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NEW LIST 64 SARGENT AVENUE Location! Generous 3 bed updated 1.5 bath colonial home, beautifully maintained, hardwoods, eat in kitchen, fireplace den, office/play room, central air, 200 amps, finished basement, fenced backyard, two car garage. walk everywhere, south facing! $470,000 Aleen weiss

NEW PRICE 49 COWESETT ROAD, WARWICK Announcing debut of this totally “renewed” center Hall colonial: 5 Br, 2 new Baths, new kitchen and dining room, heated porch, patio, new septic, new vinyl siding & windows, park like grounds. $349,000 Gail Jenard

marching bands from all over the us and beyond join community activists this month for Pronk

This Month 25 | The FuTure oF CulTural Tourism Raymond Two Hawks Watson shares his vision for showcasing Rhode Island’s diversity

PENDING 13 fRIENDSHIP STREET, NORTH PROVIDENCE cute as a button! move right in! pottery Barn chic, new kitchen, updated plumbing, new hot water heater, new landscaping, relaxing back yard with deck, central air, gas heat, hardwoods, newer windows.. adorable!! $155,500 Aleen weiss

PENDING 63 PITMAN STREET #2 Bright 2nd floor condo in well established association. Hardwood, large rooms, laundry in unit, off-street parking. All within walking distance to Brown, wayland, shopping and parks. All at a great affordable price for east Side living. $139,000 Karen miller

29 | Bigger Than a Parade Pronk brings brass bands and social change to the East Side 34 | BeauTymaker and The BeasT Be afraid… be very afraid of our annual Halloween short story

PENDING 11 WEBSTER STREET, LINCOLN Adorable, cozy home. Move in condition. 4 beds, 1st floor bedrooms w/ two bedrooms upstairs. Updated kitchen, baths, deck and large fenced yard. Large basement w/ rough plumbing. newer windows/roof. possible short sale. easy show. $178,000 Aleen weiss

Every Month 4 | Editorial

PENDING 386 BENEfIT STREET Unbelievably gorgeous 1st floor, 2 bed 2 full marble bath condo, beautiful details throughout, gourmet kitchen with cherry cabinets, granite and stainless, inlay wood entry foyer, detailed wood fireplace, 2 car parking. $345,000 Aleen weiss

Community The Cable Car celebrates 40 years of independent cinema 11 | News 15 | In the Know 17 | Community News

Close to Home

Photo courtesy of Small Frye Photogrpahy

Looking at the pros and cons of charter schools 39 | Home of the Month 40 | Education 43 | East of Elmgrove

PENDING

SOLD

On the Town

80 HAMLIN STREET well maintined 4Br cottage on quiet street, gleaming hardwoods, new windows, roof and siding. detached garage w/ new door and opener. washer/dryer plus lovely front porch and backyard. move on in! $165,000 Karen miller

Meet the man who makes those giant cookies at Meeting Street Cafe 47 | Flavor of the Month 48 | On the Menu 51 | Rhody Bites 57 | Calendar

Assisting Buyers, sellers & renters

The East Sider 66 | Donovan Loucks traces Lovecraft’s footsteps

On the Cover: Photo by Mike Braca

Raymond Two Hawks Watson.

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Aleen WeissH Karen MillerH

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October 2016 East Side Monthly

Editorial

EST 1975

East Side

Elected Officials and Public Boards Don’t Mix Kudos to the City Council on their hiring of former Attorney General Jeff Pine to do an extensive overview of the current Board of Licenses. Their motivation was in large part a response to several of the board’s recent decisions over violence that erupted in Providence clubs in which their punishment amounted to little more than a modest slap on the wrist. Among his most pointed suggestions: the removal of elected officials from boards of this type that are supposed to have the public’s safety and lifestyle concerns as their primary mission. He also cited other issues, including the informality of its meeting location, the lack of follow through on its fine collections, its lack

of clear penalty guidelines and its often disorganized nature stemming in part from the fact that those charged with serious violations are not required to attend a pre-hearing meeting with staff. Lest we think this is an issue that affects other parts of the city and not us, this is not the case. One only has to look back to our not too distant past in regards to Thayer Street. The now incarcerated Gordon Fox served as vice chairman on the Licensing Board while also representing occasional clients looking for variances at their establishment. And though he often recused himself from voting, it is naïve to ignore the impact of his involvement on the

decision making process. Juan Pichardo, the state senator from South Providence, is the current head of the Licensing Board who was specifically cited in the Pine report as an inappropriate appointment. There was perhaps some poetic justice, in September’s primary election, as the long-serving senator lost his bid for reelection, undoubtedly in part by voters who felt he did not seem to have the best interests of his community at heart in terms of the crime issue. We would like to add our voice to those clamoring for the implementation of Mr. Pine’s suggestions. Here’s hoping both the city council, which initiated the report, and the mayor move on this quickly.

Letters From the Athenaeum The Providence Athenaeum has inspired filmmakers, dramatists and most recently author Ann Hood, whose novel The Book That Matters Most, features characters who meet at an Athenaeum book club. We were thrilled to be mentioned in East Side Monthly’s article about Ann Hood, which lamented that, “at present, no book clubs meet at the Providence Athenaeum.” Ah, but they do! The Athenaeum currently offers seven reading groups, with subjects ranging from James Joyce to the Women of Weird Fiction, and our longest-running group has met at the Athenaeum monthly for over three decades. From September through June of each year, the Athenaeum is filled with hundreds of enthusiastic and friendly readers embarking on literary journeys together. The institution’s long history testifies to an unshakeable belief in the expansive power of the written word to inform, enlighten, entertain, inspire, amuse, enrage and engage. Athenaeum reading groups offer the ideal opportunity to try books or authors you’ve long wanted to read or re-read, in the shared company of other intellectually curious readers and engaging, encouraging group leaders. In keeping with the Athenaeum’s public mission, the reading groups are offered at no cost, and they are available to members and non-members alike. If you’d like to host a reading group at the Athenaeum, please

East Side Monthly October 2016

let us know! We’re always open to new ideas. While this year’s groups are at capacity, we have a full season of exciting events ahead, and we hope to see you at the library soon. Matt Burriesci Executive Director, Providence Athenaeum In Defense of the Summit Garden Fellow neighbor Pam Lai’s preemptive eulogy for the 9th Street playground [was] incorrect on almost all counts. As a parent of a young child and practically a resident of the Tot Lot for five years, I’m motivated to confront this erroneous narrative. First, neighborhood residents were informed and regularly updated about the idea of a community garden, and neighbors were invited to participate in the dialogue. The discussion about this goes all the way back to at least April of 2009 as residents came together to consider locations. The first SNA meeting was held on this topic in August of 2010. The meeting minutes are still online. Several SNA meetings were held subsequently, all with the aim of gauging public support for the idea (because that’s what a neighborhood association is for). On September 20, 2012, Summit residents were invited to attend an open meeting at the Tot Lot itself to meet with SNA board members, Director of Parks Bob McMahon and a landscape architect. Second, the community garden is not “replacing” anything, nor does it constitute “nearly a third” of the playground. Not even close. It comprises

a narrow corridor along one side of the lot that has mostly been occupied by dandelions, not kids. So enough with the hyperbole; the playground isn’t being composted. Third, that a tiny percentage of children may have a severe allergy to some types of fruits or vegetables that could potentially be grown there is a non-starter. What next? Are these helicopter parents going to demand that supermarkets start providing enclosed, hermetically sealed shopping carts, lest their little ones grab at a strawberry? It’s a garden. It’s great that parents recognize the value of free, unstructured outdoor play on the developing minds and bodies of young children. But it’s only part of the solution to what has become an epidemic among American children; obesity and diabetes are not just a symptom of poor exercise habits but lack of sound nutrition. And that starts with education at an early age about what we put in our bodies. So what message are we sending our kids by complaining that a garden is an affront to a healthy, free, joyful lifestyle? The chestnut tree would have to concede that its sacrifice serves a greater good. When the kids are staring, wideeyed, at the first fat tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers ripening on the vines next summer, the value will be clear. And the playground will be a more welcoming and a more exciting place to visit than ever. Emlyn Addison

MONTHLY

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Contributing Photographers Ian Travis Barnard Mike Braca Brian DeMello Grace Lentini Kendall Pavan St. Laurent

Contributing Illustrators Allison Blackwell Ashley MacLure

Contributing Writers Erin Balsa Alastair Cairns Michael Clark Mary K. Connor Emily Dietsch Mike Fink Don Fowler

Wendy Grossman Amanda Grosvenor Lauri Lee Stephanie Obodda Elizabeth Rau Holly Vine

Classified Advertising Sue Howarth Interns Alexander Gim-Fain Kemill Logarta Evan Tegan

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 ©2016 by East Side Monthly. All rights reserved.

Confused about when you should have your first mammogram?

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Rhode Island Medical Imaging, along with national medical organizations, such as the ACR, SBI and ACOG, recommends women have a baseline screening mammogram at age 40 – and ANNUAL screenings thereafter. Studies show that 75% of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients have NO known risk factors; therefore, all women age 40 and over should have annual screening mammograms to ensure the earliest detection possible. “First at 40” leads to early detection which is your best protection. For more information, go to www.rimirad.com/firstat40

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October 2016 East Side Monthly

a short FiCtion Competition For rhode island students

students grades 8-12 Stories must be written by students in grades 8-12. Stories should be 2500 words or less and incorporate Rhode Island as a theme in some way.

submission deadline deCember 2016 Guidelines and submission information online at www.school-one.org.

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School One is a small, progressive high school on the East Side of Providence. Our hallmarks: a robust arts program; a creative curriculum; an inclusive and vibrant community; and a great track record with college and art school admissions.

Open Campus: Wednesday, Oct 26 • 9am-11am Created in partnership by

220 University Ave, Providence 401-331-2497 • School-One.org

For more information contact Diana C. at School One, 401-331-2497 or dianac@school-one.org, visit www.school-one.org or www.goathillwriters.com

providence monthly 9_16_Layout 1 9/7/16 10:01 AM Page 1

OPEN HOUSE mosesbrown.org/admissions

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East Side Monthly October 2016

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and young women in a single-gender setting, from three years old through grade twelve. The benefits of that all-girls setting combined with an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, makes Bay View the perfect environment for girls and young women to grow, learn, lead, and be themselves. Learn more about Bay View’s 142-year tradition of educating girls Come to Open House.

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October 2016 East Side Monthly

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COMMUNITY East Side Stories | Neighborhood News & Notes

East Side News

Four Decades of Film The Cable Car celebrates the big 4-0 with 24 hours of flicks from ‘76 By Tony Pacitti In 1976, two brothers named Ray and Al Biloudeau opened the Cable Car Cinema. We may have traded Taxi Driver for Suicide Squad over those 40 years, but the Cable Car is still here to offer an alternative to big budget escapism. To celebrate its 40th, it will be presenting 24 straight hours of programming from 1976 starting at noon on October 1. “We could have gone obscure, but we want this to be accessible,” explains owner Daniel Kamil, who in 2008 purchased the then-struggling theater with his wife and partner Emily Steffian. Though counter to its usual programming, the marathon will serve as a nearperfect representation of what movies were like in 1976. Taxi Driver, sadly, won’t be available for screening, but audiences

can expect Peter Sellers’ fifth at-bat as dimwitted French Inspector Clouseau in The Pink Panther Strikes Again, and classics like Rocky, Carrie and Network, which seems to get more frightening with each passing year. In its 40 years, the Cable Car has endured cable and home video, the rise of the multiplex and the fall of analog presentation. But obstacles persist for all art house theaters, especially in a contemporary landscape where our phones are the only gatekeeper between us and watching a movie. “We struggle existentially,” says Kamil. “What is the meaning of a cinema when we have the ability to see everything on your phone? The only thing that we’re selling is

Cable Car owners Emily Steffian and Daniel Kamil welcome movie buffs to an all-day marathon on October 1

community. Is that important? We make the case that it is.” I agree. If you need me on October 1, I’ll be sitting in the dark, basking in

the cinematic spirit of ‘76 with a room full of strangers. Find the full line up and showtimes online. 204 South Main Street. 272-3970, CableCarCinema.com

The Glow of 10,000 Suns Photography by (Top) Kendall Pavan St. Laurent; Photo courtesy of (Bottom) Sascha Azbel

A Fox Point artist makes sunflowers shine on I-195 land By Stephanie Gorton Murphy Since June 2016, the public art installation 10,000 Suns has transformed a vacant parcel of the I-195 Redevelopment District. Designed and directed by Fox Point resident Adam E. Anderson, the sunflowers reached their peak bloom in September and are due to naturally fade out with the first frosts. “I’ve always had a fascination with sunflowers and their ability to become something so striking in such a short amount of time,” Anderson says.

Roughly 60 days after they were planted, the seeds turned into the sturdy rows of yellow-and-green that currently brighten the riverfront. His biggest surprise has been the “unbelievably positive” community response. Close behind was the startling discovery that sunflowers not only follow the sun, but also the moon – something he noticed while working late at night by headlamp. Anderson is a full-time landscape architect, for

East Sider Adam E. Anderson has turned vacant I-195 land into a living art installation with 10,000 Suns

his own studio as well as for a Bostonbased company, and teaches regularly at RISD. Since the drought-affected installation needed frequent watering, he sometimes found himself in the field at 2:30 in the morning. “During those bleak moments, when I was almost embarrassed that it wasn’t thriving like I’d hoped, people would give positive comments,” Anderson says. “Seeing effort made for something like this – people really responded to it. It made them feel good.” Alissa Peterson, a Fox Point Neighborhood Association board member, says, “The sunflower art installation is a wonderful example of a new interim use for the former I-195 space. It fosters community through a shared volunteer experience and provides a point of visual interest and beauty.” And yet there were serious problems with the canvas Anderson had chosen. The soil was toxic from the highway it used to support. In some areas, cultivation

could not take hold at all; in others, a nitrogen-fixing weed had replenished the soil enough to encourage healthy growth. 10,000 Suns is meant to encourage people to think differently about urban development. Anderson says, “Hopefully this gets people thinking not only about the development of new buildings in Providence, but about the culture of their landscape being a crucial part of their city. It’s not necessarily always about growth, but about cultivation and artful expression. We need to fight for that along our riverfront and everywhere else.” Once colder weather settles in, the plants will be collected and composted. They are due to rise again in summer 2017. There will be even more scope for community involvement, with interested volunteers adopting a smaller plot of sunflowers within the larger installation. Opposition doesn’t seem to be an issue; as Anderson points out, “It’s hard not to like a sunflower.”

October 2016 East Side Monthly

ELISE PENN PANSEY The Pet Friendly Realtor

Community

continued...

Bill Comeau Seeks Solid Gold DEDICATION... ...is a word that is both used and abused these days. But I want you to know that I really am dedicated to my customers and to my profession. If a real estate transaction is in your future, let’s talk. Then you can decide for yourself if you really believe that I am...

The multi-talented writer and artist debuts his new book By Tony Pacitti

...DEDICATED... to serving YOU! Call me today!

ELISE PENN PANSEY The Pet Friendly Realtor Butterman & Kryston, Inc. 749 East Ave. Pawtucket, RI @ Blackstone Blvd

401.455.1625 www.elisepennpansey.com 401.521.9490 x22

If anyone has earned the title of “troubadour” it’s Reverend Dr. A. Bill Comeau. As an artist he dabbles in multiple disciplines, and as an educator he feels as comfortable in a classroom as he does in a house of worship. Over a career that would make the most ambitious among us do a double take, Comeau has published poems, plays and novels, recorded albums – among them a few Grammy finalists – proven to be an accomplished painter and even created the Biggest Little State in the Union ad campaign for Rhode Island in the early 1980s. Never one to slow down, the musician-writer-teacher-reverend has just released his latest work, the novel Seeking Solid Gold. The book, which is inspired by Comeau’s own life, tells the touching story of a romance between an aspiring 12

East Side Monthly October 2016

musician and a Radio City Rockette. “It’s a stretching of the story of my life in music from 1968 to present and trying to get a gold record but instead ruining a couple of relationships,” Comeau says. He may not have had a decades-spanning romance with a Rockette like his protagonist did, but therein lies the joys of fiction. “I only met [a Rockette] once, but this follows what would have happened if I could have pursued her,” he says. “With a novel you can make history do what it didn’t.” Comeau will be at Books on the Square to read from Seeking Solid Gold on October 22 at 7pm. In addition the Providence Art Club, to which Comeau is a longtime member, will be presenting 20 of his paintings from the last ten years on October 16. BookSq. com, ProvidenceArtClub.org

Photo courtesy by Melissa Van Ruiten Photography

Writer-artist Rev. Dr. Bill Comeau will read from his new book Seeking Solid Gold on October 22 at Books on the Square

Community

continued...

