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CONTENTS
Photo courtesy of McBride’s Irish Pub
East Side Monthly • December 2018
This Month 35 HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
12 The Sopranos writer and Providence native returns home in her recent memoir
From upper Hope to lower Hope and everywhere in between, the neighborhoods of the East Side are filled with festive sights and sounds
14 Two agencies combine forces to better serve their community
31 GIRLS ROCK! Empowering women of all ages, one riff at a time
Every Month 8 Editorial 20 In the Know
16 RI New Moms Connection celebrates 10 years of women helping women 18 Behind-the-scenes with the Rhode Island Historical Society’s new film archivist
Close to Home 41 Home of the Month: Owner of the Morris Brown House stays faithful to historic trends
23 Neighborhood News
On the Town 47 Flavor of the Month: Porridge isn’t just for Goldilocks at The Shop in Fox Point 48 On the Menu: Local resources for keeping Kosher 51 Restaurant Guide
Calendar 57 Calendar: Events you can’t miss this month
East Sider 66 Trailblazer Katrina Horner shares her Pacific Crest Trail adventure
42 Education: Unconventional program teaches Shakespeare through rap
Community 11 A Brown grad asserts life on Mars is both possible and probable
On the Cover:
44 East of Elmgrove: An introspective walk down Blackstone Boulevard
A wreath signals the holiday season. Photo by Christine Chitnis.
East Side Monthly • December 2018 7
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The leaves have finally turned. Our clocks have been dutifully set back. And the frost has long ago descended on our pumpkins. In short, the holiday season is finally at hand. And after a rugged fall, with its contentious elections, bomb threats to some of our most distinguished leaders, and the unspeakable horror in Pittsburgh, we are finally entering the time of year that is supposedly centered on “peace on earth and good will toward men.” Or so we hope. What makes this season so special is that, regardless of one’s faith, or even the lack of it, it is mostly about family. It starts with Thanksgiving and then spills into December. And there are plenty of ways to celebrate it, whether you choose Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza, or even George Costanza’s “Festivus for the rest of us.” The month comes complete with a wide range of traditional touchstones: Trinity’s A Christmas Carol, Messiah concerts, dreidels and latkes, The Nutcracker, Christmas tree and Chanukah lightings, Santa sightings, and the like to help facilitate the sense that, despite the chill in the air – and hopefully maybe even some snow on the ground – it is the perfect time to put the old year behind us and prepare to welcome the new.
And of course, there’s shopping. Plenty of it. Maybe even too much of it, argue some critics. But rather than engage in that debate, we would rather just offer our annual plea to our faithful readers: As you stroll around looking for that something special, we urge you to consider buying local and support the merchants of the East Side. One of our retailer friends here said it best: “A community will ultimately be defined by the way it treats its local businesses. Sure, you might save a few bucks with Amazon. But it’s the local businesses that provide shape to a community. More often than not, the owners or their managers live in, and know, our neighborhoods. They customize their shops to anticipate our tastes. They almost always support our local artists and craftspeople. Some even greet us by name. And, oh yeah… many also advertise in our paper, which allows us to deliver it free to your door every month. So, thank you to our advertisers, our neighbors – and, of course, you – our readers, for your continued support over the past 43 years. We are truly honored to be part of a unique and wonderful East Side community we’re proud to call home. Happy holidays to all.
East Side Monthly Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
Media Director Jeanette St. Pierre
Executive Editor Barry Fain
City Editor Steve Triedman
Editor in Chief Elyse Major
Managing Editor Tony Pacitti
Editor Robert Isenberg
Assistant Editor Megan Schmit
Art Director Nick DelGiudice
Assistant Art Director Brandon Harmon
Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas
Graphic Designer Taylor Gilbert
Marketing Coordinator Kim Tingle
Staff Photographer Savannah Barkley
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Classified Advertising Sue Howarth Interns Isabella DeLeo Shannon McDonnell 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.
