to the arrest of a number of them. triguing. The comedy is adeptly written With spirited voiceover from Bale and and impeccably performed (particularly Amy Adams (as Sydney, Bale’s love-atby Bale, Adams and Lawrence, who all first-sight girlfriend and partner), about push well beyond their previous comic their tricky talents and their clever de- performances). And the film’s betweenceptions of marks, the two bicker, banter, the-lines implications about how people bob and weave beautifully, interrupted inside and outside the law behave make occasionally by Irving’s homebound, American Hustle not only a delight to opinionated, occasionally tipsy and al- see but one of the year’s best movies. ways ditsy wife, Rosalyn (an amazing The Wolf of Wall Street is directed by Jennifer Lawrence). Martin Scorsese, the other major influence Russell’s fast-paced camera action on American Hustle’s David O. Russell.
That fast–paced camera action in American Hustle is the offspring of Mean Streets, Goodfellas and so much else that Scorsese has directed. The Wolf of Wall Street is, structurally, a very close relative to Goodfellas, which centered on a charismatic criminal (Ray Liotta) whose extravagances and crimes were showcased via his own narration and documented with an objectivity that drew no lines between attraction and revulsion. It’s the same deal with The Wolf of Wall Street, with stockbrokers seamlessly replacing mobsters. There are few actors, if any, in films today who can exert the charm that Leonardo DiCaprio is capable of (as he’s done twice this year, in The Great Gatsby as well as in this
film). Here, his insatiable greed, drug addiction and promiscuity never appear to be quite as despicable as they really are because it’s DiCaprio who’s doing it. But this moral dilemma is appropriate because The Wolf of Wall Street is a story about a guy, Jordan Belfort, who really did all the things DiCaprio does in this movie, back in the ‘80s. And as despicable as his actions and motivations were, they were nothing compared to the things that happened on Wall St. that wrecked the economy a decade later. So maybe we can all be forgiven if elements of Belfort’s story play like an awful lot of fun. Go ahead and revel uncomfortably as DiCaprio narrates his descent into
moral depravity as a rite of passage rather than a descent into hell. Watch him shift from the eager young stockbroker wannabe under the tutelage of Matthew McConaughey to the sociopathic salesman who endures the 1987 economic collapse to become the king of a storefront penny-stock outfit, from which he creates a high-end brokerage. The greedy young brokers who rush to him there are lured by the promise of huge profits and infinite decadence. But above all, they are entranced by DiCaprio’s charisma. DiCaprio hires Jonah Hill as his kid partner in crime, squanders his loyal wife (Cristin Milioti) for a sleeker, bustier model (Margot Robbie) and consistently conducts himself appallingly and often very amusingly. Misogyny, humiliation, betrayal, stupidity, promiscuity and bad taste run rampant as obscene profits continue to pile up. The sub-text in all of this is that the greed that motivates the movie’s principals also motivates the investors who allow it all to happen by buying so many different pigs in so many different pokes. As in much of the Scorsese portfolio, The Wolf of Wall Street exposes an avid fascination with the ugly world it describes. Three hours of excessive filming of excessive desires and habits is a bit much. Scorsese’s plot doesn’t so much move on a dramatic timeline as it collects and illustrates events in a particular life and a particular era. Maybe cutting an orgy or two, or one of DiCaprio’s motivational tirades to the brokerage troops would have made for a tighter movie. But the dynamism of the filming, the acting and the screenplay (by Terence Winter) are dazzling. As usual, Scorsese refuses to step back and dictate a moral stance that his audience should adopt. Instead, he lets this world turn on its own axis, exerting a gravity that may be irresistible. So if you find you’ve just spent three hours celebrating along with DiCaprio during his triumphs, or sympathizing with him during his defeats, you may do well to look within for answers.
February 2014 East Side Monthly
27
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East Side Monthly February 2014
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The Right Care, Right Now
Providence ArcAde 65 Weybosset street Providence • 351-7587
1195 North Main Street, Providence • 401.861.3782 Mon-Fri: 9am to 8pm • Sat & Sun: 9am to 4pm
On the Menu
by Dale J Rappaneau, Jr
Keeping it Local
Great Pub Fare With An Irish Twist…
Photography: Katie Poor
Two new eateries enhance PVD’s restau-sphere On College Hill, a new restaurant business model is making waves within the community, with the arrival of the Flatbread Company. Rather than focus so heavily on local food sources, this new age pizza place focuses on financially enhancing its community through charitable donations. “We’re constantly looking for people who have non-profits,” says owner Jim Harrison. “They can get an application online or in the restaurant. [Currently] we’ve got them booked up into March. Farm Fresh Rhode Island is coming in, and the Providence Library, and the Rhode Island Bike Coalition.” After the application process, Flatbread Company assigns the non-profit to an upcoming Tuesday, when the company will donate to them $3.50 of every large pizza sold from 5-9pm. This lets the company benefit approximately four non-profits per month, depending on that month’s number of Tuesdays. “The money that people spend, we put it back into the community. We do the benefit nights and an awful lot of donations. Sometimes people come in and ask for 50 pizzas for a blood drive. We do it. It’s genuine. It’s a good concept and works.” Besides serving up donations, Flatbread Company offers a plethora of pizza choices, many of which are made with local ingredients. One of Harrison’s favorites is the Punctuated Equilibrium, featuring Kalamata olives, organic rosemary, red onions, garlic oil, goat cheese, mozzarella and fireroasted red pepper, all on the company’s flagship flatbread crust. “The pizzas are built in these giant clay ovens and cooked at 800 degrees, and we use as local and organic ingredients as we can get.” Which actually results in some interesting scenarios, such as Harrison’s current lack of local goat cheese because “[the goats are] in the process of having babies, so they don’t have the milk right now. We’re waiting.” But Harrison’s love of local has its benefits, too: of the 20 beers on draft, 16 are from the Providence area and Flatbread’s delivery services go
Where you’ll find your pot o’ gold!
Open 7 days For lunch & dinner Tuesdays, Fridays & Saturdays 8-11pm live Music Wednesdays 9pm Trivia night
Wayland Square 161 Wayland Avenue, Providence 751-3000 • www.mcbrides-pub.com Complimentary parking in the Wayland Square Lot follow us on twitter
find us on facebook!