Studying What Goes Bump in the Night A local ghost hunter premieres a new TV show By Julie Tremaine

Here’s the thing to know about paranormal expert Amy Bruni: the Ghostbusters jokes aren’t going to go over well. It’s not that they aren’t funny; it’s just that they’ve been done, if you’ll pardon the pun, to death. Recently, while taping an episode of her upcoming show Kindred Spirits, fans played the Ghostbusters theme outside of the house where she and her partner in ghost hunting, Adam Berry, were investigating unexplained phenomena. They aren’t, in fact, afraid of no ghosts. It’s just not a joke to them, especially on this new show, on which Bruni and Berry help people who believe their homes are being haunted by departed family members. Bruni spent seven years on SyFy’s Ghost Hunters, as part of the team at Warwick-based TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society), seeking out evidence of otherworldly presences all over the globe. Things are a bit quieter these days, now that filming on the first season of her new show has wrapped. On an average day, you can find Bruni hanging out in Providence or Newport,

or talking to her followers on Twitter about anything from wine recommendations to where to find a good sale. Call it the calm before the storm. Once Kindred Spirits is on the air, things are going to get crazy. Because those Twitter followers? There are 187,000 of them, and another 200,000 on Facebook. It’s safe to say that demand for Bruni’s particular talent for ghost hunting is high. In each episode of Kindred Spirits, Bruni and Berry concentrate on one haunting. The pair talks intensively with the family, does research on the home and family’s history, and consults with experts in other fields like psychology and grief counseling. Then, of course, they investigate for ghosts. “We just try to figure out what this ghost wants or needs,” she says. They do that through audio and video surveillance, using handheld camera and recording devices to monitor environmental changes, search for EVPs (electronic voice phenomena, where something actually speaks to you) and observe EMF fluctuations

RI ghost hunter Amy Bruni and her partner Adam Berry investigate the ghosts of departed family members on Kindred Spirits

(changes to electromagnetic fields). “It sounds crazy but it’s been working. I can’t give away too much, but we’ve run the gamut this season from people acknowledging who they are and what they want, to getting a message from the entity and passing it on,” Bruni says. “There have been a lot of tears, a lot of scary moments, a lot of laughs. It’s unlike anything people have seen on TV, I think. It’s really personal.”

Beyond this show, Bruni has even bigger ghost hunting dreams. “I would love to investigate Graceland,” she says. “They say the whole second floor is haunted. The White House is high on my list. It has a lot of ghost stories. I just need to find a president who is a Ghost Hunters fan, well, a Kindred Spirits fan.” Kindred Spirits will premiere this month on Destination America. Amy-Bruni.net

A Benevolent Bicentennial The First Unitarian Church Meeting House Turns 200 Photo courtesy of (top) Kindred Spirits, (bottom) First Unitarian Church

By Kim Harris Stowell In 1720, a small group of Rhode Islanders formed a congregation in Providence, meeting in a small house on Rosemary Lane. Within a few years, they called their first minister, and in the late 1700s, purchased a tract of land and erected a beautiful wooden church. Within 20 years of its completion however, a demented parishioner set fire to a column of the building and burned it to the ground. Undaunted, a member of the congregation, architect John Holden Greene, designed the First Unitarian Church. Made this time of stone and dedicated in 1816, it is this fine building that is celebrating its 200th anniversary this month. There have been many changes to that stone church. During the Victorian era, it was updated to include diamond-shaped windows and columns were painted in stripes, changes that were reversed at the time of the church’s centennial. When the meetinghouse marked 150 years, another effort was put into updating and sprucing up the building, but disaster struck again, this time in the form of a lightning strike

to the steeple. Fire broke out as the electricity traveled down the steeple and into the organ, causing its pipes to blow out. While the fire was extinguished, all the work on the building’s interior was ruined. Today, the Providence County Courthouse stands where the original meetinghouse was located, Rosemary Lane is called College Street and the First Unitarian Church’s Meeting House is in fine form as it prepares for its 200th anniversary celebration weekend. Festivities include a month-long exhibit of photos and memorabilia, and a special concert featuring the award-winning Atwater-Donnelly Trio will be held in First Unitarian’s Meeting House on October 29 at 8pm. Aubrey Atwater and Elwood Donnelly (who were married at First Unitarian) along with Cathy Clasper-Torch will provide a unique blend of traditional American and Celtic folk music and dance. $25 tickets will be sold at the door. 1 Benevolent Street. 421-7970, FirstUnitarianProv.org

The First Unitarian Church, rebuilt after a fire in 1816, celebrates its bicentennial this month October 2016 East Side Monthly

Community In the Know by Barry Fain

Experience. Integrity. Results.

Our annual Coats for Coffee drive, done in partnership with Seven Stars and Courtesy Cleaners, will be collecting winter coats for those in need from October 17-23

Our Annual Coats for Coffee Drive Providence Media is proud to announce that we will be launching our ninth annual Coats for Coffee drive this month and we’re hoping you can help. And there’s a modest reward in it if you do. Donate a gently used coat to any Seven Stars Bakery or Courtesy Cleaners and receive a free cup of coffee. Donations made at Seven Stars on the first day of the drive will also get you a free pastry. The drive begins on October 17 and will go until October 23. Last year we collected 264 coats. All of them were cleaned by Courtesy Cleaners and then delivered to the Boys and Girls Club of Providence for families in need. Adult and kid sizes will be accepted. It’s a project that makes us feel warm all over and we hope you’ll join us.

Photography by Dan Schwartz

Paging for Aging Kudos to one of our former editors, Herb Weiss, who over the course of almost four decades has become one of the state’s most knowledgeable and prolific writers on the subject of aging effectively and graciously. He has just published his first book Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly, a compilation of some of his favorite articles produced over the years, mostly as the senior living columnist for the Pawtucket Times. Herb started his career as the founding editor for one of our publications, Senior Living (now called Prime Time). Divided into 13 separate sections, the book covers just about anything that applies to the preparation for (not to mention celebration of) the onslaught of advancing age. Sometimes serious, mostly informative, it’s a nice read. Congratulations, Herb.

This One’s For the Girls An interesting East Side road race will be held on October 9 that is worth our attention. Called the Ronald McDonald House Women’s Classic Road Race, it’s also the only all women road race in the state. There will be a 3K and a 5K course, and both will be held entirely

on the East Side. It starts at the Brown football stadium and finishes in what’s called “Olympic style” at the Brown University track. There will also be kids’ races and a wellness fair. The race is open to women of all ages, from the walkers to competitive racers. Contact RMHProvidence.org for specifics about entering and supporting the House.

Missing the Extra Point And speaking of Brown, we’re disappointed that the school will not be holding what had become, in our minds, a wonderful new tradition: the annual night game at the stadium. The event had been drawing sizable crowds of Brown students, along with interested locals like us who love to live vicariously through their enthusiasm. Here’s hoping this is only a one-year fumble.

Call Gerri Schiffman (401) 474-3733

Top IndIvIdual agenT sInCe 1996

Local Theatre That’s Really Local One of the best-kept secrets about the local theatre scene in Providence is hidden right here on the East Side. The Brown University Theatre showcases its talented writers, actors and directors with some wonderfully creative plays and dance presentations. The ticket prices are great ($15), the performances are quite good given the Brown-Trinity collaborations and the location at Leeds Theatre on Waterman Street couldn’t be much easier to get to. They open their season with By the Way, Meet Vera Stark, (now through October 2 and October 6-9) which they describe as a “screwball comedy” about an up and coming black actor in the 1930s trying to break free of the Hollywood system. Next on the docket is The Love Song of J. Robert Oppenheimer, a more serious play about how the famous developer of the atomic bomb confronts the challenges of scientific impulses and military pragmatism, which runs November 3-6 and 10-13 in the Stuart Theatre. And finally there’s a modern retelling of Hecuba, from December 1-4. To book tickets call 863-2838 or email BoxOffice@Brown. edu. We’re lucky to have them right here on the East Side and they certainly deserve a look-see.

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Community Neighborhood News Blackstone Parks Conservancy Sprucing up the Conservation District Before and after images dance in the heads of Blackstone Park Conservancy (BPC) volunteers on a muggy September day in the Blackstone Park Conservation District. They are here to inspect the woodland for damaged plants and trails and to plan maintenance sessions. The volunteers see much work to do: plants to replace, trails to refresh. But what a long way the center section has come. Thanks to BPC supporters, the Parks Department and several environmental agencies, there is so much more than there was a few years ago. One gasps in dismay at blueberry bushes stripped bare by the winter moth and viburnums damaged by the drought. And yet, several thousand native plants installed in 2014 and 2015 by the Conservancy with Coastal Resource Management Council habitat grants and supporters’ donations now fill once-empty spaces throughout the plateau and along the Boathouse Trail. Losses of about one percent? Not so bad. Most of the new viburnums, sweet pepper bushes, asters and grasses have flourished, thanks in part to BPCfunded watering. Walking the trails refurbished with Department of Environmental Management grants over the past two years, longtime Conservancy volunteers recall what they used to be like. “There was a gully there,” exclaims Don Cordner, pointing to a slope now covered with green. He and Park Committee Chair Carrie Drake proceed to figure out next steps for restoring a nearby patch of bare soil that has been beaten down by people walking off the trail. For the trails now showing sand again, the volunteers note that masses of chips will be needed to replace those put down in 2014. “Let’s ask the Parks Department if they can send over a bobcat to spread the chips – once we find them,” suggests Drake. The volunteers will ask the Appalachian Mountain Club to help restore some of the split rail fencing they built years ago. But the Conservancy may have to pay for 30 or 40 replacement plants. Drake also thinks another work session may be needed as well. RISD Freshmen in the Park In September, for the second year in a row, Rhode Island School of Design newcomers showed up to help BPC volunteers prepare play areas for small

children. Their assignment was twofold. First, find sticks and invasive Japanese knotweed stalks by York Pond, and repair/embellish the temporary fence for the “Children’s Circle” just inside the woods behind Blackstone Field. Second, create a structure out of found materials where small children might play. Project leader Elena Riverstone and Education Committee Chair Rick Richards explained to the artists-in-training that the Conservation District is a semiwild park where nature holds sway with minimal incursions by people. No permanent structures may be built, and plants and trees are interfered with only so far as safety requires. Only twine can be used for fastening. They met the challenge with gusto. Last year’s creation was a teepee. This year the freshmen came up with a ship complete with a flag woven with strips of the bamboo-like Knotweed.

RISD freshman made this “ship” out of cleared branches and invasive materials in Blackstone Park

Events this Month FPNA Board Meeting, 7pm, Monday, October 11 at the Vartan Gregorian Bath House Community Room, 455 Wickenden Street. Public welcome. FPNA bi-annual community membership meeting, to be announced.

and interested guests that the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, RIDOT, has permanently defunded the I-195 construction project in order to cover rising costs of the Providence River Pedestrian Bridge, now at $18 million. The $2.4 million dollars, which was taken from the proposed Gano Gateway project, would have solved many inherent problems that currently exist for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists at the intersection of India and Gano streets. Foremost, it would have removed the existing stop sign with its 90-degree turn, which drastically slows traffic flow from both directions. A widened new roadway traveling under a more eastern span of the Washington Bridge would have taken its place. Turn lanes in both directions for accessing the I-195 Gano westbound entrance ramp were included. The design plan also would have provided widened sidewalks and traffic crossings for cyclists, pedestrians and dog walkers, who now must dodge aggravated motorists. Included in the RIDOT design were two additional parking lots under the bridge for India Point Park, each with lighting and landscaping.

Save Gano Gateway Coalition Forms The Fox Point Neighborhood Association (FPNA) has formed Save Gano Gateway, a coalition seeking to restore funding to the proposed I-195 construction project at the intersection of Gano and India streets in Fox Point. On August 26, Providence Department of Planning and Development Director Bonnie Nickerson told FPNA

Design Drawings Shown in 2011 The design of the Gano-India Street construction project was first presented to FPNA by RIDOT Senior Engineer Lambri Zerva in 2011. It logically was to follow the extension of the Blackstone Bikeway, currently under construction. It is called the Gano Gateway because it is located at the convergence of the first I-195 entrance into the city from

Events (Check website for details) October 9, 1:30-4pm: Native American Culture Day October 16, 8am: Birdwalk, Lauren Parmelee October 29, 5pm: Not-So-Spooky Trailwalk Please check out our website (see below) and Facebook page. And please send in those East Side Marketplace receipts. Blackstone Parks Conservancy, P.O. Box 603141, Providence, RI 02906. 270-3014, BlackstoneParksConservancy.org, BlackstoneParksConservancy@gmail.com. –Jane Peterson

Fox Point Neighborhood Association

the east and a nexus of bike pathway systems. At this critical point, the Blackstone Bikeway, which will eventually connect to Woonsocket, joins the Washington Bridge Linear Park, the East Bay Bikeway system and India Point Park for access to other bikeways into Providence. Both Nickerson and McNalley said the proposal to defund the project was a “funding decision,” to keep the pedestrian bridge construction project, expected to be completed in 2018, on track. “It is crucial to development of the I-195 corridor for the public to see construction on this centerpiece project begin,” McNalley said. FPNA board members assured him that they would do nothing to slow that process. “We’ve gone to design meetings on the bridge, too, and know that any change delays the project for numerous months,” FPNA Executive Secretary John Rousseau responded. “We assure you that we are in 100% agreement with you that nothing should delay the pedestrian bridge project for one day.” While that consensus is goal number one of the Save Gano Gateway group, goal number two is urging RIDOT and Governor Gina Raimondo to find other funding options for this last I-195 project. “We’ve seen the blue signs for the Newport-to-Providence Ferry go up all over the area,” he pointed out. Gano Gateway Crucial for Tourism “This proposed gateway is an important piece of the waterfront development puzzle that should not be cherry-picked, for defunding,” Rousseau

October 2016 East Side Monthly

Community Neighborhood News

emphasized. “If the Governor’s Office is serious about building on the ferry’s success and increasing tourism in Rhode Island, we believe the funding can be found somewhere.” The only complaint we’ve heard about the ferry is that sometimes there is not enough parking,” Rousseau said. “Congestion on Gano Street, however, is the number one complaint FPNA has been receiving from residents and motorists, who exit at the I-195 Gano ramp for College Hill and Brown University,” Rousseau said. “For motorists turning left to attend and then leave events at India Point Park, they face total gridlock.” Powning says that insufficient parking spaces and interstate access means all events at India Point Park must deal with unreasonable traffic jams. “Eventually, event-goers may not come back,” she added. “My kids have grown up watching us participate in the public meeting process for as long as we’ve lived here,” Powning adds. “It’s really a sad lesson for them to learn when government goes back on its word.” Unsafe Conditions Under Bridge Underneath the bridge, there is no lighting or landscaping with varying amounts of debris and potholes since the I-195 Gano eastbound entry ramp was removed in 2007. “This derelict place is filled with garbage, potholes, illegal dumping and piles of construction debris, which they periodically move around,” Powning pointed out. “It’s an abandoned area that is unsafe for our park and nearby schools.” The neighborhood has been looking forward to a transformation of this eyesore since the I-195 eastbound entranceway was removed in 2007. Removal of that ramp left a mountainous berm that looms over Brown University’s Hunter S. Marsden Boathouse. “If the (gateway) construction doesn’t go forward, we’ll have to alter the landscaping improvement plans we have for the boathouse,” said Albert Dahlberg. Both State Representative Chris Blazejewski and State Senator Gayle Goldin pledged support to Save Gano Gateway through their contacts in state government. Councilman Seth Yurdin, who was out of state when the meeting was held, has been communicating with FPNA since hearing of the decision in