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
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COMMUNITY East Side Stories | Neighborhood News & Notes
East Side News
The Martian Chronicler
A graduate student at Brown believes that the Red Planet could have once supported life By Shannon McDonnell
Underground, eons ago, the conditions on Mars could have fostered extra-terrestrials, posits Jesse Tarnas
Photo courtesy of Jesse Tarnas
For centuries,
humanity has wondered: Does life exist outside of our planet? After months of research, Jesse Tarnas, a graduate student at Brown University and lead author of a study published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, thinks we are one step closer to answering that question. During his study of ancient Mars, Tarnas found that between three and four million years ago the conditions beneath the planet’s surface were very similar to that of Earth. “There was likely a long-lived, habitable environment underground on ancient Mars,” Tarnas explains. On Earth, microorganisms are able to survive if the proper temperature conditions exist and if their ecosystem has the necessary chemical energy available. Tarnas says that Mars checked all of these boxes.
Whether or not this space was inhabited is still unclear. What we do know is that life on another planet was likely possible for a very long time. This assertion conjures images of alien encounters and family vacations to Martian craters, and it begs the question: Does Tarnas believe the planet could ever support life again? “If this habitable environment still exists today,” Tarnas begins, “it is likely much deeper in the crust than it was four billion years ago. Instead of beginning at one-to-two kilometers’ depth, it would likely begin at eight-to-10 kilometers’ depth. Investigating whether or not there is existing life in this potential habitat would require deep drilling.” Tarnas says that drilling of this kind would
require resources that they currently don’t have. There is still hope, though: “The Mars 2020 rover will look for biosignatures, which is how actual evidence for ancient life on Mars could be uncovered.” “I think that humans must become an interplanetary species if we are to survive long-term,” adds Tarnas. “The exploration of space, if done collaboratively, can be a great unifying effort for all humans on this planet. The explorative human spirit transcends national borders and languages and exploring the final frontier as a unified species can help bring peace to our planet.” Although there are still galaxies left to research and years of work ahead of us, Tarnas has helped us feel one step closer towards the stars.
East Side Monthly • December 2018 11
Community East Side News
A Soprano Sings
How one East Side writer used sex, rock and roll, and a local gangster to win an Emmy By Barry Fain
There are certain
memoirs that can’t be written until you’re sure that your parents are dead. Providence-born Robin Green’s recently published life’s story, The Only Girl, is clearly one of them. One of Providence’s great writing success stories, Green describes her early years on the East Side, growing up “in the smallest house on Wayland Avenue.” She excelled at Classical High School and earned a scholarship to Brown – but before long we’re taken on a wild, raucous, and often raunchy ride that started right after college and led to a celebrated career as the first woman on the
12
East Side Monthly • December 2018
masthead of Rolling Stone magazine. Later, she earned an Emmy award and financial success as the executive producer and lead writer for the The Sopranos, among other TV hits. Green starts with humorous recollections of her role as an active participant in the sexual revolution of the ‘60s and ‘70s – and even drops in a tasteful picture or two to prove it. But she’s equally forthcoming in describing her contentious relationship with her mom and her lifelong battle to deal with it. Though Green reveals more details than we really need to know, it adds texture that will be
particularly interesting to those of us who have grown up in Providence. And having mob boss Raymond Patriarca as a neighbor certainly provided some memories that served her well in her Sopranos scripts. She describes in florid strokes what it was like to live through those early turbulent and over-the-top days in both San Francisco and New York. On the one hand, it was a time when the options available for women were limited, the glass ceiling seemingly locked on the second floor. Gradually, women’s empowerment took hold, along with a sexual freedom that was embraced by both genders, and
Photo courtesy of Robin Green
Robin Green trailblazed through the magazine and television industries, and now she tells all
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Green was right there, perfectly positioned at the epicenter of the both revolutions. Green also tries to make peace with her disappointments. She shares the heartbreak of the suicide of her best friend and speculates on what she might have done differently to prevent it. But she also celebrates her decision to reset her life and attend the University of Iowa’s Writers Program, where she both sharpened her skills and met her future husband and writing partner. For those of us who live in Providence, the book works on several levels. In addition to the narrative of her own climb off the East Side, detailed names and places provide plenty of local color. In addition, she adds fascinating details of the battles that were fought to carve out a successful career in California, how she ended up losing her job at Rolling Stone (for sleeping with the subject she was writing about), and why she chose to leave The Sopranos, despite her awards and the show’s unquestioned success. The book is a little disjointed and certainly might have benefited from tighter editing as it pinballs from past to present to past again. But the writing is colorful, though raunchy, and her sense of humor and honesty endearing. Despite her love-hate relationship with her hometown, something down deep still draws her back to her roots. She and her husband Mitch have actually returned here as summer residents, renting fancy digs in Little Compton and Watch Hill. And she remains committed to taking an active role as an alum, happily acknowledging the role Classical High School provided to help her move ahead. Thomas Mann was wrong. You can come home again, but it’s a little bit easier once you’ve come to terms with your family demons and have the wherewithal to look back on that past from a comfortable perch nearby.