A taste of the newly opened Flatbread Company
through Dash. “We really try to hire people from the community and put people back to work,” says Harrison, adding that “whatever this restaurant will be, it’s up to the people of Providence and Rhode Island.” 161 Cushing St. 273-2737, www. flatbreadcompany.com. Over the river and through downtown, within the renovated Arcade now lies the recently opened Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar, a cleverly named restaurant that specializes in what Executive Chef Bobby Will calls “hyper local” dishes. Unlike the traditional model of localized food, the hyper local concept, as Will describes, is a company or restaurant that sources primarily within the confines of its home state. “We want to provide guests with the freshest, most local produce possible,” says Will. “Instead of stressing something in season elsewhere, we want to buy local products and use them.” As the most obvious evolutionary step in the farm-to-fork movement, hyper local is a pursuit of passion that comes with inherent issues - all of which Rogue Island tackles with panache. For example: Rhode Island’s limited seasonal selection creates menu instability. Solution: “With hyper seasonal, the menu changes a lot,” says Will, adding that Rogue Island will be “offering a
highly seasonal menu based on what’s available from farmers.” And Will sees the instability as an opportunity to keep customers interested, because “it will change so frequently that people won’t get bored.” Next: Buying local means higher menu costs. Solution: “People keep referring to us as a cross between Farmstead and Gracie’s, in style,” says Will, in reference to his commitment to balancing ingredient quality with affordability. “Breakfast and lunch are more casual and reasonably priced, while dinner is upscale.” Lastly: Rhode Island farmers cannot produce everything a hyper local restaurants needs to operate. Solution: “Certain things like salt and olive oil, you can’t find around here. But we’ve estimated that about 80% [of the menu] is coming from RI. We’re reflecting a lot of this into our cocktails and beer, too.” What Will absolutely cannot find in Rhode Island, though, he will find elsewhere. But that’s a last resort. Rogue Island currently has its sights set on future developments to support their hyper local model, including a Rogue Island farm dedicated to the restaurant’s needs. Only time will tell if their model allows for such developments. 65 Weybosset St. 831-3733, www.facebook. com/RogueIslandLocalKitchenBar
Computer Consulting For Your Business or Home Expert Witness Web Design Repair Training Network Admin Home/Commercial
Richard Suls // 401.270.3785 richard@richardsuls.com www.richardsuls.com
February 2014 East Side Monthly
29
special advertising section
Dining Guide 2737. www.flatbreadcompany.com. LD $-$$ GOURMET HOUSE Beautiful murals and décor set the mood for delicious Cambodian and Southeast Asian cuisine, spicy curries and noodle dishes. The tamarind duck is a must. 787 Hope Street; 8313400. gourmethouseri.com LD $-$$ INDIA India maintains its traditional flavors and dishes while serving local favorites. Try their Spicy Steamed Mussels followed by Lamb Chop Kabobs for a well-rounded experience. 1060 Hope Street; 421-2600. Indiarestaurant.com BrLD $-$$
WATERMAN GRILLE
With its covered outdoor seating overlooking the Seekonk River, Waterman Grille offers seasonally inspired new American fare in a comfortable setting. 4 Richmond Square; 521-9229. watermangrille.com BrD $$-$$$
Downtown
223-0332. harukisushi.com LD $-$$$
CAV The New York Times’ choice as one of Providence’s five best restaurants, CAV’s award-winning cuisine is available for lunch and dinner daily. They also feature Saturday/Sunday brunch. 14 Imperial Place; 751-9164. cavrestaurant.com BrLD $$-$$$ HEMENWAY’S A true Providence classic, Hemenway’s has been serving topnotch seafood for 20 years. Their oyster bar features everything from the famed Prince Edward Island varieties to the local favorite Poppasquash Point. 121 South Main Street; 351-8570. hemenwaysrestaurant.com LD $$-$$$ MILLS TAVERN The only restaurant in RI to receive the Mobil Four Star Award for five consecutive years, Mills Tavern provides traditional American cuisine in a warm, friendly setting. 101 North Main Street; 272-3331. millstavernrestaurant. com D $$-$$$
Wayland/Elmgrove HARUKI EAST The chefs behind this sushi bar provide a minimalist, upscale, comfortable dining experience. Try the toro ankimo – fatty tuna and monkfish liver paté with eggplant tempura, served with a black bean sauce. 172 Wayland Avenue;
RED STRIPE Red Stripe serves classic comfort food with a French influence. Their food is reasonably priced and made with passion. 465 Angell Street; 437-6950. redstriperestaurants.com BrLD $$-$$$
Hope/Thayer BLAZE Since 2005, this fun and friendly establishment plays host to a unique bistro style of cuisine. There’s a variety of foods including Portobello Penne Pink Vodka or the Jamaican Jerk Chicken. 776 Hope Street; 277-2529. blazerestaurants.com LD $-$$ CHEZ PASCAL Chef Matt Gennuso’s East Side kitchen offers French food with a modern twist. Try the Bistro Menu (Tue-Thur), which features three courses for $35 per person. Delicieux! 960 Hope Street; 421-4422. chez-pascal.com D $-$$$ THE FLATBREAD COMPANY If noshing on pizza cooked at 800 degrees from a from-scratch built oven doesn’t get your stomach growling, than perhaps knowing that some of the proceeds from said pizza goes towards local charities will do. While you’re at it raise your seasonally-inspired cocktail and toast to this new pizza joint. 161 Cushing Street; 273-
Key
BYOB
30
Outdoor Seating
East Side Monthly February 2014
KARTABAR This European-style restaurant and lounge offers a full menu of unique dishes with Mediterranean flair and eclectic flavors. They also offer a top-notch wine list and martini menu. 284 Thayer Street; 331-8111. kartabar.com LD $-$$
Chez Pascal, featuring house–made sausages, cured meats and more. Lunch and dinner are served Tuesday through Saturday, 960 Hope Street; 421-4422. chezpascal.com LD $-$$$
Wickenden DOLCE GELATERIA This little treat shop will satisfy your sweet tooth with its homemade ice cream, gelato and warm homemade waffle cones. Stop in to visit the Lanni family for a delicious experience! 270 Wickenden Street; 944-0707. LD $ EAST SIDE CREAMERY & DINER Bring the family and indulge in 24 flavors of soft serve and hard ice cream as well as other classic diner treats. 170 Ives Street; 865-6088. BLD $
Jewelry District/Waterfront
KITCHEN BAR Offering contemporary comfort cuisine in an elegant setting, Kitchen Bar features daily specials and take-out. Try their Clams Zuppa or Coriander Encrusted Flat Iron Steak or have the kids order from the kid’s menu. 771 Hope Street; 331-4100. LD $-$$
RUE BIS This intimate eatery provides breakfast and lunch in a cozy, neighborhood bistro atmosphere – all with the gourmet pedigree of Hope Street dining staple Rue De L’Espoir behind it. 95 South Street; 490-9966. therue.com BBrL $
PARAGON Opened in 1994, this European-style bistro/café is a one-stop shop. Start the night with the Lobster Mac & Cheese and end it with one their stellar martinis at Viva, their comfortable lounge and weeknight club. 234 Thayer Street; 331-6200. www.paragonandviva. com BrLD $-$$
BAKER STREET RUE The Rue De L’Espoir empire expands with this comfortable neighborhood café serving “upscale diner food.” 75 Baker Street; 4905025. BBrLD $-$$
RUE DE L’ESPOIR In business for over 30 years, the Rue has only gotten better. Beautifully prepared with the freshest ingredients, the innovative, constantly changing menu keeps diners on their toes. Check out their superb brunch. 99 Hope Street; 751-8890. therue.com BBrLD $$-$$$
BEE’S THAI CUISINE Using the freshest ingredients to serve up such offerings as Mango Rolls, Pumpkin with Red Curry and Pineapple Fried Rice, Bee’s is a welcome addition to Providence’s culinary scene. With generous portions and friendly staff, Bee’s will keep you coming back for more. 167 Ives Street; 273-2727. LD $$
THE MEETING STREET CAFé This casual cafe offers not only delicious lunch from how-you-want-it sandwiches to lasagna, but their hearty sandwiches come with a bonus: all fresh veggie toppings are free. 220 Meeting Street; 273-1066. meetingstreetcafe.com. BL $-$$ WURST KITCHEN AT CHEZ PASCAL Come have lunch or dinner at the Wurst Kitchen, a small open kitchen located in
Ives
Outside Providence LJ’S BBQ LJ’s features ribs, pork, chicken and beef cooked low and slow in their customized pit, made with recipes from co-owner Bernie Watson’s grandmother, Miss Leola Jean. It’s great food at a great value. 727 East Avenue, Pawtucket; 3055255. ljsbbq.com BrLD $-$$
B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+ Late-night Dining Parking Lot Valet Parking Family Friendly Find a review on eastsidemonthly.com
You’re So Sweet
Reserve your Valentine’s table early Mile & A Quarter Sophisticated dining on the riverfront www.mileandaquarterri.com
Tues-Thurs 4pm-10pm Fri-Sat 4pm-1am • Sun 1pm-9pm Closed Mon “Appy Hour” Weekdays 4-6pm
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East Side Monthly February 2014
At School Today by Jill Davidson
Principal Spotlight An interview with Vartan Gregorian’s Susan Stambler
LIFE COACH
adolescents & young adults
Harry Fish MA, BCC 80 Calendars, LLC 401-465-5491 80calendars.com
Photography: Amy Amerantes
Juggling Instructor During the past few months, it’s been my honor and pleasure to interview the principals of the East Side’s public schools and share their stories with East Side Monthly readers. This month, I spent time with Susan Stambler, principal of Vartan Gregorian Elementary School at Fox Point, which is located on Wickenden Street and serves 434 pre-kindergarten through fifth grade students. A New York native, Ms. Stambler started her career as a teacher and school administrator on Long Island. She moved to Rhode Island to work as a principal in the Coventry public schools for eight years. She served as a principal in the New London (CT) public schools, and then as the director of school-aged services at Providence education nonprofit Meeting Street. In August 2012, Ms. Stambler joined the Gregorian school community, motivated by a desire to return to working as an elementary school principal and a proactive choice to participate in the Providence Public Schools. “I missed the kids,” Ms. Stambler recalls as she describes why she moved from the nonprofit world. “For me, the most exciting part of this job is being able to see the progress that individual students make. I also wanted to work in this district. Providence schools can have a bad reputation, but that is not the reality. There is a tremendous amount to offer in this district and I wanted to be part of the change that’s happening.” Ms. Stambler arrived at Gregorian after a period of principal turnovers that felt destabilizing to many students, staff members and parents. Despite this, Ms. Stambler perceived the school to be a strong community, bolstered by longstanding and committed family and community engagement. “I know it’s a cliché,” Ms. Stambler observed, “but it really does take a village to raise a child. Schools that are most successful are like this one, those that engage stakeholders for the benefit of all students.” In addition to a collaborative Parent-Teacher organization and strong neighborhood roots, Gregorian benefits from
Introducing
the hot shave…
And other fine services
a gentleman’s barber shop Susan Stambler in the classroom at Vartan Gregorian