East Side Monthly October 2016

The Henry Bowen Anthony fountain in Lippitt Park was repaired and turned back on in August. The damage was blamed on children playing in the basin, in violation of posted policy, which pulled out the waterproofing sealant

mid-August. “It is very disappointing that the state has unilaterally proposed cutting funding for this project without notice or input from our neighborhood,” he said following the meeting. “I will continue to work with FPNA to push for restoration of funds and for the necessary improvements for both the neighborhood and India Point Park.” Many of the persons in the room participated in numerous charettes on the waterfront in 2007, which gave development direction to the Providence Tomorrow Comprehensive Plan. That document calls for “establishment of gateways to the waterfront from the existing neighborhood, streetscape and pedestrian improvements along key connections and parking to encourage public use of the waterfront.” Fox Point Neighborhood Association, P.O. Box 603177, Providence, RI 02906. 270-7121, FPNA.net, FPNA@cox.net. –John Rousseau

Summit Neighborhood Association Lippitt Park Fountain Flowing Again The water is again spouting from the fountain in Lippitt Park, but at a cost of $13,000. Brunca Waterproofing Co. of Providence was hired by the city to repair the iconic feature after it was shut down a year ago because of leakage. The Parks Department and the

contractor said children playing in the basin had apparently pulled out the grout sealing the seams. The new sealant is a two-part epoxy often used to secure glass in high-rise buildings. There are signs posted around the fountain warning people to stay out because of the danger from sharp pipes and broken glass, but also to maintain the condition of the basin. However, many residents on the SNA listserv have commented that keeping children out of a fountain on hot summer days is almost impossible and that the park might be better served by a splash-friendly pool. They point out that although the fountain is part of the park’s character and belongs to all of the people of the city, the neighborhood and its needs have changed. As yet, there have been no discussions with the city about a splash-pool substitute, but that could change. In addition to the water restoration, there is an effort to replace the stolen “W” of the embedded four compass points surrounding it, but the initial cost has been estimated at $6,500. SNA board of director’s member Ethan Gyles is exploring less expensive ways to accomplish the replacement and would appreciate suggestions. He can be contacted through SNA email, listserv or website. Hope Street Hopes For New Lights The Hope Street Merchants Association has launched a crowd-funding

campaign to install solar-powered streetlights along the business district. Mayor Jorge Elorza and RI Representative Aaron Regunberg joined dozens of other people at NBX Bikes on August 24 for food and drinks as part of the drive to raise money to pay for the off-grid fixtures that feature soft and inviting illumination without contributing to light pollution. The base of each lamp will have a zoetrope accessible to children. A prototype now stands in front of Kreatelier at 804 Hope Street. The goal is 30 lamps stretching from Rochambeau Avenue to Fifth Street paid for by a mix of grants, corporate sponsorships and community donations. For more information or to help, go to Facebook.com/HopeStreetProv. Accountability of Government Explored “The real key” to making government work properly, says John Marion, the executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, is for “people to take advantage of the right to participate.” Speaking to about 15 Summit residents Wednesday evening at the second in SNA’s lecture series, Marion said, “We can build institutions, but who is going to take advantage of them?” His topic was “How do we hold power accountable?” and was followed by a question-and-answer period. He said citizens must become “active visitors” at meetings of governmental bodies and “have to file complaints” to

Community Neighborhood News

make laws effective and figure out how to enforce them. He cited the history of Common Cause, which was formed nationally in the 1970s as a “people’s lobby” and worked in Rhode Island during the 1980s on the separation of powers in state government. Marion, who lives on the East Side “near the observatory,” said citizens hold legislators accountable at election time but also must monitor “how they hold the public trust between elections.” Unfortunately, he noted, the district has been represented by people who abused that trust. He urged voters to support the proposals on the November ballot to modernize elections in the state. “One of the broken institutions in Rhode Island is the Board of Elections,” Marion said, that “wants to run elections the way they always have.” He pointed out that there is a state ethics commission, but that the RI Supreme Court ruled that the commission doesn’t have jurisdiction over legislators. He said Common Cause was working to get that power back to the panel and urged his listeners to support that effort. Residents Invited To Directors Meetings The SNA board of directors meets at 7pm on the third Monday of every month in the cafeteria of Summit Commons, 99 Hillside Ave. The sessions are open and neighborhood residents are encouraged to attend. Summit Neighborhood Association, PO Box 41092, Providence RI 02940. 489-7078, SNA. Providence.RI.us, SNA@SNA.Providence.RI.us. –Kerry Kohring

Wayland Square Neighborhood Discussion Group at Books on the Square Monthly Meetings Wednesdays, September 28 and October 26, from 7-8:45pm, Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street at Elmgrove Avenue, next to CVS. Free and open to all. Election Forum Our Wayland Square group will hold a forum for local election candidates at our last scheduled meeting of 2016, on Wednesday 26 October, beginning just after 7pm (see above). The only races on Providence ballots

this year (apart from those for the White House and the US House of Representatives) are for seats in the Rhode Island General Assembly (state legislature). On our part of the East Side (where state Senator Gayle Goldin is unopposed for re-election), each of our two state Representatives will be challenged in November. Representative Chris Blazejewski, a Democrat who represents the part between Angell Street and Fox Point/ India Point, will face Mark Teoli of the Republican Party. Veteran Representative Edith Ajello, another Democrat representing the area running north from Angell Street roughly to Brown Stadium, is being challenged by an independent candidate, Ray Mathieu. All four of these candidates have agreed to speak at our forum Commercial Notes Two new businesses have now finally opened on facing sides of Medway at Wayland Avenue. On August 18, Pasta Beach (already established in Boston and Newport) opened its Wayland Square doors to a lively traffic. Its cooks, who come from all parts of Italy, prepare fresh pizze, paste, calzoni, focaccie and other dishes. A week later, West Elm held a grand opening attended by the mayor. West Elm (with 102 locations around the country) offers home goods ranging from beds to coffee cups, with an emphasis on organic, fair-trade and local sources (one section promotes Rhode Island crafts). Two new developments I noticed in early September without investigating further are the promised reopening in mid-October of Dorothy Williams women’s clothing (next to the Wayland Square Diner) and the construction of a new building on the corner of Seekonk Street and Wayland Avenue, in what had been a parking lot for the United Way/FM building on Waterman and Wayland (now Washington Trust and Moe’s Southwest Grill). More Information Check our Yahoo! Group’s public message board (below) 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. Also visit our brand new Facebook page. Groups.Yahoo.com/Group/WaylandSquare –David Kolsky

Mount Hope Neighborhood Association East Side residents look up to a new horizon! Neighbors and friends are coming together and new programs are starting, with more in the planning stages. One of these, which has caught neighborhood attention, is the recent addition of the skate park at the Billy Taylor Park on Cyprus and Camp street. The whole process went under the radar when the proposal was not properly vetted with neighborhood residents. As a result, Helen Dukes, who resides near the park, began holding monthly meetings of the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association (MHNA) at 199 Camp Street. The Controversy is not over and the whole process needs a second look. Too many issues concerning the neighborhood are being discovered after the fact, so we encourage everyone to come out and voice your concerns, objections or solutions. Your view matters and will be taken into consideration. Other issues that arose concerned sewer drains, street sweepers and a minor rat problem. Anyone affected by these should call the MHNA at 521-8830 so we can notify the proper city agency. Also, you might have noticed the new streetlamp lighting. We’ve been told that we are the first neighborhood to have them installed. Marcus Mitchell has taken the lead by contacting the proper city agencies on many of these issues and has been instrumental with the results we’ve seen thus far. The MHNA will be starting its monthly meetings on the third Thursday of every month at 199 Camp Street under the interim direction of Eugene Monteiro as executive director and Bernadette Tavares as chairman of the board. Come out and take part! One of the new additions will be the WIC program that will be operating out of the MHNA. Reverend Campbell has also been instrumental in the newly formed Culinary Program that was held at the Church of the Redeemer. Its first graduating class

finished the program on August 25 under the supervision of Chef Charlie. The program sought to instruct 14-17 year olds in preparing fresh vegetables and healthy meals, baking included. Be on the look out for the next session to get under way. We’re looking for 14-17 year olds to participate three nights a week from 4-7pm. The program lasts 6-8 weeks. This Culinary Program came from one of the new, innovative programs being promoted by the Plan 4 Health Initiative through the Community Health Workers under the direction of Dr. Dannie Ritchie of Brown University, who is also overseeing the Food Sovereignty Program and the Empowerment Dialogue, which encourages neighborhood resources to work together to produce better results. The shining star of this campaign is the community garden located at the Billy Taylor Park on the corner of Camp and Cypress, where a healthy alternative vegetable garden is taking shape after 18 months of hard work. The garden will be open on Mondays and Fridays from 4-7pm and Wednesdays from 11am-2pm. Volunteers are needs, so call MHNA if interested. This has produced the first pop-up garden where Eugenia Marks, a CHW worker, and others from MHNA help distribute the fruit – and vegetables – of their labor. Look out for the next one on October 8 from 9am-3pm. Kudos to Jeroen and Keriann Koeman, Evergreen residents and owners of Wicked Tulips in Johnston who planted a tulip garden in what was an overgrown lot at the old bus turn around at Camp and Evergreen. Everyone who drove by was able to take a moment of joy and breathe of fresh air. We can’t forget the Nathan Bishop students who, under the supervision of Richard Taylor form the history department, took the tulips down to the North Burial Grounds veterans’ burial site for an honorary service giving respect to those who have served. The students proceeded to place the tulips on the grave markers of veterans, removed any old flags and replaced them with new ones. Special thanks to Major Allen Ali at the North Main Command Center and Joseph Hunt Washington of the Black Vietnam Veterans from Prairie Avenue whose presence made the event all the more meaningful. Also to Tom Brown and the North

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Waterman Street Dog Park The Waterman Street Dog Park is finally open! After years of hard work by community members, the grand opening was held on September 17. Now, the East Side will have a state of the art dog park to support our whole neighborhood. Dogs will be able to frolic off leash, working off their energy in a beautiful wooded park. We still have work to do to maintain the park and keep it beautiful. But for now, we have something to celebrate. Come on down, and check it out! Waterman Street Dog Park Association, 19 Luzon Avenue, Providence 02906. WatermanStDogPark@gmail.com, WatermanStDogPark.org. –Sam Bell

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East Side Monthly October 2016

College Hill Neighborhood Association A September 29 Party in Prospect Terrace A special College Hill neighborhood fall get together will be held in Prospect Terrace on September 29 from 5:30-7:30pm. Come join your neighbors as we share news about our ongoing efforts to work with the City to freshen up the park. Bring a chair or blanket, serious food if you want – though there will be some drinks and refreshments provided by the College Hill Neighborhood Association (CHNA) – and your thoughts about specific park improvements you’d like to see. We also expect to have a film to show you that elaborates on our hopes for enhancing this wonderful jewel in the city. We look forward to seeing you. Panhandling and Crime Discussed About two dozen neighborhood residents joined the CHNA board in hearing brief updates on two subjects of concern to our community: panhandling and crime. Jordan Van Leesten, representing the City, noted that a new broad-based program was about to be announced by the mayor on September 15. Of particular concern to attendees was the army of signbearing solicitors that now line North Main Street on an almost permanent basis, Thayer Street and of course

downtown. We, like the most of the residents of the city, eagerly await some positive changes to address a problem that is spiraling out of control. Lt. Joe Donnelly, the supervisor for both the eighth and ninth precincts covering the East Side, presented the latest crime statistics to the board. While there is a prevailing sense that things have gotten worse in terms of property crime, the most recent numbers he presented showed things are not statistically worse than in the past. He did suggest that the previous burglaries from a year or so ago seemed to be the work of a more professional ring that often gained access on the second floors of home to avoid old alarm systems. The ones today, he suggested, seemed to be more the result of opportunistic “amateurs.” He did admit the police department remains significantly undermanned and continues to work closely with the local campus police to augment their surveillance. News From Thayer Street The exciting news here is that the interim commercial parking lot just off Thayer Street is now open. Its entrance/exit is on Cushing Street next to the Flatbread Company and can be accessed by either Thayer Street or Brook. Now spending a full day enjoying a movie at the Avon, shopping or dining on Thayer Street is easy, without more meter worries. The Thayer Street District Management Authority (TSDMA) announces the street has expanded its social media presence. In addition to being on Facebook, the street is now providing access to all programs and activities on Thayer on both Instagram and Twitter as well. You can follow them @thayerstreetpvd or #lovethayer or #thayerstreet. The merchants on the street also wanted to remind everyone that the Third Annual Thayer Street Art Festival will be held on September 25 from 10am-5pm. The street will be closed to vehicular traffic (Bowen to Angell) with an artisan tent, strolling musicians and other live entertainment plus family and kids activities. Go and enjoy! For more information about becoming a member of CHNA please contact us at any one of the following: College Hill Neighborhood Association, P.O. Box 2442, Providence, RI 02906. 6335230, CollegeHillNA.com, CHNA@CollegeHillNA.com. –Barry Fain

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158 Garden Street, Oak Hill area Gorgeous restored and remodeled Victorian. large rooms, new kitchen and appliances. Hardwoods throughout. two full baths with ceramic tile. Must see to appreciate. Motivated seller. $179,900

58 eVerGreen Street Unit# 1, eaSt Side Great first floor 3 bedroom unit featuring hardwood floors throughout, replacement windows, granite and stainless kitchen. new heating system. Storage and laundry in basement. Garage for parking and yard. $199,900

125 PrOSPect Street Unit# 1, eaSt Side Fabulous end unit with 3 levels of living. Granite and stainless kitchen with sliders to a nice deck. Bamboo floors. 3 bedrooms 2 1/5 baths. Central Air. Master with bath. Laundry in the unit. Patio. $434,000

79 rOSlyn aVenUe, elMHUrSt Gorgeous 1930’s Elmhurst Colonial. 4 Bedrooms, 2 full baths. Living room w/ gas fireplace. Large dining room with sliders to back deck. Cozy sun room. Bonus 3rd floor bedroom w/ full bath. 2 car garage. All new windows. Impeccable condition. $349,000

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East Side Monthly October 2016

An Innovative Plan With a big grant from the Rhode Island Foundation, Mount Hope native Raymond Watson hopes to bring cultural tourism to the forefront By John Taraborelli Photography by Mike Braca

Raymond Two Hawks Watson grew up in Mount Hope and served as the Executive Director of the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association from 2006 until this year. His next plans impact the whole state.

n April, the Rhode Island Foundation announced it was awarding its 2016 Innovation Fellowship to Raymond Two Hawks Watson for the creation of an initiative to drive cultural tourism in Rhode Island. At the time, most Rhode Islanders had probably never heard the term “cultural tourism,” but it’s an industry buzzword with powerful potential for the Ocean State.

What is Cultural Tourism and Why Does it Matter? Cultural tourism is travel that’s not based around theme parks, all-inclusive resorts, skiing, casinos, professional sports teams or any of the other things that typically define leisure or recreational tourism. Have you ever taken your kids on a day trip to Plimoth Plantation? Gone to New Orleans for Mardi Gras? Visited Egypt to behold the great pyramids? You were a cultural tourist. It’s an industry sector that’s growing in both people and dollars. The US Cultural and Heritage Tourism Marketing Council commissioned studies in 2009 and 2013 that demonstrated the growth potential: the number of travelers who said they were likely to take a cultural heritage trip rose from 51% to 60% and the total dollars spent on each trip went from $994 to $1,319. In 2011, the US Department of Commerce released its first Cultural Heritage Visitor Profile, which declared, “The fastest growing sector of international travel to the United States are cultural heritage tourists.” Findings from a 2009 study by the US Travel Association showed that 118 million adults qualified as cultural/heritage travelers that year, and that on average they stayed 53% longer and spent 36% more than others types of tourists. Tourism is already Rhode Island’s second biggest industry, so those kinds of numbers are alluring.