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Community East Side News
Experience. Integrity. Results.
JFS plus JSA equals JCS
Two service agencies combine to improve operations By Ed McCarthy
CALL Gerri Schiffman (401) 474-3733
Shortly after Jewish Collaborative Service was born, Erin Minior was unanimously voted the organization’s first president
gerrischiffman.com
residentialproperties.com gerri@residentialproperties.com 14
East Side Monthly • December 2018
Social service organizations working in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts often face a geographical challenge. Although there might be strong demand for their services, the agencies are likely to bump up against the constraints of operating in a relatively small area – including the presence of other organizations
working with the same clients. This past June, those constraints factored into the creation of Jewish Collaborative Services (JCS), which is headquartered at 1165 North Main Street in Providence. JCS resulted from combining Jewish Family Services of Rhode Island (JFS) and Jewish Seniors Agency of Rhode Island (JSA).
Photo courtesy of Jewish Collaborative Services
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Both organizations were well-known for providing a broad range of services that include, among others, food and nutrition programs and affordable housing for the disabled and seniors. In late September, the board also elected a new president and CEO, Erin Minior. The agencies have long referred clients to each other, but their leaders recognized that the “agencies were vying for the same clientele, lay leadership, grant dollars, and donor dollars,” says Susan Bazar, chief of strategy and administration. “In a small state, we were aware that both agencies were providing social services to our constituencies which, over time, overlapped,” she notes. “Beyond this recognition, agency identity confusion prevailed. Often, clients were unclear regarding which agency to call.” Combining organizations can be a logistical nightmare, but JCS had fortunate timing. While discussions about forming JCS were underway, JFS received a bequest from the Grace K. and Wesley S. Alpert Foundation. Minior explains that the bequest paid for the purchase and renovation of its new headquarters on North Main Street. As the agencies combined, both moved their operations, along with JSA’s case kosher food pantry, into the newly renovated building. “Service provision was seamless – that was a priority from inception,” Minior adds. Back office integration started before moving and that step was key to operations integration. From a cultural perspective, staff integration was more challenging, Minior admits, but the agencies share a client-centric focus, which made the integration easier. “So, by the time we moved in together, staff was energized and poised to realize our full potential,” says Minior. “A ‘stronger together’ mentality prevailed that has served our staff, clientele and board well.” Facebook: Jewish Collaborative Services
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Community East Side News
Mothers’ Days
A support group for new moms celebrates 10 years By Emily Howe
After a decade of helping women adapt to motherhood, RI New Moms Connection celebrated at Knead Donuts
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
“Is the baby sleeping through the night?” “Are you nursing?” “When are you having another?” These are typical questions for new mothers – but some of the most important questions are often unasked: “What can I do to help?” Or: “When can I come over to
hold the baby so you can shower?” These are the kinds of things you hear at RI New Moms Connection, a group founded by veteran moms Kathleen McGuian and Kristen Kardos. RI New Moms Connection celebrated its 10-year anniversary in October at Knead
Photo courtesy of RI New Moms Connection
studio hop
Celebrate Your Family in Pictures!