ongoing community partnerships with a wide range of organizations, chief among them Brown University, which has had a special relationship with the school since it was renamed in 1997 in honor of Vartan Gregorian, Brown’s 16th president. As an example of Brown’s commitment to the school, for over two decades, Brown’s athletic teams have been paired with classrooms; athletes spend time with the students, providing academic and personal support. “For some kids, that contact with a Brown football player might be a memorable event that will stay with them even after they leave elementary school. Providing a holistic experience makes this school a special place,” Ms. Stambler says. “We are always looking for leverage points to decrease gaps in achievement and educate the whole person, and there is clearly a model at this school where parent and community engagement is showing good results.” Ms. Stambler identifies Gregorian’s teachers and staff members as its most valuable asset, saying, “We have committed teachers who have been here for a long time. To have such a dedicated, skilled staff without a lot of turnover is a tremendous gift, and they are the reason why the school has been such a great place for our students.” Though it is no longer in force, Gregorian was governed for a number of years by site-based management, which provides significant planning and
leadership opportunities to staff members. The resulting skills and habits of mind among Gregorian’s staff members have persisted since the district’s shift away from site-based management, and in Ms. Stambler, they found a principal eager to continue collaborative leadership. Stambler’s sense of collaboration extends beyond the walls of her school; she believes that it would be useful to establish critical friends groups among teachers and school leaders from the East Side’s schools or even citywide. Evident throughout our conversation was Ms. Stambler’s vision of elementary school as a powerful experience for most young people. “I want them to come away feeling like they’re confident as people and as learners,” she says. “If we’re successful, we’ve helped them develop an interest in being lifelong learners who know that sometimes things are hard, but that they can reach goals with effort. A good educational experience makes kids feel good about who they are.” Vartan Gregorian Elementary School at Fox Point will be offering tours for prospective families with students who will be entering kindergarten; call the school at 456-9377 for more information. Jill Davidson can be reached at whathappenedatschool@gmail.com or her blog, providenceschools. blogspot.com
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February 2014 East Side Monthly
33
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East Side Monthly February 2014
– especially when it comes to Social Security. But you have to be a bit patient. Most people want to maximize the amount of money they receive from Social Security. For some people, with shortened life expectancies or poor health, that can mean claiming reduced benefits as early as age 62. For others, with expected longevity and financial resources, waiting until the latest eligible age of 70 can provide the highest monthly benefit. However there is one claiming strategy – available only to married couples – that can provide for an even greater benefit than individuals can receive alone. Informally it is known as the “Claim Now, Claim More Later” strategy. Formally it is titled “Filing a Restricted Spousal Claim.” In one study published in the Journal of Financial Planning, 83% of couples sampled could benefit from this strategy. Here is how the strategy works: one spouse/partner in a marriage files a restricted spousal claim at full retirement age for half of the other spouse’s benefit. At a later date (up to age 70), the original spouse switches to his own, higher benefit. The strategy can produce a double gain. If the original spouse had simply waited to take his/her own benefit at age 70, he would have missed out, from ages 66 to 70, on benefits derived from the partner’s earning’s record. In addition, by delaying his benefit beyond full retirement age, the original spouse can see his benefit grow by 8% a year until age 70. A quick example: Jane, age 66, has a calculated benefit of $2,000 a month. Her spouse, Fran, also 66, is eligible for $2,400 a month. Jane is retired and takes her benefit at 66. Fran is now eligible to file a restricted spousal claim for $1,000 (half of Jane’s). If Fran waits until age 70 to
switch to his own benefit, Fran receives, exclusive of any additional potential earning’s credits, approximately $3,168, a 32% increase. This strategy tends to work best with two working spouses, where the couples’ earnings records are fairly equal. In order to maximize the survivor’s benefit, the higher wage earner makes a claim on the spouse’s benefit and later takes his/ her own, regardless of the gender. There are a few caveats: * You must be married (the Social Security Administration has agreed to recognize same-sex marriages for purposes of determining benefits). * You can’t file a restricted benefit on your spouse until he/she files for benefits or claims and suspends benefits. * You can’t file a restricted claim until after you reach full retirement age. * Both spouses can’t file for a restricted benefit.
This strategy currently costs the Social Security Administration, by some estimates, close to $10 billion annually. With Social Security already in trouble financially, the restricted benefit opportunity could be placed on the agenda for entitlement reform. But for now, “Claim Now, Claim More Later” allows you to build up a greater benefit in the future while not foregoing income entirely in the present. Deciding how to take Social Security benefits is a big decision. If you can be patient until full retirement age, you may be able to use your marital status to increase the total amount of benefits you receive. Betsey Purinton, CFP® is Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer at StrategicPoint Investment Advisors. You can e-mail her at bpurinton@strategicpoint.com.
LD_East Side Monthly Feb-2014_Layout 1 1/2/14 1:35 PM Page 1
east side - Upper Cole This brick colonial offers a rich heritage, inviting rooms and masterful architecture. Features formal dining room with built-ins, spacious kitchen, fine finishes, 6 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2 car garage. $949,000 401-274-1644
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East Side Monthly February 2014
Assisted Living . Short-Term Rehabilitation . Long-Term Care Skilled Nursing . Memory Care . Respite . Fitness Center (RI Relay 711)
Art by Sarah Bertness
An Artistic Celebration During Brown’s 250th anniversary, alumni artists steal the show
Photo: courtesy of Paul Ramirez Jonas
This spring marks 250
years since Brown University’s founding, and in honor of the semiquincentennail, the school’s David Winton Bell Gallery and the Department of Visual Art have collaborated to bring six distinguished alumni back for a series of solo exhibitions celebrating their College Hills roots and notable contributions to the arts. The gallery’s first major alumni show will be divided into two installments, with the first opening on February 15 and featuring work by Dawn Clements (graduated 1986), Paul Ramirez Jonas (graduated 1987) and Kerry Tribe (graduated 1997). “We wanted each exhibition to have a diversity of media,” says gallery curator Alexis Lowry Murray on the artist grouping, emphasizing that the show is curated around the totality of all six artists. Regardless of their choice of mediums, Murray notes that all of the alums are “conceptually rigorous in their work,” a trait no doubt linked to their time on campus in the Creative Capitol. Dawn Clements’ sumi ink and ballpoint penned interiors are exquisite in their melodrama and intricacies. Often starting small and growing a work to fill an entire wall or gallery, Clements builds her expansive panoramas by quilting together paper panels, creating a kaleidoscopic collage of space that wrinkles and overlaps. “As I move between the mundane empirical spaces of my apartment and studio, and the glamorous fictions of movies, apparently seamless environments are disturbed through ever-shifting points of view,” says Clements of the process and effect. Her work often revisits Hollywood films from the 1940s and 1950s, exploring and embracing the ways in which settings frame the way we understand a story. Crediting an early interest in “how still-life painting could express human presence through absence,” Clements uninhabited spaces speak volumes, giving all new meaning to the idea of if these walls could talk. Clements has kept her Providence ties strong, and is currently a painting critic at RISD. Paul Ramirez Jonas may consider himself “merely a reader of texts,” but
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Paul Ramirez Jonas, The Commons, 2011, Cork and pushpins
his work leads the contemporary dialogue on the ways in which people relate to art and public spaces. Finding inspiration in everything from a musical score to a footpath, Jonas interprets these ‘texts’ and translates them into a new medium, ranging from sculpture and video to performance and photography pieces. “In my artworks, what looks like invention is but re-enactment, and what seems to be exploration is but walking in someone else’s footsteps,” says Jonas. One of his works included the Bell Gallery exhibition promises to particularly resonate with the Brown and upper East Side community. In The Commons, Jonas invites viewers to pin notes to a cork replica of the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, a bronze copy of which has stood prominently overlooking Thayer Street from behind Brown’s Sayles Hall since 1908. Both based on the original work of art honoring the Roman Emperor, Jonas’ interactive reinterpretation questions the role of public monument both then and now. Rounding out the first installment is a show of Kerry Tribe’s video explorations of memory and it’s subjectivity connected to science, culture and time. “Memory does something funny to time, which we are accustomed to thinking of as linear and progressive,” says Tribe. “When we remember something, we bring it
back to life.” It is these moments of reliving memories and varied interpretations and disconnects that Tribe aligns, allowing the viewer to experience differing versions of reality woven together in a way that challenges perception. Tribe’s large-scale video installations not only uniquely utilize the medium of film itself, but explores its implications with regard to memory and the mind. Like all effective contemporary artists, Tribe puts a new spotlight on old questions, and does so in a way that is anthropological and engaging. The second installment of Brown University’s 250th Anniversary Alumni Exhibition will feature Sarah Morris, Robert Reynolds and Taryn Simon. The Bell Gallery is also planning a summer show highlighting work of alumni who have chosen to stay and create in Providence. “We recognized that we could do a lot more (alumni exhibitions),” Murray said, on the fruits of the curatorial research for this exhibition and exciting potential for additional upcoming alumni shows. The first installment of Brown University’s 250th Anniversary Alumni Exhibition runs February 15 to March 30 at the David Winton Bell Gallery. Opening hours are Monday – Friday from 11am– 4pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm–4pm. 64 College Street, Providence. 863-2932, www.brown.edu.