“

Cultural diversity is the state’s greatest natural resource. People are amazed at the diversity that’s here and then they want to come visit again. -Raymond Two Hawks Watson

Turning Ideas Into Investments

”

“Cultural diversity is the state’s greatest natural resource,” proclaims Watson. “People are amazed at the diversity that’s here and then they want to come visit again.” Therein lies the inspiration for the Providence Cultural Equity Initiative (PCEI), the idea that netted Watson a three-year, $300,000 investment from the Rhode Island Foundation. PCEI is a multi-pronged think tank and consulting firm dedicated to developing the state’s cultural sector by promoting its history, heritage and diversity. People who know Watson and have worked with him believe he’s the right man for the job. “Ray is one of the most consistent visionaries I have seen in my lifetime,” says Donald King, the former Artistic Director of the Providence Black Repertory Company who is now based in Austin, TX, but returns to Rhode Island regularly to work with Watson on the PCEI. “He will succeed because he is steadfast in his commitment to make Rhode Island better for all of its citizens.” Jessica David, the Rhode Island Foundation’s Senior Vice President of Strategy

October 2016 East Side Monthly

Brown University invites the public to learn about Brown’s Institutional Master Plan (“IMP”), which will be submitted to the City of Providence in early 2017. Attend any of three public community meetings to learn more about the IMP and have the opportunity for input. All meetings will be held at Brown’s Applied Math Building, 182 George St, Room 118. Wednesday, November 2, 8:30 - 9:30 am Monday, November 7, 5:30 - 6:30 pm Thursday, November 10, 8:30 - 9:30 am Please contact community@brown.edu or 863-3717 with questions.

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East Side Monthly October 2016

What is the Providence Cultural Equity Initiative? PCEI is a cultural diversity consulting firm founded by 2016 Rhode Island Foundation Innovation Fellow Raymond Two Hawks Watson. Its goal is to develop Rhode Island’s cultural sector as an economic driver for the state and a way to foster social cohesion. It is based on the idea that Rhode Island’s history, heritage and diversity are its greatest assets. The PCEI incorporates several programs and projects: Cultural Equity Think Tank This committee will provide research and expertise to develop the cultural sector in Rhode Island and advocate for initiatives and programming that promote our heritage and diversity. Cultural Guidebook PCEI and AS220 have been working since 2015 to compile the definitive roadmap to Rhode Island’s authentic cultural experiences. It will serve as a guidebook for both locals and tourists alike. International Indigenous People’s Cultural Conference This annual gathering brings together cultural practitioners and representatives from around the world in the interest of cultivating and preserving indigenous heritage. The first conference was held in April in partnership with Roger Williams University’s Providence campus, and focused on the Taino people of Puerto Rico. LivingCultureRI.com This web magazine will highlight the traditional and contemporary expressions of New England’s cultural communities. New England Native American Culture Week Launched by Watson in 2009, this weeklong event is an educational and social celebration of Eastern Woodland American Indian culture. It is a partnership with Rhode Island College that will now fall under the PCEI banner. Sound Session This weeklong “genre-defying music and cultural festival” was presented by the Providence Black Repertory Company and the City’s Department of Art, Culture + Tourism from 2004-10. Working with Sound Session/ Black Rep founder Donald King as its Chief Creative Officer, PCEI will revive the festival in fall of 2017.

Watson hopes his plans to develop the state’s cultural sector will be widely embraced

and Community Investments, who oversees the Innovation Fellowship program, seconds that vote of confidence: “Ray is dynamic, diligent and determined. His passion and preparation, and his focus on promoting Rhode Island’s cultural diversity as the asset that it is, resonated with the [selection] panel.”

From Role Model to Community Leader Watson earned his reputation as a community leader in Mount Hope, where he grew up and served as Executive Director of the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association (MHNA) from 2006 until this year. His presence in the neighborhood is unmistakable, both in the figurative and physical sense. Watson is tall and wiry, often sporting a Mohawk, and his voice booms even in casual conversation. He seems to be everywhere in Mount Hope and have a personal connection to every person he passes. In his role at MHNA, he was the de facto mayor of the neighborhood, organizing activities, advocating for justice and equality in a poor, predominantly African-American community, rallying neighbors around causes like the Billy Taylor House, and remaining a highly visible presence for the youth growing up on the same streets that he did. “To me it’s important to be a tangible role model – not one who comes by every once in a while and writes a check, but someone they see at the corner store,” he notes. He’s never been shy about speaking truth to power or demanding action on behalf of his community. For example, after a spate of deadly violence in the summer of 2014, Watson organized A Community Call to Action, gathering community leaders and about 100 people at Billy Taylor Park, where he publicly questioned the City’s commitment to ending youth violence, arguing that it must invest in the community’s efforts to help itself. Yet he balances that big personality with a humility and integrity that allow him to be the loudest person in the room without crowding out other voices. “Ray’s often viewed as force and fire, which can intimidate the status quo, but I know him enough to recognize that his actions

October 2016 East Side Monthly

“

The Place

i h s u S r Fo

My idea is centered around highlighting the culture as a natural resource to be utilized, and as an opportunity to educate and inform the general public about marginalized cultural communities. -Raymond Two Hawks Watson

”

and words are rooted in love,” explains Mike Ritz, Executive Director of Leadership Rhode Island, who is also working with Watson on PCEI.

Another Community Tie While Mount Hope remains central to Watson’s life and story, his ties to another Rhode Island community make him uniquely suited to be an advocate for the state’s cultural heritage: the Narragansett people. Watson is Chief of the Mashapaug Nahaganset Tribe, which is based in Providence. His personal explorations of his indigenous ancestry have manifested in this work: he is one of the founders of the Eastern Medicine Singers, a traveling Algonquin drum group, and one of the organizers of the annual Big Drum Powwow at the Roger Williams National Memorial. In 2009, he launched New England Native American Culture Week, dedicated to showcasing the region’s indigenous heritage. That search for his roots helped inspire the Providence Cultural Equity Initiative, but he was far from home when the idea truly took shape. While on honeymoon with his wife, Jenny Hernandez, in Mexico, Watson was able to explore that country’s native cultures and the way they’re presented to the world. “I got the chance to see how Mexico uses heritage to honor history and make people aware of civilizations,” he recalls. “They do a tremendous job with culture – not only honoring it, but using it to draw people to them. Why can’t we do that? I know that what we have here would resonate on an international level. It might sound far-fetched to some – but stuff always sounds far-fetched until it gets done.”

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The plans for PCEI are wide-ranging (see sidebar) and as much about promoting equity as tourism. “My idea is centered around highlighting the culture as a natural resource to be utilized, and as an opportunity to educate and inform the general public about marginalized cultural communities,” Watson explains. “Everyone has a culture. Everyone has some experience of struggle. If you get a bunch of people together to both learn and share, anything can happen.” The Innovation Fellowship is a big step for a leader who has been accustomed to his work going relatively unheralded. The program was launched by the Rhode Island Foundation in 2012 as a way to make bold investments in innovative ideas that could “dramatically improve an area of life in Rhode Island.” In a sense the Fellowship is Rhode Island’s answer to the MacArthur “genius grant”: it’s an unrestricted, multiyear investment that brings a fair amount of money and attention. Past fellows have included David Dadekian of EatDrinkRI, who is working to build a permanent central marketplace for local food, and Dr. Lynn Taylor, who is trying to make Rhode Island the first state to eradicate Hepatitis C. Watson, who is the first person of color to win an Innovation Fellowship, has typically shied away from seeking accolades or awards, but many of his friends and supporters see this opportunity as a long time coming. “When I met Ray [years ago] he was doing this kind of work,” says Cliff Wood, Executive Director of the Downtown Providence Parks Conservancy, who advised Watson on his proposal for the PCEI. “Now that the recognition has caught up to him he will able to broaden the impact to the entire state.” Mike Ritz, who is serving as Director of Cultural Food Initiatives for PCEI, also sees the focus on highlighting Rhode Island’s diversity as a way to get its citizens more engaged. “When everyone recognizes that they contribute to a unified narrative of who we are in Rhode Island, then they will invest in it now and in the future,” he says. “Having ownership and accountability within a place gets us more actively involved in it.” If Watson has his way, both residents and visitors will have a better understanding of Rhode Island’s contribution to world culture and heritage. “Why are we always the biggest little state?” he wonders. “Our impact on this world has been cataclysmic: Roger Williams establishing freedom of religion, the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution. We’re the innovators. We’re the ones who change things. I’m asking everyone to help do that again with culture. If everyone takes a moment to embrace this project and make it their own, I think we’re in for a fantastic future in this little place called Rhode Island.”

Bigger Than a Parade Pronk aims to connect local art with community activism By Tony Pacitti • Photos courtesy of Small Frye Photography

From the first drum roll to the final trumpet blast, Pronk is a wild celebration of music, art and community

The Providence Waterfront has been getting more attention than ever lately, but for nearly a decade, it has belonged to Pronk on the second Monday of October. Anyone who’s been can tell you why: it’s a wild day of high energy street music, but just calling it a marching band festival misses the point. Pronk, short for Providence Honk Festival, is a platform where performance and social activism can come together. If you’ve never been – clear your schedule now – the day starts in Burnside Park. The parade, which staggers bands and community organizations, marches from downtown towards the East Side by way of South Water Street, where ultimately it settles along the waterfront. The festival continues on into the night, ending with a powerful, can’t-miss performance by Providence’s own What Cheer? Brigade underneath the 195 overpass. For spectators, it may all seem like effortlessly organized chaos, but this kind of spectacle doesn’t just happen overnight. For the volunteers who make it all happen, Pronk is an all-consuming endeavor that starts in earnest in March, kicks into high gear in August and doesn’t actually wind down until weeks after the crowds have dispersed. This year, performers are coming from as far as the West Coast and France. There’s art to make for the community and activist groups that march in the parade. Sure, Pronk is a hell of a party, but it’s also about standing up for what’s right for the community. With a great party comes great responsibility. The Crossroads of Art and Activism “I’m interested in finding ways to weave visual art, theater and music into current social movements, and have those struggles steer what we’re creating,” says Beth Nixon, who has been a part of the Pronk planning committee for the last several years. Specifically, she helps different activist and community groups create visually dynamic pieces of art to use in the parade and in their own demonstrations. “Artists and activists need to be in conversation with each

other. Some of us are both, and this is an opportunity to join forces.” On the one hand, having activists and community groups demonstrate serves the logistic purpose of spacing out the bands so that their performances don’t bleed into one another. On the other, advocating for justice and social change has long been a part of Pronk’s DNA – hence its annual declaration that it is not a Columbus Day parade – and the parade has always been open to groups looking to raise awareness for their causes. Those groups have included but are certainly not limited to the Providence Student Union, RI Latino Arts and Sojourner House. They have taken Pronk up on its commitment to support groups advocating for social change, but Pronk has never rallied behind any one specific cause, until this year. A Defining Issue of The Times “We’ve always wanted it to be more than just a street party and about entertainment. We’ve wanted it to be more connected to social activism and shining the light on different people and communities in the city, but we haven’t always known the best way to do that,” says Avi David, who volunteers as a member of the Pronk planning committee. “For a long time, one of the things that was both celebrated by some and criticized by others is that it wasn’t really about any one thing,” Nixon says. “It’s time to put some of that parade energy and peoplepower behind grassroots organizing that affects all of us. [It’s] necessary, especially given the current political landscape.” That something is the Community Safety Act (CSA). According to its website (ProvidenceCommunitySafetyAct.Wordpress.com), the CSA is a “comprehensive city ordinance to ban racial profiling and change the way that police interact with members of our community, especially young people, immigrants and people of color.” Spearheaded by the Step Up Coalition – composed of the Providence Youth Student Movement (PrYSM), Direct Action for Rights

and Equality (DARE), American Friends Service Committee and the Olneyville Neighborhood Association – the CSA is the local response to the actions of police officers nationally and right here in Providence towards members of minority communities. The CSA calls for what its supporters firmly believe are common sense measures, including the use of standardized encounter forms, recording of encounters by police and a public list of criteria for placing a person on a gang list. “Pronk will enable us to reach a wider audience that we wouldn’t normally reach. Obviously there’s support on the South Side and West End and areas where you have police brutality and harassment, but we don’t really have that kind of [support on the East Side],” explains Vanessa Flores-Maldonado, campaign coordinator for the CSA. “We’re pushing for this bill because police and community relations in Providence need to be fixed, and until there’s accountability for police that isn’t going to happen.” Pronk’s support of the CSA shouldn’t be too surprising given that the symbiotic relationship between street music and social justice have been a part of its foundation from its earliest iterations. Not to mention that most of the bands that have participated over the years are, according to David, “community based bands that are often involved in community organizing and education, partnering with nonprofit organizations and using music for some sort of social good.” What makes this year different is the extent to which Pronk is throwing its collective weight behind what it feels to be one of the defining issues of our time. In addition to advocating for the CSA during the festival, Pronk is working with the Step Up Coalition before and after the festival to promote the bill through teach-ins and community outreach. “We want to be able to show how things that you think are just a part of everyday life are actually a form of harassment,” explains Flores-Maldonado. “We want to reach a wider audience that normally doesn’t engage or chooses not to engage with this type of work and make them engage with it.”

October 2016 East Side Monthly

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Educational programs are being implemented at Trinity Academy for the Performing Arts (TAPA), such as studying the bill’s language in English classes and examining the symbiotic history of music, parades and social movements in dance and music classes. TAPA students will also be hands-on with several aspects of the festival as performers, organizers and parade marshals. Pronk has also thrown its support behind the Coalition for Safer Rhodes campaign, which advocates for immigrants rights and drivers licenses for people regardless of their immigration status. In mid-September,

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East Side Monthly October 2016

A big part of Pronk’s “anything goes” appeal are the impromptu sets that pop up around Kennedy Plaza

Pronk worked with the Coalition for Safer Rhodes for a teach-in and art-build to get the work out and assemble pieces for a march on September 25. Safer Rhodes will also be joining Pronk on October 10. If Pronk is to ever expand it won’t be into a multi-day festival like the Honk events in Boston or New York. But the idea of lending their knowledge and resources to activist groups all year long is one possible future he sees for the organization. “We do constantly think about what it would mean if Pronk shifted into a year-long project and organization that really works to build bridges between the arts and activist communities,” says David. At the time this issue went to press, the Step Up Coalition had submitted a second petition to have a public hearing heard for the CSA. It is their hope that a public show of support at the hearing could bring it to a vote, which would require the support of eight City Council members to be approved. “[The CSA] is about race, definitely, but it’s about much more than that,” says Flores-Maldonado. “It’s about race, our youth, it’s about lack of resources in our community. This bill is our way of trying to fix things in our community. It’s a step.” “I’m hopeful that Pronk’s affirmation that this work is important to us is not polarizing, but is instead uniting and educational for people who don’t know about it yet,” says Nixon. “It’s not a protest, it’s an affirmation.” Regardless of how any vote on the CSA turns out, Pronk will be a celebration of our city’s creative energy – five of this year’s bands, What Cheer? Brigade, Extraordinary Rendition Band, Kickin’ Brass, Blackout Drum Squad and The Steel Pan Ensemble from the Rhody Center for World Music are from Providence – and of the students, citizens, artists and change makers coming together. Everyone involved hopes that the passing of the CSA can be a part of that celebration, but if not they’re ready to continue fighting for something bigger than a parade.

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October 2016 Dear Neighbors, It is a great privilege to represent extremely thoughtful and informed individuals like yourselves. You have listened when I’ve taken positions that may have seemed surprising or disappointing. Thank you for supporting me while I’ve challenged the status quo and questioned legislation that, though well intended, could have unintended consequences. In 1993, during my first year in office, I began the quest to repeal RI’s sodomy law. At the time, I received negative feedback, snickers and leers, but residents of this district believe that all of us have, as consenting adults, the right to privacy in our own bedrooms. You understood that the sodomy law had the potential to ruin the lives of members of the LGBTQ community During my first term, legislation was introduced (in response to a scandal regarding a highly paid teachers’ union executive), to eliminate the state pension eligibility of all employees of the teachers’ unions. Many people who had worked for the union for years stood to lose the pensions on which their retirement plans depended. Because I had sworn to uphold our constitution and believed this bill was an unconstitutional taking of personal property, I voted in the small minority against it. In RI Federal District Court, Judge Raymond J. Pettine ruled the law unconstitutional. For the last 2 years, I’ve sponsored the Lila Sapinsley Compassionate Care Act, often referred to as an assistedsuicide bill. The intent of this legislation- modeled after laws passed in California, Washington, Vermont and Oregon-is to allow terminally ill individuals to have some control over the way they die. The bill would allow an individual to selfadminister a drug prescribed by their doctor in order to avoid prolonged, extreme pain or drug-induced coma at the end of their life. In 2015, a bill was introduced aiming to protect children from sex offenders, requiring offenders to live more than 1000 feet from schools, an increase of 700 feet. It did not distinguish between levels of offense or take into account victim’s age. The legislation did not prevent sex offenders from being near a school. In the Judiciary Committee

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continued from previous page hearing, I asked whether there were maps showing the proposed boundary lines around schools; there were none. I voted NO because the bill offered no increased protection for children but complicated community re-entry for offenders. After the bill became law, a Providence Journal article showed there are “just a few slivers of the city left” where ex-offenders could live. Only one shelter in RI could accept ex-offenders who are homeless. The law is presently held up in RI Federal Court. In the past legislative session, I voted alone against the “revenge porn” bill. The bill did not contain any requirement that the material that had been made public had caused harm or was published with the intent to cause harm. under the bill, anyone who shared an image of nudity or explicit sexual conduct could be prosecuted. When Governor Raimondo vetoed the bill, she encouraged legislators to do better at crafting a law to punish and discourage revenge porn. I’m with her. I’m also with you. I want to again thank you for the opportunity to represent you. Thank you for listening when I question legislation that sounds good on its face. We may not always agree, but I will always listen. Please don’t hesitate to email me at edithajello@gmail.com or call me at home at 274-7078. I want to continue listening and fighting the good fights. Please vote for me on November 8th.