Donuts on Elmgrove Avenue. The bakery was filled with moms and babies; for many, the party was a reunion. Some moms have moved away, while others have remained, keeping in touch with women they first met shortly after giving birth. “We met as new moms and openly shared our challenges and supported one another,” said Kardos. “We realized there was a need in Rhode Island for a non-judgmental place where mamas could come together to share vulnerably their experiences and build community.” “Twelve years ago, Kristen and I had each recently given birth to our first babies and, therefore, we intimately knew the challenges and vulnerabilities women face during the postpartum period,” added McGuian. “We each had received support from new moms’ groups and recognized how important the groups were for us, and [we] also recognized how little support is available for new moms. We wanted to help fill the void.” Both women bring rich professional experience to the group: Kardos is a longtime educator and postpartum doula, trained by Doulas of North America (DONA). McGuian is a social worker and member of the Board of Directors for the Brown Play School. Groups get together for six- to eight-week cycles, and each group includes at least six mothers and babies. Infants range from newborns to 24-month-old toddlers. Connections does charge a fee to attend – from $96 to $128 per session – but Kardos and McGuian also provide scholarships and reduced rates for those who cannot afford the cost of a session. “Our groups attract supportive, non-judgmental, compassionate, thoughtful, amazing women,” said McGuian, “and so I’m always excited to build relationships with each new group and to watch the relationships form among the mamas.” RINewMoms.com
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Community East Side News
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The Archives Artist
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
A veteran documentary filmmaker now organizes and curates RIHS’ vast trove of archival footage
“The job was too good to pass up,” says Becca Bender, the new film archivist and curator for the Rhode Island Historical Society. “The job is totally varied. Sometimes I’m just working with the film, with Q-tips and X-acto knives. And sometimes I’m working to build a video digitization rack. And then I’m having
meetings with the education department, and I’m looking for film to use in their lesson plans...” Bender has loved film since she was a child, growing up in Acton, Massachusetts. She majored in film production and history at Vassar, and she worked in Hollywood for a couple of years before settling in New
Photo courtesy of Becca Bender
This sweet girl is Fran. I do mean sweet! She is named for Frangipane, a delicious almond pastry filling. Being Fran’s fur mom is a Pastry Chef, they thought it was a great name for their nutty pup. In addition to being a regular member of our Wagging Trails group, Fran competes with the National Association of Canine Scentwork. She has titles from the first and second level (NW1 & NW2). Sweet and smart too!
York, where she focused on documentaries. But it wasn’t until Bender helped produce a Frontline episode about September 11 for PBS that she found a passion for historical footage. “I always had an interest in archival stuff,” recalls Bender, “but for this 9/11 project I became an assistant to the archival researcher, and immediately I was like, ‘This makes sense to me.’” To become a film archivist, Bender had to learn the history of cinema technology, from crank-cameras to digital video, as well as preservation techniques. She completed a rigorous film preservation program at NYU. In conversation, her expertise is palpable. “Any type of moving image, you’re basically fighting against things degrading,” she says. “In truth, if you take film, video, and digital, film is actually the most stable, even though it’s the oldest. If you keep film in a relatively cool, dry place, it’s pretty much fine. And you can pick it up and look at it. I can see that image, I can scan that image, I can shine light through it. Whereas if you take a video tape, you’re looking at a piece of brown tape covered in magnetic particles.” Bender has big plans for the Historical Society, including educational engagements, archival movie screenings, and even “home movie nights,” where 8mm films and VHS tapes will reveal daily life in Rhode Island households. Despite the treasure trove of raw material – including nine million feet of film, shot by local stations WJAR and WPRI – Bender feels no compulsion to produce her own works anymore. “I want to be the best friend of Rhode Island documentary filmmakers,” she says with a laugh. “Like, come and bring your projects! We have most of the Twentieth Century here.” RIHS.org
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Women Run. Results Driven.
Community In The Know By Barry Fain
A Sad Goodbye
classical work. He is also acknowledged as an
The announcement that Nordstrom will be
outstanding jazz pianist – and he proved it. In
closing their store on January 4 of this year is
response to questions after the concert, Tovey
sad news for all of us. The well-respected de-
expects there will be many more opportunities
partment store had been an anchor of Provi-
to mix in some unexpected touches to tradi-
dence Place Mall for the past 20 years. Along
tional classics over the upcoming seasons of
with its wide array of merchandise, Nordstrom
his leadership here. We can’t wait.
also housed one of the best-kept restaurant secrets of our city, with its eye-popping views
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of the state house and the East Side, its hand-
And the Winners Are...