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February 2014 East Side Monthly
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East Side Monthly February 2014
| www.nemoves.com
Calendar
edited by Erin Swanson
February music | performance | social happenings | galleries | learn | sports
DON’T MISS THIS MONTH: 10 events at the top of our list
Providence Children’s Film Festival. February 13-23 at various locations in Providence. www.pcffri.org
1
RI Brew Fest. February 1 at the Pawtucket Armory. www.ribrewfest.com
2
Alton Brown. February 21 at Providence Performing Arts Center in Providence. www.ppacri.org
3 Alton Brown brings his touring variety show to PPAC on February 21
MUSIC
13: Andrea Gibson. February 15: Robert Ellis. 270 Broadway. 621-9660, www. columbustheatre.com.
Wednesdays: Free Funk Wednesday. 101 Richmond Street, Providence. 3837133, www.thespotprovidence.com.
ARENA & CLUB AS220 February 1: Songwriters in the Round 10th Anniversary Show. February 13: Bloodpheasant, Harris Hawk and more. February 18: Jonah Tolchin, Dan Blakeslee and Haunt the House. February 19: The Reverie Machine, TWVE and more. February 21: Burlapen, Dr. Jones and the Shiners, Denver Boot and Viking Jesus. 115 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www.as220.org.
FETE MUSIC February 5: Huey Mack. February 6: Lettuce. 103 Dike Street, Providence. 383-1112, www.fetemusic.com.
TWIN RIVER February 1: M-80. February 2: Roger Ceresi. February 7: Felix Brown. February 8: Dezyne. February 14: Kool & the Gang. February 15: Those Guys. February 21: Steve Anthony & Persuasion. February 22: Split Infinity. February 23: Kelly Lennon. February 28: Amish Outlaws. 100 Twin River Road, Lincoln. 723-3200, www.twinriver.com.
CHAN’S FINE ORIENTAL DINING February 1: Debra Mann. February 3: Tommy Castro. February 6: Damon Fowler. February 7: Delta Generators. February 8: Mama’s Rib. February 14: Popa Chubby. February 15: John Hammond. February 21: Rocky Thomas Band. February 22: James Montgomery Band. February 26: Open Mic w/ Lil Cousin. February 28: Love Dogs with special guest Sax Gordo. 267 Main Street, Woonsocket. 765-1900, www.chanseggrollsandjazz.com.
THE MET February 1: The Front Bottoms. February 8: L.O.D. Rafaga. February 11: The Expendables. February 12: Emancipator Ensemble. February 14: Bad Rabbits. February 15: The Black Angels. February 17: Wild Cub. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 729-1005, www.themetri.com.
COLUMBUS THEATRE February 6: Charles Bradley. February
THE SPOT UNDERGROUND Tuesdays: Re-creation Tuesday,
Photo: David Allen
arena & club | classical
LUPO’S HEARTBREAK HOTEL February 1: Yellowcard with What’s Eating Gilbert featuring Chad from New Found Glory. February 7: Umphrey’s McGee. February 14: STS9. February 21: Get the Led Out. 79 Washington Street, Providence. 331-5876, www.lupos.com.
PARK THEATRE February 8: Michael Bolton. February 14: Dr. John. 848 Park Avenue, Cranston. 467-7275, www.parktheatreri.com.
CLASSICAL OPERA PROVIDENCE February 14 & 16: Valentine’s Day Concert. Blithewold Mansion and Gardens. 101 Ferry Road, Bristol. 331-6060, www.operaprovidence.org. PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER February 12: The Midtown Men. 220 Weybosset Street, Providence. 4212787, www.ppacri.org. VETERANS MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM February 22: Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra presents Mozart & Mahler. 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence. 2211467, www.vmari.com.
Providence Bruins vs. St. John’s Icecaps. February 14 at The Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence. www.providencebruins.com
4
2nd Annual Winter Sparkle. February 8 at the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum in Providence. www.jlri.org
5
Annual Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading. February 2 at the RISD Museum in Providence. www.risdmuseum.org
6
Be My Ally. February 14-16 at The Met School in Providence. www.mantonavenueproject.org
7
31st Annual Heritage Ball. February 8 at the Omni Providence Hotel in Providence. www.ribhs.org
8
Amish Outlaws. February 28 at Twin River in Lincoln. www.twinriver.com
9
Mozart & Mahler. February 22 at The Vets in Providence. www.vmari.com
10
February 2014 East Side Monthly
39
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East Side Monthly February 2014
Take 3 days to ignite your confidence so you can live with the passion and power you were born to have. World class teachers. Luxury spa setting. You are worth it.
LifeWork: Power & Confidence March 28th - 30th, 2014 Hotel Viking, Newport, Rhode Island Learn more here: http://www.katesiner.com/power-and-confidence Kate Siner PhD • www.KateSiner.com 401.272.4578 • admin@katesiner.com
Calendar
continued...
PERFORMANCE comedy | dance | theatre COMEDY AS220 First Sunday: The Empire Revue with sketch comedy, improv, music, burlesque and magic. First Saturday: Improv Jones. 95 & 115 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www. as220.org. COMEDY CONNECTION Fridays: Hardcore Comedy. Sundays: Comedy Showcase. February 7-8: Ray Harrington. February 14-15: Derek Furtado. February 21-22: Robert Kelly. February 27: Tracy Morgan. February 28: Bobcat Goldthwait. 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. 438-8383, www.ricomedyconnection.com.
PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER February 8: Theresa Caputo. February 14-16: Man of La Mancha. February 21: Alton Brown. February 25-28: Peter and the Starcatcher. 220 Weybosset Street, Providence. 421-2787, www.ppacri.org. PROVIDENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY February 3-June 9: Mondays. TRPPL PLAY. A drama and writing program for high school students put on by Trinity Repertory Company and the Providence Public Library. 150 Empire Street, Providence. 351-4242, www.trinityrep.com. SMITH CENTER FOR THE ARTS AT ANGELL BLACKFRIARS THEATRE February 7-9 & 14-16: These Shining Lives. One Cunningham Square, Providence. 865-1000. www.providence. edu/theatre.