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East Side Monthly October 2016

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Finding the Perfect Rental Lila Delman Real Estate International helps people find their dream apartments Providence has been getting quite a lot of positive attention in the last few years. According to Bon Appetit, we’ve got one of this year’s best new restaurants in the country. Travel + Leisure thinks we’re America’s Coolest City. Even The New York Times named us one of 52 Places to Go in 2016 in the entire world. Even big, national companies are moving to the area: GE announced plans earlier this year, and there are big rumors about Paypal and a certain empty downtown skyscraper. That well-deserved attention is bringing more and more people to the city. While we definitely welcome new talent, we also have a bit of a difficult situation in finding quality rental properties in and around Providence. Our vacancy rate is around 4%, much lower than the national average of about 10%. It can be a challenge to find a great place to live, especially if you’re shopping for an apartment while not living in the area. While Lila Delman Real Estate International is mostly known for helping people buy and sell dream homes, the agency can also help you find your dream apartment home. “We have rental access on each website already,” says Lila Delman Real Estate International Sales Agent David Hackett. “But we’re building an expansive inventory, working with the best landlords and management companies in the greater Providence area.” He focuses primarily on helping people find high quality apartments in and around the city. “I’ve been in the rental side of real estate since 2009,” he says. “I’ve seen the best and the worst, so I really know what to look for. Most are good, but it’s important to help clients avoid the bad ones.” Anyone who has shopped for an apartment online knows that it can be a challenging process.

Many apartments look different in person than they do in pictures, and not every listing is completely trustworthy. “Craigslist can be a wonderful tool for many things, including sometimes rental housing, but it’s not heavily managed,” David says. This is where Lila Delman Real Estate International can help renters, by bringing their same level of excellence in the real estate sales market to the rental market. “We can bring that same level of service that we’ve brought to luxury home sales in Rhode Island to tenants and landlords in Rhode Island,” says agent and Providence manager Ken Schadegg. “If someone comes to us for a rental, the Lila Delman Real Estate International brand is stamped on that rental. No one else is providing the quality assurance that people can have faith in. There’s a lot of wild goose chasing in Providence with rentals.” The rental division will offer the highest quality listings available at all price points, and will work with both potential tenants and landlords. One unique feature that Lila Delman offers is online floor plans and video tours of apartments on their website, a feature that realtors normally reserve for homes for sale. “Normally someone who’s looking to buy a house would sit in front of a computer screen and see videos and virtual tours,” Ken says. “In the Providence market, that never happens for rental units.” It’s a feature that’s especially helpful for people moving from out of state, or out of the country, who can’t easily see apartments in person. “They really do benefit greatly from an advocate or guide,” David says. It’s true for every person looking for a new home, whether buying or renting, local or not. Let the Lila Delman Real Estate International team help you find the apartment home of your dreams in Providence.

Offices in Providence • Newport Jamestown • Narragansett Watch Hill • Block Island

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• Our Annual Halloween Short Story •

Beautymaker

and and the the

Beast

One wrong move on Halloween has deadly consequences By James Arthur Anderson • Illustrated by Allison Blackwell

ill woke up to the mother of all headaches, which was just one symptom of the mother of all hangovers. He cautiously opened one eye and, from the slim ray of light that was edging its way through the blinds, he estimated that it was somewhere between 10am and noon. Thank God it was Sunday morning and he didn’t have to do anything except suffer. He was vaguely aware of a naked body spooning against his, but he had no idea whom it belonged to. It was definitely female, at least, and he was reasonably sure that whoever it belonged to was quite attractive. He must have had a good time last night – an incredible time, in fact. He closed his eyes and tried to remember. Most of it was a blur, but he did recall going to a Halloween party in some bar on Thayer Street. He’d dressed up as a mad scientist. Halloween fell on a Monday this year, so all of the best parties had been on Saturday night. He’d been anxious and depressed and lonely – par for the course – and so had obviously drank way too much. Somehow, though, he’d managed to pick up a woman and take her back to his apartment. He reached his hand back and touched what felt to be a very attractive hip. The parts of her body that were touching his felt soft and squishy in all the right places, and if it hadn’t been for the misery of this hangover, he would have become immediately excited. Her left hand was wrapped around him, and he took a moment to look at it: long, slender fingers with painted nails, light pink, which he liked, and no wedding or engagement ring. A sweet, soothing, melodic voice said “good morning,” and then she squeezed him close to her with both arms. Yes, indeed, he must have had a very good night this

East Side Monthly October 2016

Halloween. You’d think that a board-certified plastic surgeon would have the ladies lined up at his door. With his thinning hair, squeaky voice and belly that was going to pot no matter how much he tried to diet. He spent most of his nights and weekends alone, dreaming and wishing for something better. “Good morning,” he responded. And for the first time in a long time, it was, headache and hangover be damned. He struggled to recall the woman’s name and came up empty. He did remember something about there being a karaoke machine and a woman with a voice that would have stunned the judges on any reality TV singing show, but the rest was just a blur. The woman patted him gently and untangled herself from their embrace. “I have to use the bathroom,” she said. He watched as she walked past the foot of the bed and padded away toward the bathroom. Yes, the silhouette of her body looked like something out of a men’s magazine, slender yet soft in all the right places. He couldn’t have sculpted it better himself. Her black hair flowed down over her shoulders, hiding most of her face until she stopped and turned slightly towards him. “Do you have coffee?” she asked, in that angelic voice that made his knees weak. But when the dim light caught her face, he suddenly shuddered, and then he realized that she had forgotten to remove the mask or make-up or whatever it was she’d been wearing to the costume party. Her face was block-like, with a very low forehead and thick eyebrows that made her look like a troll. Her nose looked like it had been chiseled from a granite slab, and the stonecutter had stopped his chipping much too soon.

“Ah, yeah,” he said. “I’ll make some.” She nodded, stepped into the bathroom and closed the door. God, how drunk was I to have sex with her before she even took off that hideous make-up, he thought. But now she’d take off the make-up and they would get to know one another on a different level. “Hey, what did you say your name was, again?” she asked from behind the bathroom door. Her voice was really exquisite. “Somehow, I forgot.” “It’s Bill. And yours? I forgot, too.” She giggled. “It’s Anna,” she replied, and he heard the sound of the shower being turned on. “I sure had a great time last night. Even if I didn’t win the best costume prize.” Then she began to sing “Caledonia” in the shower, an old Celtic ballad that was one of his favorites. Yes, now he seemed to remember. The karaoke singer had been dressed as a troll. The bathroom door opened just as he was pouring the coffee, and she stepped out, wearing his white terrycloth bathrobe and with her hair tied up and back. That’s when he realized that she hadn’t been wearing either make-up or a mask. Her face really was that of a troll. He dropped the coffee cup on the floor, almost scalding himself in the process. “You’re a… you’re a troll!” He couldn’t help it. He just blurted it out. She furrowed her already thick brows and looked at him hard. “I knew it,” she said. “I knew you’d be a dick. Yeah, I’m a troll. I told you that last night. But that didn’t bother you when you took me to bed.”

“Then we…” “Twice.” “I… I didn’t know.” “I told you everything. Full disclosure. You just laughed it off and took me to bed. Carried me in, as I recall. As a matter of fact, the only reason I didn’t eat you was because you were so sweet. Though I’m rather hungry now and may reconsider.” She bared her rather formidable teeth. “No, No! Don’t eat me.” He backed away, trying to keep from slipping on the coffee he’d spilled. “Have… have some coffee and let’s talk this through.” She laughed, and now it was a calming, soothing laugh. It made him almost want to forget about the hideous face that was staring at him as if he were a prey animal. “I’m not going to eat you,” she said. “At least not until I get my morning caffeine fix.” Bill couldn’t exactly tell if she were joking or being serious. He poured her a cup of coffee. “How do you take it?” “Black.” “So… you really are a troll? I think I might have been too drunk to understand last night.”

She swallowed a huge gulp of coffee and then looked at him for a moment. Her eyes were very pretty. Deep and black with gold flecks. “All right. I’ll go over it again. Full disclosure, like I said. Then I’ll drink my coffee, get dressed and leave. I should have known better than to come here…” “I’m sorry. Please. Just tell me again.” “Yeah. I’m a troll. Not full-blooded, though. Half human. I guess the human part is from the neck down.” She shrugged but didn’t laugh. “Don’t trolls live under bridges?” “My family used to live under the old Red Bridge until they tore it down. Now there’s a highway where it used to be. It’s too noisy to live under so we moved to the old railroad bridge, but they tore that down, too. The bridge over the interstate was moved, but that one’s way too crowded and congested anyway. There must be a hundred trolls living under that thing now, and being half human, I’m not really welcome.” “So where did you go? Where do you stay?” “Most of the city bridges have been taken over by the homeless guys. Some of them are pretty scary so I mostly live in alleys now. I tend to sleep in the day and cruise the bars at night, especially the ones where the light’s not so good.” Her voice really was beautiful. Enchanting, even. The more he looked at her, the more he realized that she wasn’t even homely. Plain, perhaps. Just kind of average. But with an eyebrow trim, and a little taken off the nose, she might even be attractive. Maybe he could do some reconstruction on her forehead. Move her hairline back just a little. Hell, he’d done some work on one young lady who had been shot in the face, and she’d become a model. “So, you don’t really eat people, do you? I mean, that’s just a myth, right?” “I only eat people who annoy me or insult me,” she said, and he didn’t think she was kidding this time. “I prefer raw chicken. I like the gizzards best.” “You know,” he said, “I like you. With a little work, I think I could make you beautiful.” “What do you mean?” Her eyes were narrowing again, but he didn’t really notice. “I’m a cosmetic surgeon. A damned good one, too, if

I do say so myself.” “I don’t understand. What is a cosmetic surgeon?” “You wouldn’t believe the things we can do these days. I could turn you from a troll into a woman. I’d start with that nose of yours….” She leaped across the table with the speed of a jaguar and before he could say another word her delicate hands with the pink painted fingernails were around his throat, pressing and squeezing with a strength he would never had imagined. He tried to speak but could only gag and choke. “So, I’m an ugly troll, am I? A grotesque, hideous monster that you want to fix. Last night when you took me home I thought you were interested in me, for me, and not for how I looked. I told you everything and you just laughed and gave me this line about beauty being only skin deep, and how real beauty came from the inside. And I believed you. For the first time, I thought I’d finally found someone who would care about me. But that was all a lie. All you care about is how I look.” He tried to speak, tried to tell her how he really did like her, how he really was lonely and needed someone, and he really was trying to help. But she was choking him so hard that nothing would come out. “I told you, I only eat people who annoy me or insult me. And you have done both. So now I’ll have you for breakfast, my Billy goat gruff.” Even as she screamed at him, her voice was stunning. What a shame, he thought as he felt her formidable teeth crunch into his biceps. She’s model material. With a few touch ups, a nick here and a tuck there, she could be on the runway. And with her voice… he could see a Grammy in her future, once he’d fixed her up. He closed his eyes for the last time, dizzy and enchanted by her exquisite voice as she bit off a chunky piece of his arm and drooled his blood down her pockmarked chin. James Arthur Anderson teaches writing and literature at Johnson & Wales University’s North Miami Campus. His annual Halloween story has been an East Side Monthly tradition for as long as he can remember. His latest book, Stephen King’s Truth Within the Lie: a Critical Study of America’s Favorite Boogeyman, has been accepted for publication by MacFarland Press.

October 2016 East Side Monthly

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Ivy Tavern The Waterman Grille presents a vibrant culinary experience on Providence’s East Side. Its ageless brick texture, restored wood patinas, and covered stone patio create a comforting ambiance for friends, family, and colleagues to enjoy a casual meal of distinctively seasonal selections. Executive Chef Noah Metnick personally oversees the creation of Waterman’s unique menus, keeping close to his culinary philosophy of using fresh, local produce and flavors enhanced by the rustic elements of a wood-fire grill. He describes Waterman’s menu as “a good mix of classic comfort style dishes and some that are a little more composed and complex that use more modern elements and techniques as well”. For example, the calamari, fried and tossed with fresh herbs, Romano cheese and balsamic vinegar, is a customer favorite, yet so is the grilled octopus appetizer with chourico, cucumber-jalapeno relish, dried olives, and cumin-lime crema. The collective menu, served daily, late-afternoon into the evening, includes soups, salads, shared plates

and main entrees. Options to indulge in may include the Waterman salad of local organic greens, shaved vegetables, fresh herbs, sunflower seeds, and lemon-thyme vinaigrette or the chilled yellow beet velouté with mint yogurt, watercress and toasted pumpkin seeds. Truly the choices are varied and present a colorful dining affair, complemented with an exceptional list of boutique wines and craft beers, and sweetened with an array of heavenly house-made desserts Known for its innovative menus and attentive service, Waterman also opens its doors for Saturday and Sunday brunch. During the week, specials include half-price appetizers in the bar and the scrumptious craft burger and beer pairing every Thursday. In addition, set in one of the most beautiful waterfront locations of the city, the restaurant is host to exquisite social gatherings for up to 100 people. Varied in its reasons to visit as its culinary imagination, there are many things extraordinary about this cozy hidden gem, and you are sure to love them all.

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East Side Monthly October 2016

On the tOwn

Restaurant and Food | Dining Guide | Calendar of events

Flavor of the Month

Made to Order Meet executive Chef Ignacio Gonzales, the man behind those colossal cookies at Meeting Street Cafe By Erin Balsa

Photography by Brian DeMello

Famous for serving breakfast all day long as well as the largest, most colossal cookies this side of the Mississippi, Meeting Street Cafe has been filling the bellies of hungry East Side residents, students and visitors since 1984. Executive Chef Ignacio Gonzales has been working at the establishment for 17 years after moving here from Guatemala in 1999. He prepares every dish with love and care, taste testing each recipe himself to ensure it’s just right before adding it to the menu and preparing it for his guests. Owner David Mcallister says Gonzales is like family and credits him with helping expand his business. Here Ignacio talks about catering to requests, using fresh, wholesome ingredients and the cafe’s new fall offerings.

What’s your motto when it comes to cooking? Always prepare and serve the best food and you have to work as a team to get the job done. The other day a guy came in and asked for chicken parm, which isn’t on the menu. He really wanted it. So I made him chicken parm and he was so excited. Another person came in wanting chicken alfredo and I made that for him even though it’s not on the menu either. For me, cooking isn’t about the money – it’s about making people happy. We also offer gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options so there’s something for everyone. Are there breakfast dishes you go back to time and time again? There are several. The Breakfast Skillet, which is served with sausage,

Chef Ignacio Gonzales is the man behind the enormous cookies at Meeting Street Cafe

tomatoes, peppers, onion, mushrooms and home fries and two eggs on top, the house made Corned Beef Hash and the Lobster Benedict with homemade Hollandaise sauce. Sounds fantastic. What should we be having for lunch and dinner? For lunch or dinner, have the Fish and Chips or the Healthy Salmon Plate, which is great for the health conscious person. It comes with steamed vegetables and white rice. Our most popular dish is the Grilled Chicken Club. It’s chicken breast with bacon and mayonnaise on toasted wheat bread. Other popular menu items are the Wild Salmon Skillet, the Chicken Shish Kabob and the Chicken and Vegetables Plate. People also love the Thanksgiving Sandwich with hot turkey, house made stuffing, mayo and cranberry sauce. Tell me about your famous colossal cookies. We have ten flavors: chocolate chunk, garbage, oatmeal raisin, peanut chocolate chunk, sugar, chewy chocolate, macadamia white chocolate, oatmeal chocolate chip, ginger spice and peanut butter. I make them fresh every day. Well, every

day but Wednesday. That’s my day off and I spend it with my three-year-old daughter. When people first see the cookies they say they’re expensive. When they try them they say, “Oh, it’s so good!” and they always come back for another one. Do you have any new dishes up your sleeve for fall? A Crab Cake Benedict. I’ll deep fry the crab and serve it on an English muffin with a poached egg and Hollandaise sauce. I’m also doing a Seafood Pasta with shrimp, clams and swordfish. I enjoy trying new recipes so there will probably be some other fall specials too. Name five items that can always be found in your fridge at home? Steak, salmon, haddock, shrimp and a lot of fresh vegetables. If I was stranded on a desert island and could only eat one thing I’d choose salmon – or any seafood really.

Meeting Street Cafe 220 Meeting Street 273-1066 MeetingStreetCafe.com October 2016 East Side Monthly

On the town On the Menu

Pomodoro in Providence

Pasta Beach opens in the former Runcible Spoon space By Grace Lentini

Wayland Square is home to Pasta Beach’s third location

Three authentic Italian restaurants were not in the cards when Susie Ropolo met her husband Gianni at a party in Milan. At the time, Ropolo was a model, flown in by her agency after appearing in Mademoiselle magazine. The two were smitten, married soon after, then moved to Gianni’s hometown, Torino, in Italy. Because neither wanted to cook, they frequented a trattoria down the street from them. “The more we dined there, the more I became enthusiastic about Italian cuisine,” she says. “I was getting more curious, ordering something other than my usual Spaghetti Pomodoro on our nightly survival dining dates.” With every month came new specials according to the season. There were artichokes with fresh olive oil and shaved Parmesan, eggplant with scamorza cheese and truffles lightly dusting a steaming plate of risotto. Ropolo also began to understand how the same dish, like pesto, can be made a number of different ways depending on the region. “When you are in Portofino, pesto is called Genovese,” she says. “It has the Portofino touch, with potatoes and string beans. In Sicily it’s called Pesto Trapanese, with added tomatoes.”

It’s with this inspiration that the Ropolos have opened their much-anticipated third Pasta Beach location in Wayland Square (the other two are in Newport and Boston). In keeping with their passion for regionally inspired cuisine, they’ve brought on chefs from Torino, Bologna, Tuscany and Sicily. The chefs are passionate about retaining the authenticity in their cuisine, so you won’t be finding spaghetti and meatballs on the menu. Similarly, you won’t find a chef at Pasta Beach who’ll place a piece of chicken on top of the pasta, but they will place it on the side if requested. Staying as close as possible to traditional Italian cooking is the goal, and that’s clear from the Bolognese, Pesto, Carbonara and even the wood-fired pizza. Another tradition that looks like it’s here to stay is Ropolo’s favorite dish, after all these years it’s still Spaghetti Pomodoro. “A plate of pasta can be prepared in ten minutes,” she explains. “A few tomatoes, authentic olive oil and a little salt tossed and served with real Parmesan cheese and a fresh basil leaf on top of the spaghetti swirl is the best thing in the world.” 195 Wayland Avenue. 2700740, PastaBeachRestaurants.com

Class Appeal

Bao Down

If you’re a bit gun shy and aren’t quite sure how to cook with the seasons, Chef Sara Mohoney will lend a helping hand – or knife – at her cooking classes at The Olive Tap. On October 8 from 2:304:30pm, she’ll be instructing folks on using honey from Products of the Hive. She’ll demonstrate how to The Olive Tap is hosting cooking make Sticky Bourbon and classes on October 8 and 22 Honey Salmon, Bourbon soaked fig tart with honey mascarpone and glazed pork belly and a bourbon bread pudding. On October 22 from 2:30-4:30pm, learn how to cook and bake with beer. On the menu that night are jalapeño stuffed pretzel bites with IPA cheese sauce, amber spiked beef stew and stout donut holes with a maple bourbon glaze. All you need is a hearty appetite and a thirst for some foodie knowledge. 485 Angell Street. 272-8200, TheOliveTapProvidence.com

In a town that drools over every new restaurant opening, a long-awaited addition is finally opening this month: Tom’s BaoBao. Tom’s is inhabiting the space next to The Malted Barley, and focuses strictly on bao. Bao (bao bao or baozi) is a Chinese steamed bun that is similar in shape to a dumpling, but much larger in size with a softer, fluffier dough. There are tons of varietThese Juicy Pork steamed dumplings (bao) ies of bao in China, and Tom’s is makfrom Tom’s BaoBao are filled with pork, scaling a variation popular in Shanghai. lion and ginger “Our two most traditional bao offerings are the Vegetarian and Juicy Pork Bao,” says CEO and founder Tom Tong. “The Vegetarian is made with bok choy, shitake mushrooms and fried tofu, and is very popular in China for breakfast and lunch. The Juicy Pork is a delicacy in China, and our most popular item. Either of these flavors would make a great introduction to the world of bao.” They’ve even made a special bao to commemorate their arrival in New England: the seasonal Lobster Bao. Most of all, Tong and his team are excited to introduce diners to something new and hope that they will come in, ask questions and eat it until they are as crazy about bao as they are. 326 Westminster Street. TomsBaoBao.com

East Side Monthly October 2016

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October 2016 East Side Monthly

Rebecca Mayer, Beth Mazor, and Kelly Zexter are

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East Side Monthly October 2016

RHODY BITES A Sponsored Statewide Dining Guide

View our full restaurant profiles on RhodyBites.com The Pizza Gourmet

The Catering Gourmet

The Pizza Gourmet isn’t your average pizzeria. The restaurant offers takeout and delivery of pasta dishes (made with fresh pasta from Venda Ravioli), salads and pizzas, including their pre-assembled take and bake pizzas. Think creations like the Quattro Mushroom, with portabella, crimini, oyster and shiitake mushrooms, with grilled onions, tomatoes, garlic cloves, gorgonzola and truffle oil; or Joanie’s Chicken-Roni, with roasted chicken, pepperoni, pink vodka sauce, mozzarella and basil. Yum!

The creative sensibility of The Pizza Gourmet extends to their full service catering company, The Catering Gourmet. “All our food is made from scratch,” says co-owner Dave Goulart, describing everything from pizza dough and sauce to soups, sauces, salad dressings and bread. “We often have fun and funky stations, like our signature wood grilled pizza station, where a chef is grilling fresh pizzas to order for guests.” he says. Dave loves the challenge of getting a unique request from a client and then finding a way to make it work.

Type of Food: The Pizza Gourmet: pizzas and pastas The Catering Gourmet: anything and everything clients can dream up

The Pizza Gourmet 357 Hope Street, Providence • 401-751-0355

The Catering Gourmet 333 Strawberry Field Road, Warwick • 401-773-7925 10 Prime Steak & Sushi Gourmet steaks and sushi. 55 Pine St, Providence, 4532333. LD $$$

The Pizza Gourmet and its catering arm The Catering Gourmet create their signature pizzas for any dinner or gathering

cuisine. 58 De Pasquale Ave, Providence, 274-2107. LD $$-$$$

Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 944-4900. BrLD $$$

Besos Kitchen & Cocktails Tapas and eclectic cuisine and cocktails. 378 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-8855. BrLD $$$

Catering Gourmet Premiere catering company providing food made from scratch. 333 Strawberry Field Rd, Warwick, 773-7925. $-$$$

Character’s Cafe & Theatre 82 Hybrid art space with all day breakfast, coffee and theatre-inspired entrees. 82 Rolfe Sq, Cranston, 490-9475. BL $

Black Bass Grille Classic seafood, historic waterfront setting. 3 Water St, South Dartmouth, 508-999-6975. LD $$

CAV Eclectic cuisine and art in an historic setting. 14 Imperial Pl, Providence, 751-9164. BrLD $$-$$$

Cucina Rustica Rustic, Italian-style dining combining comfort food and sophistication. 555 Atwood Ave, Cranston, 944-2500. LD $-$$

Blu On The Water Home to Rhode Island’s largest waterfront deck and three outdoor bars, with a wide menu and full raw bar. 20 Water St, East Greenwich, 885-3700. LD $-$$$

Centro Restaurant & Lounge Contemporary cuisine and cocktails. 1 W Exchange St, Providence, 228-6802. BLD $$$

Bluewater Bar and Grill Casual restaurant with modern seafood dishes, patio seating and live music. 32 Barton Ave, Barrington, 247-0017. LD $$-$$$ Breachway Grill Classic New England fare, plus NY-style pizza. 1 Charlestown Beach Rd, Charlestown, 213-6615. LD $$ Capri Swedish-influenced Mediterranean

Dante’s Kitchen American food with a Southern flair. 315 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-7798. BL $-$$

Chair 5 Locally sourced and seasonally inspired menus with a main restaurant and rooftop lounge. 1208 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, 363-9820. BrLD $-$$$

DeWolf Tavern Gourmet American/ Indian fusion. 259 Thames St, Bristol, 254-2005. BLD $$-$$$

Champlin’s Seafood Dockside fresh seafood serving easy breezy cocktails. 256 Great Island Rd, Narragansett, 783-3152. LD $-$$

Dragon Palace Chinese cuisine, sushi and bar. 577 Tiogue Ave, Coventry, 828-0100; 733 Kingstown Rd, Wakefield, 789-2300; 1210 Main St, Wyoming, 539-1102. LD $-$$

Chapel Grille Gourmet food overlooking the Providence skyline. 3000

Eleven Forty Nine City sophistication in the suburbs. 1149 Division St,

Warwick, 884-1149. LD $$$ Flatbread Company Artisanal pizza, local ingredients. 161 Cushing St, Providence, 273-2737. LD $-$$ Frankie’s Italian Bistro Fine dining with imported wines from around the world. 1051 Ten Rod Rd, North Kingstown, 295-2500. D $-$$$ Fresco Italian American comfort food with international inspirations. 301 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-0027; 140 Comstock Pkwy, Cranston, 2283901. D $-$$ George’s of Galilee Fresh caught seafood in an upscale pub atmosphere. 250 Sand Hill Cove Rd, Narragansett, 783-2306. LD $-$$ Harry’s Bar & Burger Handcrafted sliders, brews and pub games. 121 N Main St, Providence, 228-7437; 301 Atwells Ave, 228-3336. LD $-$$ Haruki Japanese cuisine and a la carte

Key: B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+

October 2016 East Side Monthly

RHODY BITES COnTInuED

selections with casual ambiance. Locations in Cranston and Providence. HarukiSushi.com LD $-$$ Ichigo Ichie Traditional Japanese cuisine, creative sushi and hibachi. 5 Catamore Blvd, East Providence, 435-5511. LD $-$$$ Iron Works Tavern A wide variety of signature American dishes in the historic Thomas Jefferson Hill Mill. 697 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, 739-5111. LD $-$$$ Jacky’s Galaxie Local Pan-Asian chain offering sushi and classic entrees in a modern atmosphere. Locations in Providence, North Providence, Bristol and Cumberland, JackysGalaxie.com. LD $-$$$ Jigger’s Diner Classic ‘50s diner serving breakfast all day. 145 Main St, East Greenwich, 884-6060. BL $-$$ Julian’s A must-taste Providence staple celebrating 20 years. 318 Broadway, Providence, 861-1770. BBrLD $$ La Masseria Upscale Italian cuisine served in a chic setting with a rustic, countryside vibe. 223 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-0693. LD $$-$$$ Luxe Burger Bar Build your own creative burger. 5 Memorial Blvd, Providence, 621-5893. LD $

Maharaja Indian Restaurant Indian cuisine and traditional curries in a warm setting. 1 Beach St, Narragansett, 3639988. LD $-$$

Italian fare and traditional New Yorkstyle pizzas. 100 East St, Cranston, 383-7722; 380 Atwells Ave, Providence, 273-2400. LD $-$$

Matunuck Oyster Bar Destination dining enhanced by a raw bar sourced onsite and a water view. 629 Succotash Rd, South Kingstown, 783-4202. LD $-$$$

Ocean House/Weekapaug Inn Multiple dining room options offer comfortably elegant dishes that highlight the best in seasonal, local produce. 1 Bluff Ave, Watch Hill, 584-7000, 25 Spray Rock Rd, Westerly, 637-7600. BLD $-$$$

McBride’s Pub Traditional Irish pub fare in Wayland Square. 161 Wayland Ave, Providence, 751-3000. LD $$ McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steak Mixed grill selections and signature fish dishes sourced locally and seasonally. 11 Dorrance St, Providence, 351-4500. BLD $$-$$$ Meeting Street Cafe BYOB eatery with large menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner served all day. 220 Meeting St, Providence, 273-1066. BLD $-$$ Mill’s Tavern Historic setting for New American gourmet. 101 N Main St, Providence, 272-3331. D $$$ Momo Dessert restaurant with crepes, home-made stir fry ice cream and bubble tea. 100 Washington St, Providence, 521-6666. BLD $ Napolitano’s Brooklyn Pizza Classic

Johnston, 273-1444. LD $-$$$ Phil’s Main Street Grille Classic comfort food with a great rooftop patio. 323 Main St, Wakefield, 783-4073. BBrLD $ Pizza J A fun, upbeat atmosphere with thin crust pizza, pub fare and glutenfree options. 967 Westminster St, Providence, 632-0555. LD $-$$

Ocean State Sandwich Company Craft sandwiches and hearty sides. 1345 Hartford Ave, Johnston. 155 Westminster St, Providence, 282-6772. BL $-$$

Red Ginger Traditional Chinese restaurant and bar with a relaxed environment. 560 Killingly St, Johnston, 861-7878; 1852 Smith St, North Providence, 353-6688. LD $-$$

Opa the Phoenician Authentic Lebanese food served in a fun atmosphere with hookahs. 230 Atwells Ave, Providence, 351-8282. D $-$$$

Red Stripe Casual French-American bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 4376950; 455 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2900. BrLD $$

Parkside Rotisserie & Bar American bistro specializing in rotisserie meats. 76 South Main St, Providence, 3310003. LD $-$$

Rick’s Roadhouse House-smoked barbecue. 370 Richmond St, Providence, 272-7675. LD $-$$

Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napoletana Authentic Neapolitan wood fired pizza with exclusive ingredients imported from Naples. 60 S County Commons Way, South Kingstown, 783-2900. LD $-$$ Pat’s Italian Fine Italian favorites, natural steaks and handcrafted cocktails. 1200 Hartford Ave,

Rocco’s Pub & Grub Five-star menu in an intimate, pub-like atmosphere. 55 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, 349-2250. LD $-$$ Rosmarin An elegant upscale restaurant featuring classic European-style cuisine with modern flair. 225A Westminster St, Providence, 400-5773. BLD $$$ Sa-Tang Fine Thai and Asian fusion

Worth The Drive:

Ichigo Ichie As soon as you

walk into the foyer of Ichigo Ichie, it’s clear you’re not in an average restaurant. Immediately greeted by a waterfall, a blue lit bar, dripping crystal curtains and other stunning design elements, the ultra modern restaurant prepares you for a one-ofa-kind dining experience. The large location, offers a square-shaped cocktail lounge, an intimate sushi bar, lively hibachi seating and an elegant dining room. The experience is just as diverse

– it’s a great place for a family-friendly dinner, a romantic date, a gathering for friends, a special occasion or a quick drink at the bar. Whether you come with a single guest or a party of 20, you’re bound to have a blast at the interactive hibachi tables. Chefs not only cook your meal right in front of you, they also keep you entertained. From masterful chopping and artistic food displays to generous squirts of sake, it’s always a fun and relaxed experience.