EVERETT Every Friday: Friday Night Live. 9 Duncan Avenue, Providence. 831-9479, www.everettri.org.
TRINITY REP February 1-28: Intimate Apparel. February 20-28: Oliver! 201 Washington Street, Providence. 351-4242, www. trinityrep.com.
VETERANS MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM February 6: Spank! Harder the Sequel. February 15: John Pinette. 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence. 221-1467, www. vmari.com.
SOCIAL HAPPENINGS
95 EMPIRE BLACK BOX First Saturday: Improv Jones. 95 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www.improvjones.com. DANCE AS220 Mondays: Intermediate/Advanced Modern Dance. Tuesdays: Yobalates. Wednesday: Open Level Modern Dance. Sundays: Beginner and Intermediate Ballet. 95 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www.as220.org. THEATRE GAMM THEATRE February 1-9: The Big Meal. 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 723-4266, www.gammtheatre.org. MANTON AVENUE PROJECT February 14-16: Be My Ally. The Met School, 325 Public Street in Providence. 331-7007, www.mantonavenueproject.org. OCEAN STATE THEATRE COMPANY February 1-16: Laughter on the 23rd Floor. 1245 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick. 921-6800, www.oceanstatetheatre.org.
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expos | fundraisers | seasonal FESTIVALS JUNIOR LEAGUE OF RHODE ISLAND 2nd Annual Winter Sparkle. Fundraiser with food, wine and spirits tasting. Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum. 199 Hope Street, Providence. www.jlri.org. RHODE ISLAND BLACK HERITAGE SOCIETY February 8: 31st Annual Heritage Ball. Omni Providence Hotel. One West Exchange Street, Providence. 421-0606, www.ribhs.org. RHODE ISLAND CONVENTION CENTER February 1-2: 21st Annual Providence Boat Show. February 6-9: Northeast International Auto Show. February 20-23: Rhode Island Spring Flower & Garden Show. 1 Sabin Street, Providence. 458-6000, www.riconvention.com. FOR FOODIES BOTTLES Thursdays: Spirit Tastings. Fridays: Beer Tasting. Saturdays: Wine Tasting. 141 Pitman Street, Providence. 372-2030, www.bottlesfinewine.com.
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February 2014 East Side Monthly
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The Best Noodle Soup in Town
Calendar
continued...
ENO Fridays and Saturdays: Wine Tasting. 225 Westminster Street, Providence. 521-2000, www.enofinewines.com.
50 Ann Mary Street, Pawtucket (off N. Main) In former Shaw’s Plaza 365-6278 • phohorns.com Mon-Thur 11am-10pm • Fri-Sat 11am-11pm Sun 11am-9pm
(temporarily stopping delivery service)
Small Group Mat Classes! ■
Fully equipped Pilates studio: private & group sessions
■
Offering mat classes
■
Power Pilates teacher training center
■
Register Online
w: providencepilatescenter.com | e: provpilates@aol.com
t: 401-480-0193 | 5 Lincoln Avenue, Providence
Certified Public Accountants & Business Consultants
Financial & Estate Planning Business Succession Planning Wealth Preservation Litigation Support
27 Dryden Lane, Providence | 273-1800 yksmcpa.com | Visit our Website for Free Newsletters
(401) 351-4242 • trinityrep.com 201 Washington St. • Providence, RI
Lionel Bart
directed & choreographed by Richard & Sharon Jenkins Feb. 20 – march 30
supporting sponsor
with support from
season sponsors
trinity repertory company THE STATE THEATER OF RHODE ISLAND
42
East Side Monthly February 2014
kIDS + FAMILy ARTISTS EXCHANGE Thursdays: Art Guild for high school students. 82 Rolfe Square, Cranston. 490-9475, www.artists-exchange.org.
OTHER THE INSTITUTE FOR THE STUDY & PRACTICE OF NONVIOLENCE First Friday of Every Month: Open Mic Spoken Word Poetry. 265 Oxford Street, Providence. 785-2320, www. nonviolenceinstitute.org. TRINITY BREWHOUSE Tuesdays: Stump! Trivia. 186 Fountain Street, Providence. 453-2337, www.stumptrivia.com.
BROWN UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE Every Saturday: Children’s Story Time. 244 Thayer Street, Providence. 8633168, bookstore.brown.edu.
WILDFLOUR Last Sunday of the month: Free tarot card readings. 4-6pm. 727 East Avenue, Pawtucket. 475-4718, www. wildflourveganbakerycafe.com.
KENNEDY PLAZA Daily: Ice Skating. Bank of America City Center, 2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence. 331-5544, www.kennedyplaza.org.
CHAZAN GALLERY February 7-27: Jane Masters and Jacqueline Ott. 228 Angell Street, Providence. 421-9230. www.chazangallery.org. DAVID WINTON BELL GALLERY February 15-28: Brown University 250th Anniversary Alumni Exhibition Part 1: Dawn Clements, Paul Ramirez Jonas, Kerry Tribe. 64 College Street, Providence. 863-2932, www.brown. edu/campus-life/arts/bell-gallery.
book, music & lyrics by
RISD MUSEUM OF ART February 1-28: Andy Warhol’s Photographs. February 2: Annual Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading. 224 Benefit Street, Providence. 4546500, www.risdmuseum.org.
AUDUBON SOCIETY February 18: The Unhuggables. February 18: Amazing Amphibians. February 19: Fred’s TV. February 19: Colonial Candlemaking. February 20: Owls of New England. February 21: Totally Turtles. February 21: Big Hawk, Little Hawk. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge. 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield. 949-5454, www.asri.org.
GALLERIES
Call us for a Free Consultation
Oliver!
RHODE ISLAND BLACK HERITAGE SOCIETY February 9: Sunday Jazz Brunch. Omni Providence Hotel. One West Exchange Street, Providence. 4210606, www.ribhs.org. RHODE ISLAND BREW FEST February 1: Second Annual Rhode Island Brew Fest. The Pawtucket Armory, 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 318-2991, www.ribrewfest.com.
Call or Email for Schedule
Auditing, Accounting & Tax Services Forensic Examinations Business Valuations
FARM FRESH RHODE ISLAND Wednesdays and Saturdays: Wintertime Farmers’ Market. Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. www.farmfreshri.org.
or Thing in the Dodge House Gallery. 11 Thomas Street, Providence. 3311114, www.providenceartclub.org.
PROVIDENCE ART CLUB February 1-14: Gail Armstrong, Craig Masten & Susan Shaw: Something to Remind You in the Maxwell Mays Gallery. February 1-14: Charlotte Breed Handy & Bay McClure: Person Place
PROVIDENCE CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL February 13-23: At RISD Auditorium, Metcalf Auditorium and Cable Car Cinema. www.pcffri.org. PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER February 25-28: Peter and the Starcatcher. 220 Weybosset Street, Providence. 421-2787, www.ppacri.org. PROVIDENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY February 3-June 9: Mondays. TRPPL PLAY. A drama and writing program for high school students put on by Trinity Repertory Company and the Providence Public Library. 150 Empire Street, Providence. 351-4242, www.trinityrep.com. ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO February 15: Rock-a-Baby. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 785-3510, www.rwpzoo.org.
Calendar
continued...
LEARN discussion | instruction | tour AS220 February 1: Computer Basics – Intro to the Mac. February 11: Introduction to Adobe Illustrator CS6. February 20: Intro to Bookbinding. 115 Empire Street, Providence. 831-9327, www. as220.org. AUDUBON SOCIETY February 18: The Unhuggables. February 18: Amazing Amphibians. February 19: Fred’s TV. February 19: Colonial Candlemaking. February 20: Owls of New England. February 21: Totally Turtles. February 21: Big Hawk, Little Hawk. Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge. 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield. 949-5454, www.asri.org. INTERNATIONAL HOUSE Fridays: Knitting Instruction. Fridays: Tai Chi Class. Fridays: Pranayama Yoga Class. 8 Stimson Avenue, Providence. 421-7181, www.internationalhouseofri.org. LADD OBSERVATORY Tuesdays: Telescope Observing Night. 210 Doyle Avenue, Providence. 863-2323, www.brown.edu/ Departments/Physics/Ladd/. PROVIDENCE ATHENAEUM Fridays: Drop in from 5-7pm for the free weekly Salon Series. 251 Benefit Street, Providence. 421-6970, www. providenceathenaeum.org. PROVIDENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY Mondays: Knitting Circle. Mondays: A Spanish Tea. Rochambeau Library, 708 Hope Street, Providence. 2723780, www.provcomlib.org. SARAH DOYLE WOMEN’S CENTER Mondays: Girls Night Out. Snacks and informal discussions for selfidentified queer women. 26 Benevolent Street, Providence. events. brown.edu. THE STEEL YARD February 5: Free tour. 27 Sims Avenue, Providence. 273-7101, www. thesteelyard.org. WATSON INSTITUTE February 26: David Kertzer – The Pope and Mussolini. A book panel. 111 Thayer Street, Providence. 8632809, www.watson.brown.edu.
SPORTS BROWN MEN’S BASKETBALL February 1: Vs. Columbia. February 14: Vs. Princeton. February 15: Vs. Penn. 235 Lloyd Avenue, Providence. 863-2773, www.brownbears.com. BROWN MEN’S HOCKEY February 1: Vs. Cornell. February 14: Vs. Princeton. February 15: Vs. Quinnipiac. February 28: Vs. Rensselaer. 235 Lloyd Avenue, Providence. 8632773, www.brownbears.com. BROWN WOMEN’S BASKETBALL February 7: Vs. Harvard. February 8: Vs. Dartmouth. February 21: Vs. Columbia. February 22: Vs. Cornell. February 28: Vs. Penn. 235 Lloyd Avenue, Providence. 863-2773, www. brownbears.com. BROWN WOMEN’S HOCKEY February 7: Vs. Rensselaer. February 8: Vs. Union. February 21: Vs. Dartmouth. February 22: Vs. Harvard. 235 Lloyd Avenue, Providence. 8632773, www.brownbears.com. DUNKIN DONUTS CENTER February 1: 2014 Nuclear Cowboyz Freestyle Motocross Tour. 1 LaSalle Square, Providence. 331-6700, www. dunkindonutscenter.com. PROVIDENCE BRUINS HOCKEY February 9: Vs. Springfield. February 14: Vs. St. John’s. February 16: Vs. Hartford. February 28: Vs. Bridgeport. 1 LaSalle Square, Providence. 273-5000, www.providencebruins. com. PROVIDENCE COLLEGE FRIARS MEN’S BASKETBALL February 4: Vs. St. John’s. February 15: Vs. DePaul. February 18: Vs. Villanova. 1 La Salle Square, Providence. 865-4672, www.friars.com.
It’s never too early to plan ahead Pre-arrangements are a thoughtful and prudent decision that may help to ease your loved one’s anxieties. • Accommodations for all faiths, traditions and wishes. • All-in-one options for calling hours, service and reception. • Newly remodeled throughout
• Reception room • Easy access from I-195 • Ample free parking • Over 125 years of reputation for excellence
PROVIDENCE COLLEGE FRIARS MEN’S HOCKEY February 11: Vs. Connecticut. February 14 & 15: Vs. Notre Dame. February 21: Vs. Massachusetts. Schneider Arena, Huxley Avenue, Providence. 865-4672, www.friars.com. PROVIDENCE COLLEGE FRIARS WOMEN’S HOCKEY February 2: Vs. Vermont. February 8: Vs. Northeastern. February 16: Vs. Boston University. Schneider Arena, Huxley Avenue, Providence. 8654672, www.friars.com.
401.331.4592 • 401.421.9887 230 WATERMAN AVE., WAYLAND SQUARE • PROVIDENCE WWW.MONAHANDRABBLESHERMAN.COM • EMAIL: MKDSFH@AOL.COM
February 2014 East Side Monthly
43
Classifieds
To place your classified ad, please call 732-3100.
(401) 441-7303
ARCHITECT – www.ds-arch.com Residential & commercial. Additions, renovations & new construction. Call Dave: 401-595-7070. dave@ds-arch.com
AUDIO/VIDEO HELP If you need some help with your TV, home theater or stereo, call me at 401-383-4102. Jon Bell, Simply Sight & Sound. Reasonable rates. 25 years of experience.
Chair Caning
632-0073
CEILING REPAIRS Repairing water damaged, cracked, peeling ceilings & walls. Located on the East Side. Over 100 satisfied local customers. Malin Painting, RI Reg. #19226. Call 226-8332. C.M. HOUSE CLEANING Professional, reliable, experienced. Excellent local references. Free estimates. Call Marilyn at 497-8770. CEILING WORK, DRYWALL Plaster (hang, tape & paint). Water damage repair. All phases of carpentry. Reg. #24022. Fully insured. Steven, E. Prov., 401-641-2452.
Photo Organizer Organizing photos. Scanning photos, old albums, slides, negatives, and movies. Creating photo books, slide shows. Storage solutions for your photo collection. www.savingphotomemories.com memories.kmccann@gmail.com
401-601-0141
Garages & Attics Cleaned Unwanteds Removed Small Demolitions - Garages, Sheds, etc. Appliances & Lawn Mowers â?–Motors â?–Machines â?–Batteries â?–Etc.
Cell 401-742-7258 Reg. #4614
ELECTRICAL SERVICES All types. Energy efficient & security lighting & new circuits. Master licenses: RI #A3338, MA #16083A. Insured. Call Larry 529-2087.
DOG WALKER/PET SITTER Trained to administer medications. Reliable, bonded, references available. Home visits. Call Susan 527-3914. Loves animals.
EAST SIDE HANDYMAN 34 years. Repairs, upgrades & renovations. References. Insured. Reg. #3052. Call 524-6421.
DOROTHY’S CLEANING We clean your home as our own! References & free estimates. Call 401274-7871 or 401-524-7453.
ELDER CARE AVAILABLE Very kind, patient, mature woman seeks position with elderly person. Intelligent, cheerful, reliable, with 20 years experience, including several long-term positions. Impeccable references. Please call 781-3392 or 497-3392.
SNOW PLOWING Residential/Commercial Free Estimates FIREWOOD: Seasoned Hardwood, Cut & Split, $225/cord.
Vinny’s Landscaping
& BOBCAT SERVICES
497-1461 â—? 231-1851
majorrlm@earthlink.net
JOBS BY JIM
CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS and more. In-home consultation. 30 years experience. 401-949-1587.
CHRIS’ LAMP REPAIR We Make House Calls!!! âœŻ Repairing all types of Lamps âœŻ Vintage Lighting Specialist âœŻ Chandelier Repairs âœŻ Serving the East Side for over 15 years âœŻ Fully Insured
(401) 831-8693 www.chrislamprepair.com
EXPERIENCED SENIOR CARE Dependable, trustworthy woman to help you with your loved one. Please call 617-2288. HOUSECLEANER Available Crystal Clean, a quality housecleaning service. We don’t cut corners. Weekly or bi-weekly. We use environmentally friendly products. Bethany 2650960. HOUSE CLEANING Experienced. Local references. Free estimates. Call Lilly, 401-419-2933.
HOUSE CLEANING
If you need a house cleaner who is organized and with good prices & excellent references, call 401-475-3283
Classifieds
FEMALE TO SHARE East Side apartment. $575/mo. includes all. Call 978-578-9101 or 239-269-1027. I BUY BOOKS Old, used and almost new. Also buying photography, art, etc. Call 401421-2628. jcvp@cox.net MALIN PAINTING Most ceiling & wall repairs, wallpaper removal, oil-based and latex finishes, staining, varnishing. Fully insured, many local references. Safe, secure, fast service. Call 226-8332. Reg. #19226. PERSONAL ASSISTANT AVAILABLE Only when you need one. Too busy to pickup the dry cleaning, shop, wait for a delivery, take the dog to the groomer? I can run your errands for you. Hire for a day or by the hour. References. Call 270-1120.
To place your classified ad, please call 732-3100.
MASTER ELECTRICIAN Install, service, repair. Expert troubleshooting. Free detailed computerized estimate. Deal direct with owner. Lic. #AC 004110 & insured. Small jobs done promptly. All work guaranteed. Save $$$. Family owned & operated. Local resident. Calls returned immediately. 401-258-4793, John.