Insider Tip:

All kinds of diets and allergies can be accommodated, such as brown rice for sushi and gluten-free sushi

From hibachi to sushi, Ichigo Ichie is fun – and tasty – for the whole family

East Side Monthly October 2016

5 Catamore Boulevard, East Providence 401-435-5511

cuisine with gluten-free selections. 402 Main St, Wakefield, 284-4220. LD $-$$ Siena Impeccable Italian cuisine. Locations in Providence, East Greenwich, Smithfield, 521-3311. D $$-$$$ Spirito’s Restaurant & Catering Classic Italian fare served in a stately Victorian home. 477 Broadway, Providence, 4344435. LD $-$$$ Starbucks Coffee, tea, bakery items and lunch options. Multiple locations. Starbucks.com BL$-$$ T’s Restaurant Plentiful breakfast and lunch. Locations in Cranston, East Greenwich, Narragansett, TsRestaurantRI.com. BL $ Tavern by the Sea Waterfront European/American bistro. 16 W Main St, Wickford, 294-5771. LD $$ Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille Classic Italian cuisine with an extensive wine and beer list. 970 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, 349-4979. LD $-$$ The Coast Guard House Modern New England fare with Bay views. 40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, 789-0700. LD $$-$$$ The Crossings Shopping and restaurant plaza. 371 Putnam Pike, Smithfield, 232-8900. BLD $-$$$ The Dorrance Fine dining with exquisite cocktails. 60 Dorrance St, Providence, 521-6000. D $$$ The Grange Vegetarian restaurant serving seasonal dishes with a juice bar, vegan bakery and cocktail bar. 166 Broadway, Providence, 831-0600. BrLD $-$$ The Nordic Surf and turf buffet selections perfect for family gatherings. 178 E Pasquisett Trl, Charlestown, 783-4515. LD $$$ The Old Grist Mill Tavern Fine dining located over the Runnins River. 390 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, 508-3368460. LD $-$$$ The Rosendale Bar and grill with welcoming atomposphere and creative menu. 55 Union St, Providence, 4213253. LD $-$$ The Salted Slate An agri-driven American restaurant with global influences. 186 Wayland Ave, Providence, 270-3737. BrLD $$-$$$ The

Villa

Restaurant

Banquet

Facility Family Italian restaurant with live music and entertainment. 272 Cowesett Ave, West Warwick, 8210060. D $-$$ The Village Lively bar and grill with comfort fare, bar bites and beer. 373 Richmond St, Providence, 228-7222. BrLD $-$$ Tortilla Flats Fresh Mexican, Cajun and Southwestern fare, cocktails and over 70 tequilas. 355 Hope St, Providence, 751-6777. LD $-$$ Trattoria Del Mare Traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on seafood in an elegant yet relaxing atmosphere. 145 Spruce St, Providence, 273-7070. LD $$-$$$

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Trinity Brewhouse Rhode Island’s original brewpub. 186 Fountain St, Providence, 453-2337. LD $-$$ Twin Willows Fresh seafood and water views in a family-friendly atmosphere. 865 Boston Neck Rd, Narragansett, 789-8153. LD $-$$ The Wharf Tavern Serves fresh seafood and steak with bay views from almost every table. 215 Water St, Warren, 289-2524. BrLD $-$$$ Tong-D Fine Thai cuisine in a casual setting. 156 County Rd, Barrington, 289-2998; 50 South County Common Way, South Kingstown, 783-4445. LD $-$$

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Tony’s Colonial Specialty store offering the finest Imported and domestic Italian foods. 311 Atwells Ave, Providence, 621-8675. $-$$$ Twin Oaks Family restaurant serving an extensive selection of Italian and American staples. 100 Sabra St, Cranston, 781-9693. LD $-$$$ TwoTen Oyster Bar and Grill Local oysters and upmarket seafood dishes with a full bar menu. 210 Salt Pond Rd, South Kingstown, 782-0100. BrLD $-$$$ Vinya The test kitchen for Hotel Providence offering an interactive dining experience. 225a Westminster St, Providence. D $-$$ Whiskey Republic Delicious dockside pub fare. 515 South Water St, Providence, 588-5158. LD $-$$ XO Cafe Creative cocktails and New American fare. 125 N Main St, Providence, 273-9090. BrD $$

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October 2016 East Side Monthly

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East Side Monthly October 2016

On the town Calendar

October music | performance | social happenings | galleries | sports

DON’T MISS THIS MONTH: 10 events at the top of our list

1 2

The Jack-O-lantern Spectacular returns to the Roger Williams Park Zoo beginning October 6. RWPZoo.org

Take the family to see Hansel and Gretel at Festival Ballet for their version of the classic fairy tale favorite on October 29 and 30. FestivalBalletProvidence.org

See the city through the eyes of a legendary author as H.P. Lovecraft Walking Tours connects his stories with locations throughout the East Side on October 22 and 23. RIHS.org

Pronk returns for another day of marching bands and community action, starting at Burnside Park and making its way to the East Side on October 10. ProvidenceHonkFest.org

Enter the creative world of history and science fiction with Steampunk Mansion Mashup at the Lippitt House on October 8. PreserveRI.org

Experience Mysterium, The Eternal Masquerade at Providence Public Library for a one-of-a-kind, arts-inspired Halloween experience on October 28. ProvLib.org

7 8 9

Turn up the heat this fall at the annual Halloween Iron Pour at the Steel Yard on October 22. TheSteelYard.org Time is running out to see Wicked at PPAC with shows until October 8. PPACRI.org

Families are invited to release their inner critic at the Providence Children’s Film Festival Jury Night at the Athenaeum on October 15. ProvidenceChildrensFilmFestival.org. ProvidenceAthenaeum.org

The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular features 5,000 intricate pumpkins on display all month long at Roger Williams Park Zoo

Celebrate with WBRU as Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats perform for the WBRU Birthday Bash at Lupos on October 23. Lupos.com October 2016 East Side Monthly

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East Side Monthly October 2016

165 Pitman Street, Providence • 401-831-7771

On the town Calendar MUSIC

arena & club | classical ARENA & CLUB AS220 October 4: Shambhala in Shambles, Atlas Bloom, Sweet Release and Bruvs. October 12: LuSoup, Jscire, Seppi, Mikey Ls, Chris Billz, Rellz, Young Iverson, Currtisy and T-Cap. October 13: Melt Like Clouds (NYC), Joe-Lou, Ghost of Schoolby (Cape), Harrastronauts and Administrator. October 14: St. James and the Apostles, Snot Rocket, Neutrinos and The End Men. October 15: The Invisible Hours, My Empty Phantom (TX), Baylies Band and Favourite. October 19: The Kick Ups, Jeremy Porter and the Tucos and the Sensitive Ferns. October 21: Alec K. Redfearn and the Eyesores, Gaelynn Lea, Jess Klein and Haunt the House. October 22: Ian Faria, The Owens, We Can All Be Sorry and

continued...

Really Big Pine Cone. October 26: Tristan Eckerson, Blevin Blectum and Dan Putnam. 95 and 115 Empire Street. 831-9327, AS220.org AURORA October 1: Studio 54 Disco Night. October 3: Lina Tullgreen. October 5: Salsa Con Soul. October 6: Urban Square Dance: Flood Relief Benefit. October 9: Downtown Boys w/ The World, Secret Circle, Hairspray Queen. October 10: Daniel Bachman, Animal Hospital, Westeryear. October 11: Public Speaking, Domestique, House Red, Blevin Blectum, Droplet. October 14: Haunted Providence Masquerade Ball. October 23: American Murder Song: The American Wake Tour. October 25: Show Me The Body, Goon Planet, XRTabs. October 28: Psychic Ills, Albert DeMuth. October 30: Vinyl Williams, Houseboy. 276 Westminster Street. 272-5723, AuroraProvidence.com

CHAN’S FINE ORIENTAL DINING October 1: Daryl Sherman. October 7: Evenfall Quartet. October 8: Dan Moretti and the Hammond Boys w/ Michelle Wilson. October 12: Bobby Rush. October 14-15: Anthony Gomes. October 21: Blue FO’s. October 22: Sugar Ray Norcia Trio. October 27: Royal Southern Brotherhood. October 29: Love Dogs. 267 Main Street, Woonsocket. 765-1900, ChansEggrollsAndJazz.com

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COLUMBUS THEATRE October 13: Joe Mande. October 14: Arc Iris. October 21: Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn. October 30: Ryley Walker. October 31: Mitski, Fear of Men. 270 Broadway. 621-9660, ColumbusTheatre.com DUNKIN’ DONUTS CENTER October 22: Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire. 1 LaSalle Square. 331-0700,

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THINK PINK

Raising Awareness at Flames of Hope October 1-2: The city turns pink for the Gloria Gemma Flames of Hope Weekend in honor of those affected by breast cancer. Get inspired as the community joins for the Northeast’s largest breast cancer event featuring entertainment and food, a health expo and a walk/run series for the whole family. Free. Various times and locations. One Capitol Hill. 207-7803, FlamesOfHopeRI.org

October 2016 East Side Monthly

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On the town Calendar DunkinDonutsCenter.com FETE MUSIC HALL October 1: Adam Ezra Group. October 2: Diarrhea Planet w/Western Medication. October 13: The Dillinger Escape Plan. October 14: Providence Metal Fest 3. October 17: Oh Wonder. October 18: David Ramirez. October 28: Jamestown Revival. 103 Dike Street. 383-1112, FeteMusic.com FIREHOUSE 13 October 5: Alestorm. October 6: Menace. October 28: The Blasters. 41 Central Street. 270-1801, FH13.com

LUPO’S HEARTBREAK HOTEL October 1: Exile One. October 12: Neon Issue Indian. October 13: Eric Paslay. October

September 2, 2016 East Side Monthly, Wednesday - Trivia & Musical Bingo eptember 6, 2016 Providence Monthly, October Issue Thursday - ShowTinis Friday - GRAY Dance Party September 13, 2016 SO Rhode Island, October issue Saturday - Live Music and DJs

continued...

October 15: Dirty Heads. October 21: Local Natives. October 23: Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats, Weathers, Le Roxy Pro. October 29: Fabolous & Jadakiss. 79 Washington Street. 331-5876, Lupos.com THE MET October 1: Taking Back Sunday. October 6: This Wild Life. October 8: The Get Up Kids. October 12: Larry June. October 13: Mr. Lif. October 15: Playing Dead. October 21: Shellac. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 729-1005, TheMetRI.com PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER October 10: Gavin DeGraw and Andy Grammer. October 19: Giada

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East Side Monthly October 2016

COMEDY CONNECTION October 6-8: Jessimae Peluso. October 7-8: Hardcore Comedy. October 21-22: Robert Kelly. October 28-29: Bob Marley. 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. 438-8383, RIComedyConnection.com FIREHOUSE 13 October 16: Dead End Comedy. 41 Central Street. 270-1801, FH13.com

THEATRE AURORA October 1, 7-8, 14-15: Desdemona: A Play About a Handkerchief. October 13: Sweet Little Variety Show. 276 Westminster Street. 272-5723, AuroraProvidence.com

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COMEDY AS220 October 1: Improv Jones. October 7: Live Bait. 95 and 115 Empire Street. 831-9327, AS220.org

FESTIVAL BALLET Mondays: Adult ballet (beginner). Wednesdays: Adult ballet (intermediate). Monday, Wednesday afternoons: Creative movement (age 3-5). Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday mornings: Creative movement (age 3-5). 825 Hope Street. 353-1129, FestivalBalletProvidence.org

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ROCKIN’ REVISIONISM

This Isn’t Your Grandpa’s Beowulf Thru October 9: After 1,000 years of slugging it out with Grendel in lit classes, Beowulf gets the celebrity treatment. Beowulf: A Thousand Years of Baggage is the rock and roll retelling of this literary classic with a meta twist: academics will be on-stage overanalyzing his every move. Get out your broadsword, and enjoy this new spin on an old classic. 201 Washington Street. 351-4242, TrinityRep.com

FESTIVAL BALLET October 29-30: Hansel & Gretel. 825 Hope Street. 353-1129, FestivalBalletProvidence.org THE GAMM October: Arcadia. 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 723-4266, GammTheatre. org TRINITY REP Thru October 9: Beowulf: A Thousand Years of Baggage. October 6November 6: Appropriate. 201

Washington Street. TrinityRep.com THE WILBURY GROUP October 20-30: 10,000 Things. 393 Broad Street. 400-7100, TheWilburyGroup.org

SOCIAL hAPPenInGS

expos | fundraisers | seasonal FOR FOODIES BOTTLES Thursdays: Spirit tasting. Fridays: Beer tasting. Saturdays: Wine tasting. 141 Pitman Street. 372-2030, BottlesFineWine.com FARM FRESH RHODE ISLAND Wednesdays: Brown University Farmer’s Market. Wednesday and Saturdays: Hope Street Farmer’s Market. 1059 Hope Street. FarmFreshRI.org OTHER WATERFIRE October 1: Flames of Hope: A Celebration of Life. Waterplace Park. 273-1155, Waterfire.org

GALLeRIeS 186 CARPENTER October 1-22: Flocked, Blocked and Stenciled. 186 Carpenter Street. 186Carpenter.Tumblr.com ARTPROV GALLERY October 6-31: Face-Off. 150 Chestnut Street. 641-5182, ArtProvidence.com AS220 October 1: October Gallery Show. October 16: A Celebration of Amy Dermont. 115 Empire Street. 831-9327, AS220.org HAFFENREFFER MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY October 16: Critical Encounters with “Whirling Return of the Ancestors.” October 18: Building Futures, Saving Pasts – How Thriving Communities Can Preserve Their Heritage. 21 Prospect Street. 863-5700, Brown.edu JOHN HAY LIBRARY October 1-31: A Hymn for the Brave – The Sharps and Humanitarian Work in World War II October 1-31: Stereographs from the Brown University Library Collection. 20 Prospect Street. 863-2146, Library.Brown.edu PROVIDENCE ART CLUB

October 1-14: Gayle Wells Mandle and Gretche Dow Simpson – Passageways and Boundaries. October 16-November 4: Bill Comeau, Peter Michael Miller, Nick Paciorek – 3 Artists, 3 Visions. Mary Kosowski – Art Life Retrospective. 11 Thomas Street. 331-1114, ProvidenceArtClub.org RISD MUSEUM October 14: Double Take to Honor Nesmin. October 21: Inventing impressionism. 20 North Main Street. 4546530, RISDMuseum.org

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LADD OBSERVATORY Tuesdays: Telescope observing night. 210 Doyle Avenue. 785-9457, Brown. edu/Departments/Physics/Ladd LIPPITT HOUSE MUSEUM October 15: Lippitt Labs: Politics in the 19th Century. October 15: Behind the Scenes tour. 199 Hope Street. 4530688, LippittHouse.org MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND PLANETARIUM Saturdays and Sundays: Public Planetarium Shows. 1000 Elmood Avenue. 785-9457, ProvidenceRI.com/ Museum

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PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY LIBRARY Mondays: Writer’s Meetup, Learn to Speak Spanish for Beginners. Tuesdays: Intermediate Spanish II. Wednesdays: Poetry Group. Rochambeau Library, 708 Hope Street. 272-3780, ProvComLib.org

SPORtS BROWN UNIVERSITY October 1: Women’s Rugby; Men and Women’s Soccer. October 2: Field Hockey. October 5: Men’s Soccer. October 7: Women’s Volleyball. October 8: Women’s Rugby. October 10: Field Hockey. October 14: Men’s Soccer. October 15: Women’s Soccer. October 16: Men’s Soccer. October 18: Field Hockey. October 21: Women’s Ice Hockey; Field Hockey. October 22: Football; Women’s Soccer; Women’s Ice Hockey. October 28: Women’s Ice Hockey; Women’s Volleyball. October 29: Men’s Water Polo; Women’s Ice Hockey; Women’s Volleyball. October 30: Men’s Ice Hockey. Various venues, BrownBears.com

401.632.4400 sitespecificllc.com Selling in 2016? Interview me! Did you know that only 67% of sellers interview only one Real Estate Agent? (Source: Realtor.Com)

Call Ted Bourque Today!

“Your Real Estate Professional, Assisting Buyers and Sellers Achieve Their Goals” TED BOURQUE Team Member of 401.749.1699 tbourque@residentialproperties.com

antropandwilliamson.com

October 2016 East Side Monthly

Spotlight

special advertising section

Beautiful Pre-Owned Jewelry

AutoWerks

Keeping you and your family safe

1271 North Main Street, Providence 437-8421 358 Broad Street, Providence 273-7050

Membership...