Harold Greco, Jr. Plaster Perfection ★ ★ Insurance Estimates ★ Mold Inspections
Historic Restorations
738-0369 ★ ★
★
PERFECT PAINTING High quality work. References. 30 years experience. Reg. #17730. Call Ken at 516-1438 or 346-6162.
classified advertising Order fOrm
name:
Landscape Construction Parking Lot Cleaning
______________________________________
phone:
26 Years Experience
MG Landscaping 743-6015 â?Š 831-5109
_____________________________________
address:
MEDINA Painting & Remodeling Co., Inc. For ALL Your Painting & Carpentry Needs
We Specialize in Water Problems Roofs âœŻGutters âœŻCement Resurfacing of Basement Walls Certified Lead Renovated LRM #0514
âœŻ
Call Al Medina
PROPERTY MANAGER Available. On call 24/7. Rent collection. Rentals, evictions, maintenance. Call 421-0092.
r $2.00 additional — Boxed Ad
Spring & Fall Cleanups
SUPERB HOUSEPAINTING High end workmanship. Small jobs a specialty. Call Ron 751-3242. Reg. #18128.
USED MUSIC WANTED! Round Again Records needs your used CDs and records. Cash paid. Call 351-6292.
r $2.50 each additional line (includes headline)
Bushes Trimmed â?Š Tree Removal Pine Bark Mulch
â?Š
PAWS-N-CLAWS, LLC Dog walking/pet sitting. Professional, reliable pet care. Insured & bonded. Call 499-7714 or www.pawsnclawsri.com
r 4 lines /$10
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
Handyman
PARKING/STORAGE Congdon St., $125 covered carport. Benefit St. (north end), $115/mo. Call Roger, 339-4068. rogernc@mac.com
KIND CARE ~ SENIORS Appointments, errands, shopping, cleaning & maint. Refs. Safety bars installed. Reg #3052. 559-0848.
401.438.8771
city:
___________________________________
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state:
____
zip:
_________
amount enclosed: __________________________ Visa/mastercard #: _________________________
Please complete form and fax to 732-3110 or phone in your ad to sue at 732-3100 or email sueH@rhodybeat.com mail Payment in full tO: East Side Monthly, c/o Beacon Communications Classifieds, 1944 Warwick Ave. Warwick, RI 02889
East of Elmgrove
by Elizabeth Rau | illustration by Eloise Narrigan
Hidden Treasures Finding family in found history His name was Alf Mads Andreas Thorvald Sorensen, but everyone called him Alfie. I never met him, but I know a lot about him. He was my husband’s great uncle, a hardy Norwegian who tilled the earth and ate Gjetost cheese with crispbread during the holidays. He made an entrance eight years ago when I was sorting through my mother-in-law’s things. She had died and left behind a house filled with stuff, from rose-patterned teacups to old Christmas ornaments. Carol never threw anything out. When she was alive she rarely talked about her possessions, but I see now that she treasured them and probably looked at them often. They all had a history – her brother’s red agate cigarette holder, her father’s porcelain shaving bowl, her mother’s embroidery bag with a ball of thread still attached to the handkerchief she was stitching just before she died. Alfie’s box was in the eaves. I remember dragging it out from a cobwebbed corner and opening it as I sat on the dark wood floor. Here were the contents of a man’s life, neatly packed away in a cardboard box and, in some cases, even labeled. “Alfie’s letters.’’ Alfie’s war photos.’’ “Alfie’s papers.’’ Looking through a man’s past takes patience, so I sat there all day on the third floor of Carol’s ancient house and pieced together a life that took me from Alfie’s boyhood days in Providence to the battlefields of France to the hospital bed where he died. He was born December 8, 1893, the child of Thorvald Fredrik Sorensen and Emilie Jorgensen, who came to the United States from Norway in 1876 in search of the proverbial better life. The Sorensens and their seven children, including Alfie, settled in a clapboard house in Providence. I know this because I found the metal nameplate that Alfie nailed to his door for callers and the postman. “Alf. Th. Sorensen, 39 Lisbon Street,’’ it said in fanciful cursive. I opened a green-clothed photo album. There he was as a boy sitting next to his mother on the steps of their front porch, a medal pinned to his 46
East Side Monthly February 2014
Sunday jacket. Did he win a spelling bee? His hair was cut short enough to show off a cowlick, and he had a pleasant smile. He seemed like a happy kid. Everything in the photos spoke of nature – a picnic in the side yard, a blossoming dogwood, the sun shining through the lace curtains and bathing the front parlor with light. Life seemed simpler back then; small gestures brought great joy. Pruning the hydrangeas, for instance, or petting the fluffy white cat. After high school, Alfie worked as a machinist at Gorham, one of the largest makers of silverware in the United States at the time. His life would soon change. On his 24th birthday, he enlisted in World War I and began a great adventure – or so he thought. These are the facts: He served from 1917 to 1919 in France with the 19th Co., 2nd Regiment of the Air Service Mechanics. He worked on aircraft. He fought in the Champagne-Marne Defensive, the St. Mihiel Offensive and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. He was entitled to wear two gold chevrons. But there was so much more. I found a pocket watch that he kept with him throughout the war. His army tag was attached to it, so he could be identified if he was killed in combat.
Imprinted on the watch were his initials: ATS. There was a miniature painting of a sailboat on a lake in the mountains. The artist’s signature was on back: Hand-painted by “Pvt. Blair Cleveland in Nettancourt, France.’’ There were French postcards and a program from the The Folies-Bergère with a fetching Miss Shirley Kellogg on the cover. There were Alfie’s World War I buttons, 15 in all and linked together with red string. I counted 169 letters. They were censored, so little military information was revealed. But they were poignant in their simplicity. Artillery “rained down,’’ but he told his “folks’’ not to worry. His contingent camped in the woods to hide from air raids. He wrote of returning home to “Little Rhody in America – God’s country.’’ His scrapbook was filled with war photos. The “muddy trenches’’ looked menacing. After he was discharged, Alfie returned to Providence. He lived again with his parents on Lisbon Street and then moved to a small farm in Smithfield to live with his sister (my husband’s grandmother). But he was never the same. Back then, they called it shell-shock. Today, it’s
known as post-traumatic stress disorder. For one, Alfie lost his hearing during the war from the bombs and shelling. He was also remote; he had a faraway look in his eyes as an older man. Children played quietly when Alfie was in the room. Something about his nerves. A lifelong bachelor, he tended to his corn field and vegetable garden as he withdrew into that valley of lonesomeness. On February 4, 1954, he died of colon cancer at the Veterans Administration Hospital, across the street from where he grew up. A condolence letter from the hospital’s medical director was still in its envelope. “I wish to offer my deepest sympathy to you,’’ wrote Dr. William J. Sullivan. “May you find consolation in the knowledge that he served his country and died honored and respected by all of us.’’ Things from the past clutter our houses and turn yellow on the long march of time. Why do we keep them? It’s so hard to let go. Maybe it was love that inspired Alfie’s mother to pack a box a century ago. I’m grateful that she did. Everyone deserves to be known. Elizabeth Rau can be reached at erau1@verizon.net
CHAnge yOur FOr sAle sign tO SOLD ICE
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19 CLARENDON AVENUE Adorable 3 bed 1.5 bed colonial located on sought after street. Wonderful sunlight, open granite kitchen/den looking out to lovely deck surrounded by a fenced backyard. Beautiful wood floors through out. 3 zones gas heat, fireplace and detached garage. $415,000 Aleen Weiss
W NE
121 Butler Avenue Perfect for investors! Great rental history with this 3 unit multi-family home right on the bus line a walking distance to all conveniences. Recently updated with new fire code alarm system and plenty of off-street parking. $299,000 Aleen Weiss
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1 RHODE ISLAND Stunning renovation of mid 19th(c) Italianate style.Thoroughly updated with charm and warmth. 5 beds, 3 baths, amazing kitchen. New windows, newer mechanicals and roof. 3 car garage, original details with modern flair. Move in condition. Truly spectacular! $575,000 Aleen Weiss
ICE
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49 MEDWAY STREET Bright Victorian in busy Wayland Square-great opportunity to have your office in your home (zoned RP). Lots of light with original details, hardwoods. Come see the potential $339,900 Claire Sennott and Gail Jenard
LD
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125 Butler Avenue Spacious legal 3 family building close to all conveniences. Investors take notice! Recently updated with new fire code alarm system, plenty of parking and very nice large units drawing tops rents. $320,000 Aleen Weiss
169 CONGDON STREET Stunning (c1854 ) Mansard Victorian located on the sought after college hill. Tastefully restored, staying with the charm of days gone by. State of the art kitchen, 6 beds, 2.5baths, wide plank floors & fenced yard. Taxes do not reflect homestead. $534,900 Aleen Weiss
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84-86 EIGHTH STREET Fully rented 3 unit in great location close to Miriam Hospital and walking distance to Hope Street shops and restaurants. 2nd and 3rd floors are renovateed w/ new kitchen and baths plus gleaming hardwoods and newer heating systems. Short sale approved. $275,000 Karen Miller
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22 LINDA STREET Stunning 13 year young oversized cape located in sought after Lonsdale. Ready to move in! 3 beds, master on first, 2 full 2 half baths. Generous rooms, skylights, above ground pool in park like setting. Fenced yard, beautiful deck off kitchen, full basement. $398,500 Aleen Weiss
Assisting Buyers, sellers And renters Aleen WeissH Jon WeissHF Howard Weiss H Karen Miller Claire Sennott Lauren Sickel Gail Jenard HAlso licensed in MA
FLicensed RI Environmental Lead Inspector 0065
785 Hope Street, providence, ri • 401-272-6161 • SpitzweiSS.com
February 2014 East Side Monthly
47
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES LTD.