It’s more than fitness! It’s an open door to a variety of social, cultural, and educational activities that celebrate family, foster health and well-being, embrace tradition, and expand cultural horizons.

Golden Crest Nursing Centre

Exceptional Post-Surgery Rehab Services Upgrading your vehicle is

Early Childhood Center, Summer Camp, After School Care, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Basketball Gym, Group Exercise, Community Events and so much more!

Everyone is welcome! 401 Elmgrove Avenue Providence, RI 02906 jewishallianceri.org

Dwares Rhode Island

Saving Up To 70% off ReTail pRice New, ReFuRbished ANd sCRAtCh & deNt AppliANCes

Stainless Refrigerators • Ranges Washers & Dryers • Built-In Refrigeration Cooktops & Wall Ovens • Dishwashers

www.GoldenCrestNursingCentre.com

100 Smithfield Road N. Providence • 353-1710

IasImonE PlumbIng H e at i n g & D r a i n Cleaning, inC. InstallatIons • RepaIRs Replacements

We are always providing a Free Estimate

We Can Do anything With Water Except Walk on It

Servicing all of RI & nearby Mass. for over 35 years Monday - Friday 7:00am to 6:00pm

416 Roosevelt Avenue, Central Falls 401.723.0500 • kitchenguys.com 62

East Side Monthly October 2016

Winner of the super service award from Angie’s List four years in a row!

27 Allen Avenue, North Providence (401) 300-9761 • iasimonephdc.com

no small matter. It’s an expensive and stressful proposition, but knowing Bob Moreau of AutoWerks can make sense financially and from a safety perspective. Typically people replace a car when it’s no longer worth the price of the next major repair or when their needs change, but consider this: for the last few years manufacturers have made significant safety upgrades that should have you contemplating a newer car now! Although having airbags was once considered optional, today safety is a much bigger issue. A recent study shows RI drivers are 170% more likely than the national average to have a vehicle accident. Carmakers are taking these statistics seriously and cars have suddenly taken a huge forward leap in safety technology. In addition to more airbags, many vehicles now have backup cameras, blind spot and lane departure warnings, forward collision alert (some even include active braking) and many other highly effective technologies. Android/iPhone interface is often standard to help reduce distracted driving. These new options are highly desirable for all drivers but particularly for new and aging drivers. If upgrading your vehicle makes sense for you, Bob Moreau of AutoWerks offers a free consultation. He has been an expert for decades. His specialty is in finding “pre-loved” vehicles with extremely low mileage, thus you avoid the first major depreciation in value. You save on excise tax and insurance as well. Similar to buying new, you choose model, year, color and options and the price is agreed upon in advance using Kelly Blue Book (although he often beats their prices). Bob will then find your dream car using the same resources the high priced dealers use. Next, his factory trained mechanics will service and do a 200 point check on the car. It is then registered and delivered to you in perfect condition and looking brand new. AutoWerks provides a warranty as well as continued service and repairs for the life of the car so the vehicle stays safe and runs well for a long as you own it. Call Bob Moreau at AutoWerks and experience worry free driving.

AutoWerks 474-1300 / WerksWell.com

Spotlight

by Dan Schwartz

special advertising section

Marc Allen Fine Clothiers

Now offering the Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method

“After a week of treatment, all the pain was gone... I recommend Dr. Tom to everyone I know.” – J.T.

Differentiate yourself from the crowd

Northeast Chiropractic 200 South Main St, Providence 401-453-0025 marcalleninc.com

Tuesday - Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm

Dr. ThomaS moriSon ChiropraCTiC phySiCian

401-861-1300 • 187 Waterman Street www.wickedgoodposture.com

Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors

“Menswear is the one retail industry that continues to grow,” declares Marc Streisand, owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers. “Womenswear has taken a hit and every classic retail store is downsizing; we’re expanding.” The jocular owner attributes part of his success to the ability to be nimble in the face of an ever-changing world plus providing the best customer service by knowing his client base at an individual level. How nimble? The recently declared troubles of the shipping company Hanjin threw Italian clothing manufacturers into a bind as their fabrics were stranded outside ports. “One of our shipments coming from Italy is stuck on this ship and we know we’re not going to get it, so we’re going to Fall River and designing our own shirts,” Marc explains. His good relationships with textile manufacturers in Canada, Fall River and New York City have allowed him to shift gears and get new lines in quickly for the upcoming season. One area Marc has seen extreme growth in his business is in the MA made-to-measure line, which provides top quality garments at an accessible price point. Style manager Colin Ward mentions that he believes since the launch of MA two years ago sales are up 4,000%. “It’s for the young professional who is starting to make his mark in his career,” Marc mentions. “Someone who has had some successes and knows that he wants to differentiate himself from everybody else.” The master tailors at Marc Allen who orchestrate the made-to-measure and bespoke handiwork are sometimes tapped to solve other tailor’s problems. Colin pointed out a top-of-the-line Kiton worsted wool suit purchased at Neiman Marcus that they are fixing, at a great expense, because it wasn’t properly built. The best thing to do is avoid that problem altogether at step one and get fully measured and taken care of at Marc Allen. This shop is the epitome of a dynamic boutique with a curated selection and many items secured with individual client’s tastes in mind. Stop into Marc Allen today to help right your fashion course and stand out in the world.

Marc Allen Fine Clothiers 200 South Main Street, Providence 453-0025 / MarcAllenInc.com

It could be time for a new timing belt given New England’s fluctuating temperatures. 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)

MARKETING DESIGN • PRINT 102 Waterman Street Providence p: 401. 421. 5160 f: 401.272.0686

allegraprovidence. com

T.F. Morra Tree Care, Inc. A NEW CONCEPT ALZHEIMER’S/ MEMORY CARE ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE™ Call today to sChedule a personal tour

401.944.2450 49 Old Pocasset Road, Johnston briarcliffegardens.com

Ornamental and Shade Tree Specialists • fine hand pruning • tree preservation • hazard tree removal • tree evaluation & diagnosis • tree planting consultation

401-331-8527 tfmorra.com October 2016 East Side Monthly

marketplace HOME IMPROVEMENT SUPERB HOUSEPAINTING High end workmanship. Small jobs a specialty. Call Ron 751-3242. Reg. #18128.

EAST SIDE HANDYMAN 34 years experience. Repairs, upgrades & renovations. Small jobs welcome. References. Insured. Reg. #3052. 524-6421.

STONE MASON 30 yrs. exp. Stone, brick, veneers, walls, fireplaces, patios, chimneys, pavers. Design work. Reg. #7445. Call 641-0362. lousstonework.com

David Onken Painting Interior/Exterior Lead Certified Carpentry Renovations Gutter Cleaning â– Chimney Pointing Roof Leaks Repaired Reg. #19031

Insured

248-5248

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 2268332. Reg. #19226.

We Specialize in painting & carpentry Experts in Water Problems

PIONEER BASEMENT

From Roofs, Gutters & Basements

The healthy choice for wet basements, crawl spaces, moisture & air quality control. Foundation repair. Certified. Insured. Reg. #3934. Cell 401-215-7985 or 1-800-649-6140.

Over 20 years of experience on historical homes Certified Lead Renovated LRM #0514 RI Reg #7320 â€˘ Fully insured GET IT DONE! CALL TODAY!

Call Al Medina (401) 438-8771 or (401) 323-8252

Prompt, Reliable Quality Work

Levine Painting Co., Inc. Interior, Exterior, Residential/Commercial Wallpaper Hanging, Power Washing, Staining 25 Years Experience

(401) 885-1580 â€˘ (401) 323-6100 cell R.I. Lic 7140 Liab/ Work Comp Insured

davidokenpainting.com

Kitchen cabinet

Refinishing Staining â€˘ Painting Clearcoating

call anthony today Lic.

401-480-2366 25485

Harold Greco, Jr.

The Finest in New England Craftmanship

Boreal Remodeling General Home Repair, including Kitchens, Baths, Decks & Additions Reg. # 22013

Michael Packard â€˘ (401) 441-7303

Plaster Perfection â˜… â˜…

Small Repair Specialist

Emergency Water & Vandalism Repairs

Insurance Quotes â˜… Mold Inspections

Historic Restorations Painting

738-0369 Senior â˜… Veteran â˜… Cash Discounts

Reg. #4114

â˜…

Member BBB â˜… Est. 1946

BUSINESS SERVICES

CHRISâ€™ LAMP REPAIR We Make Housecalls!!! âœ

Repairing all types of Lamps Vintage Lighting Specialist âœ Chandelier Repairs âœ Serving the East Side for 20 years âœ Fully Insured

âœ

401-831-8693

THE LAUNDRY CLUB Is now offering free laundry & dry cleaning pick-up & delivery service to the East Side and downtown areas. Call 272-2520 for details.

DINNER/COCkTAIL PARTY? Professional Chef services available. Excellent references. Call 401-219-6375.

www.chrislamprepair.com

PROPERTY MANAGER Available. On call 24/7. Rent collection. Rentals, evictions, maintenance. Call 421-0092.

HOUSE CLEANING

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. 30 years of experience.

DOROTHYâ€™S CLEANING We clean your home as our own! References & free estimates. Call 401-524-7453 or 401-228-6273.

WANTED I BUY BOOkS Old, used and almost new. Also buying photography, art, etc. Call 401-286-9329. jcminich1@gmail.com

HOUSE CLEANING Experienced. Local references. Free estimates. Call Lilly, 401-419-2933.

HOUSE/OFFICE CLEANING Reliable and Experienced. Good rates. Email eastsidecleaningri@yahoo.com

Brier & Brier

USED MUSIC WANTED! Round Again Records needs your used CDs and records. Cash paid. Call 351-6292.

LAWN CARE

Insurance and Employee Benefits

Are You Nearing Retirement?

Firewood $275/cord Vinnyâ€™s Landscaping & BOBCAT SERVICES Power Raking â—? Hammering

Augering â—? Screened Loam Delivered

New Lawns Installed Excavating Work

Jeffrey G. Brier CLU, ChFC, CASL 81 S. Angell Street, Providence, RI 02906 jbrier@brier-brier.com 401-751-2990

FEELING OVERWHELMED???!!!

Serving East Side for over 20 years!

Need your cellar, attic or garage cleaned, but... canâ€™t quite get to it?? You can call

Cellars & Attics Cleaned

TAKE-IT-AWAY-TOM at 401-434-8156 Mobile 316-2273 Counselor on the Debris of Life LEATHERWORkS, LLC A leather and vinyl restoration company. We specialize in funiture, automobiles, boats and aircraft. Visit us at LeatherWorksRI.com, or call Robert at 401 837-0548.

Seed & Sod â—? Fertilizing â—? Planting Rototilling â—? Free Estimates

497-1461

JOBS BY JIM

Unwanteds Removed Estate Cleaning Small Demolitions - Garages, Sheds, etc. â?–

Motors â?–Machines â?–Batteries â?–Etc.

Cell 401-742-7258

Reg. #4614

PARkING PARkING/STORAGE Congdon St., $115 covered carport. Benefit St. (north end), $95/mo. Call Roger, 339-4068. rogernc@mac.com

â—?

231-1851

Advertise in the

SENIOR CARE

Marketplace

kIND CARE ~ SENIORS

$12!

Appointments, errands, shopping, cleaning & maint. Refs. Safety bars installed. Reg #3052. 559-0848.

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.

for as low as

Go to

www.EastSideMonthly.com/ Marketplace.html to reserve your space. OR Please Email Sue at: sueh@rhodybeat.com

Deadline for East Side Marketplace is the first of the month prior.

THE EAST SIDER

Donovan Loucks moved to the East Side from Arizona to pursue his passion for the geography of Lovecraft’s writing

Donovan Loucks Traces Lovecraft’s Footsteps By Amanda M. Grosvenor

Donovan Loucks, with his clean-cut appearance and polite Midwestern manner, may not be what most would typically associate with eccentric horror author H.P. Lovecraft and his, at times, cultlike posthumous following of devotees who make pilgrimages from far corners of the globe to shadow Lovecraft’s footsteps, haunt his haunts and pay homage at his grave in Swan Point cemetery. But Loucks has owned and managed the outrageously comprehensive HPLovecraft.com website since the mid-‘90s, and specifically relocated to Providence in 2013 to conduct research for a book, as well as participate in the biannual NecronomiCon festival. As a teenager growing up in Phoenix, AZ in the mid-‘70s, Loucks first caught wind of the author during the Lovecraft publishing resurgence happening

East Side Monthly October 2016

at the time. He studied computer programming and had created his own personal website during the early Internet frontier days. “I saw the web as a giant encyclopedia of knowledge, and I wondered, ‘Which chapter will I contribute?’” says Loucks. The answer was a no-brainer: Lovecraft. Over one weekend, he created a dozen web pages initially housed as a subcategory within his personal site. They have now morphed into a 600+ page behemoth of Lovecraftian lore, literature and resources that generates over 2,500 hits a day. Lovecraft is already a popular topic for academically-minded research, and Loucks decided that the best way to make a meaningful contribution would be to put his geography buff tendencies to good use with a geographical categorization and mapping of not just the places mentioned in Lovecraft’s

stories, but his letters as well. It’s a daunting task since Lovecraft wrote over 80,000 correspondences during his lifetime using tiny, page-filing print. To date, Loucks has located 1,500 points of interest and counting. “Many people believe that Lovecraft was a shut-in, but that simply isn’t true,” he notes. “After his mother died, he did quite a lot of traveling.” Loucks is working on a book about Lovecraft geography, and he gives presentations, moderates panels and organizes the walking and bus tours during NecronomiCon. His walking tour hits 37 key places in Providence, including the Ladd Observatory, the site of Lovecraft’s home on Angell Street and his beloved Prospect Terrace. After retiring from corporate America in 2008, Loucks and his wife Pam began to explore various relocations,

finally settling on Providence as “the only real solution for my research,” he says, having vacationed here since 1993. He recommends The Case of Charles Dexter Ward as Lovecraft’s “love letter” to our city. If you had one wish to enhance life on the East Side, what would it be? Although he loves the East Side for its walkability to restaurants, theatre, events and universities: “Coming in as a Midwesterner, it has been challenging making friends since regional mentalities can be so different. The topography and roads here can also make getting around much more difficult than in cities that were built more recently – there’s a sort of frictional overhead that makes things more time-consuming and draining. Overall, I wish it were easier to meet and get together with new people.”

Photography by Ian Travis Barnard

Olney Street resident

N E W P ORT

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NARRAGANSETT

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PR O V I D E NC E

EAST SIDE

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J A M E S TO W N

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WATC H H I L L

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BLO C K I S L A N D

BARRINGTON

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WARREN - TOUISSETT

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LUXURY REMODELED CONDO | OAK HILL WEB ID: 1127279 | $229,900 | 401.274.1644

5 BEDROOMS | POOL & PATIO | TENNIS COURT WEB ID: 1126880 | $1,499,000 | 401.274.1644

BRISTOL - WATERFRONT

WARREN - TOUISSETT WATERFRONT

LINCOLN - ESTATES AT DENNELL NORTH

DOWNTOWN LUXURY CONDO | STONE HARBOUR WEB ID: 1123218 | $1,175,000 | 401.848.2101

2.35 ACRES | BEACH & DOCK | GUEST HOUSE WEB ID: 1132438 | $2,195,000 | 401.274.1644

3+ ACRES | 5 BEDROOMS | NEW CONSTRUCTION WEB ID: 1104074 | $2,995,000 | 401.789.6666

Why see just a few, visit them all at... PROVIDENCE

369 SOUTH MAIN ST

401.274.1644

51ProspectStreet.com East Side of Providence $2,250,000 401.274.6740

57 Fosdyke Street East Side of Providence $539,900 401.274.6740

102WilliamsStreet.com East Side of Providence $896,000 401.274.6740

Barrington 401.245.9600 Cumberland 401.333.9333 East Greenwich 401.885.8400 Narragansett 401.783.2474 Providence 401.274.6740 Relocation 800.886.1775

residentialproperties.com

#1 in RI homes sold in 2015 pbn book of lists

(Providence Business News)

CELE

B R AT

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436Blackstone.com East Side of Providence $1,995,000 401.274.6740

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ING

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