PARTICIPATED
IN THE
223 EAST SIDE
SALE
AND
OF
OAK HILL
PROPERTIES DURING 2013. (Subject to errors or omissions)
EAST SIDE 14 Alfred Stone Rd. 5 Angell Court 94 Angell St. 612 Angell St., Unit 2 546 Angell St., Unit 3B 2 Angell St., Unit 4 546 Angell St., Unit 6B 163 Arlington Ave, Unit 2 9 Arlington Ave. 57 Arnold St. 64 Arnold St. 25 Arnold St., Unit 2 6 Barnes St. 20 Barnes St., Unit 2 118 Benefit St. 43 Benefit St. 93 Benefit St. 261 Benefit St., Unit 1 81 Benefit St., Unit 1 389 Benefit St., Unit 2 395 Benefit St., Unit 4 7 Benefit St., Unit 4 389 Benefit St., Unit 7 147 Benefit St., Unit B 14 Benefit St., Unit G 130 Benevolent St. 248 Blackstone Blvd. 330 Blackstone Blvd. 436 Blackstone Blvd. 30 Blackstone Blvd., Unit 202 30 Blackstone Blvd., Unit 203 158 Bowen St. 96 Bowen St., Unit 3 18 Braman St., Unit 1 262 Brown St., Unit 1 31 Burlington St. 260 Butler Ave. 145 Butler Ave., Unit 2 208 Chace Ave. 40-50 Channing Ave. 108 Cole Ave. 237 Cole Ave. 311 Cole Ave. 376 Cole Ave.
377 Cole Ave. 518 Cole Ave. 122 Colonial Rd. 120 Congdon St. 144 Congdon St. 173 Congdon St., Unit 3 173 Congdon St., Unit 4 5 Constitution Hill 10 Cooke St. 10 Creston Way 2 Cushing St. 24 Cushing St. 37 Cushing St. 134 Dexterdale Rd. 33 Doane Ave., Unit 1 17 Dove St. 42 East George St. 54 East George St. 10 East St., Unit 1 55 Edgehill Rd. 80 Edgehill Rd. 163 Eighth St. 204 Eighth St. 215 Eighth St. 20-22 Elgin St. 231 Elmgrove Ave. 278 Elmgrove Ave. 525 Elmgrove Ave. 702 Elmgrove Ave. 95 Elmgrove Ave. 146 Elmgrove Ave., Unit 2 146 Elmgrove Ave., Unit 4 167 Emeline St., Unit 2 33 Everett Ave. 240 Fifth St. 76 Forest St. 132 Fosdyke St. 35 Fosdyke St. 57 Fosdyke St. 60 Fosdyke St. 88 Fosdyke St. 112 Fourth St. 161 Fourth St., Unit 1 174 Freeman Pkwy. 222 Freeman Pkwy.
228 Freeman Pkwy. 163 Governor St. 17 Greaton Dr. 25 Greaton Dr. 4 Greaton Dr. 130 Grotto Ave. 145 Grotto Ave. 76 Grotto Ave., Unit 1 44 Halsey St., Unit 1 126 Hartshorn Rd. 36 Harwich Rd. 193 Hope St. 200 Hope St. 954 Hope St. 7 Irving Ave. 98 Irving Ave., #9 88 Irving Ave., Unit 11 369 Ives St. 227 Ives St., Unit 2 18 James St. 3 Jenckes St. 84 Keene St. 121 Laurel Ave. 25 Laurel Ave. 265 Laurel Ave. 41 Laurel Ave. 187 Laurel Ave., Unit 2 79 Lauriston St. 76 Lincoln Ave. 535 Lloyd Ave. 399 Lloyd Ave., Unit 2 68 Locust St., Unit 8 21 Lorimer Ave. 11 Loring Ave. 71 Loring Ave. 97 Loring Ave. 18 Luzon Ave. 232 Medway St. 145 Meeting St. 32 Methyl St. 20 Miles Ave., Unit 3 125 Morris Ave. 220 Morris Ave. 128 Ninth St. 165 Ninth St.
29 Nisbet St. 101 North Main St., Unit 800 256 Olney St. 332 Olney St. 68 Overhill Rd. 23 Pitman St. 246 Pleasant St. 134 Power St. 100 Pratt St. 2 Pratt St. , Unit A1 148 Pratt St., Unit 2 152 President Ave. 4 President Ave. 52 President Ave., Unit 1 54 President Ave., Unit 2 125 Prospect St. Unit 10 158 Prospect St., 2Nd Flr. 125 Prospect St., Unit 13 167 Prospect St., Unit 2 15 Ray St. 12 Rhode Island Ave. 335 Rochambeau Ave. 202 Rochambeau Ave., Unit 3 31 Sargent Ave. 15 Sheldon St. 84 Sheldon St. 156 Sixth St. 162 Sixth St. 190 Slater Ave. 77 South Angell St., Unit 102 77 South Angell St., Unit 302 36 Stadium Rd. 57 Stimson Ave. 232 Summit Ave. 186 Taber Ave. 310 Taber Ave. 27 Taft Ave. 47 Taft Ave. 71 Taft Ave. 142 Tenth St. 1 Thayer St. 65 Third St. 123 Transit St. 96 Transit St. 47 Transit St., Unit 1 189 University Ave.
203 University Ave. 206 University Ave. 210 University Ave. 208 University Ave., Unit 1 93 University Ave., Unit 2 15 Vassar Ave. 19 Vassar Ave. 40 Wade St. 161 Waterman St. 157 Waterman St. Unit 2 6 Westford Rd. 143 Williams St. 101 Williams St. Unit 101 106 Williams St., Unit 1 207 Williams St., Unit 4 125 Woodbury St. 130 Woodbury St. 17 Woodbury St. 50 Woodbury St.
OAK HILL 23 Alfred Stone Rd. 11 Belmont St. 122 Blaisdell Ave. 86 Blodgett Ave. 12 Boutwell St. 40 Capwell Ave. 57 Capwell Ave. 74 Clyde St. 22 Cooke St. 34 Dryden Ave. 551 East Ave. 641 East Ave. 20 Germania St. 72 Harvard St. 33 Kenilworth Way 19 Lafayette St. 182 Lafayette St. 127 Marbury Ave. 33 Newman Rd. 99 Oak Hill Ave. 741 Pleasant St. 52 Roberta Ave. 51 Sheffield Ave. 58 Wilcox Ave.
“We wish you a healthy and happy New Year!”
140 Wickenden Street Providence, RI 02903 401.274.6740
Rhode Island’s Real Estate Company®
ResidentialProperties.com