some interior, and its selection of varied but
The midterm elections provided plenty of
reasonably priced food options. Boscov, a
heat, a very mixed outcome, and the recogni-
Pennsylvania-based department store, which
tion that the divisiveness in our country will get
has been growing rapidly and now has 46 lo-
worse before it gets better. Some takeaways:
cations across the northeast, will be the new
The Dems now need to go into overdrive and
tenant, and hopes to be open before the end
begin focusing on their potential leaders for
of 2019. While the new chain will carry a range
the future. But clearly their commitment to
of brand name fashion, it will also offer furni-
women candidates paid dividends with 112
ture, toys, and other merchandise. Checking
elected nationally. The best news for the Party,
their website, we also learned that they are the
of course, is winning the House, which means
named sponsor of something called the Bos-
they can make the case that neither trickle-
cov Berks Jazz Festival held every spring in
down economics nor massive government
Berks County, PA, near Reading, which draws
spending that ignores the white middle class
35,000 to 40,000 attendees. Hmmm. Given
is the answer, and a third path needs to be de-
the storied musical tradition of Newport, the
veloped. It also means the Mueller investiga-
Boscov PVD Jazz Festival has a nice ring to it.
tion will go on unimpeded and perhaps some-
That said, the loss of Nordstrom is a tough one
day, hopefully before 2020, we all may actually
for our beloved Capital City.
get to see Trump’s tax returns. Although many Democrats’ top hopes were defeated in Tex-
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In its first concert under the leadership of its
harness the energy of these new faces. None
newly selected music director Bramwell Tov-
of this applies to us here in the Ocean State,
ey, the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra
which remains one of the country’s last true,
provided a lively and energetic start for what
one-party states, where only one Democratic
undoubtedly will be several years of musical
incumbent out of 113 in our General Assembly
twists and surprises. While Tovey did not have
was defeated this year. And it took a sexual
a role in the selection of the program, which
harassment charge to even get him voted out.
featured works by two mid-21st century com-
Ah, Rhode Island.
posers – George Gershwin and German-born Paul Hindemith – his wit, banter, and musician-
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
ship were all clearly on display in an enjoyable
A Vigil to Remember
evening of 20th century music punctuated by
Let me add my own personal thank you to
an array of unusual symphonic instruments, in-
the interfaith community that presented such
cluding saxophones and a banjo. Yet, in an un-
a meaningful vigil in support of the Pitts-
expected turn of events, it was the sight of the
burgh Jewish Community. Led by leaders of
maestro himself plopping down to join the solo
the Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim
artist, Julliard-trained Aaron Diehl, that brought
faiths, this moving candlelit event attracted a
the crowd to its feet. The British-born Tovey,
huge crowd to the JCC on Elmgrove Avenue,
the former music director of the Vancouver
reaffirming that an attack on anyone’s religion
Symphony and still head of the BBC Orches-
is an attack on all of us. Made me proud to be
tra, has won Grammy’s and other awards for his
a Rhode Islander.
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Community Neighborhood News
Neighborhood News is a space that East Side Monthly makes available to community organizations free of charge. The content does not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of this publication.
The running trail through the East Side remains pristine and beautiful, thanks to volunteers at the Blackstone Parks Conservancy
Photo courtesy of Blackstone Park Conservancy
College Hill Neighborhood Association The College Hill Neighborhood Association will be holding its annual Holiday Party at the Lippitt Mansion on December 3 beginning at 6pm. While we’re still working on the final details, we can assure our neighbors there will be plenty of food, drink, good conversation, companionship, and we promise it WILL be festive. The event is open to all residents of College Hill, though we generally aren’t sticklers on the boundaries and welcome adjoining neighbors who are also concerned about protecting and preserving this wonderful section of the city we all call home. There is no charge to attend the party, though any end of the year contributions to CHNA are of course welcome. CHNA joined many other local organizations and residents who appeared at City Hall on October 22 to oppose the size and scale of the proposed Fane Building on the westernmost portion of the I-195 land. Like most of the other objectors who came to represent their views at the City Council’s Ordinance Committee meeting, we have no problems with the proposal itself. What is unacceptable to us is the out of scale size of the building which does not remotely conform to the development guidelines the city adopted just a few years ago. To change them so quickly for this one project would represent an unacceptable example of spot zoning that undermines both the process and the need for its enforcement by our elected officials. At last month’s board meeting, the CHNA heard an interesting (and troubling) presentation from several downtown advocates who warned of ongoing abuses of so-called late-night catering regulations that allow clubs to serve liquor and remain open long past official 2am closing time. Any expansion of late-night hours that might impact our community, given the existing student and residential nature of our neighborhood, would be of major concern to us. For more information about joining and
supporting CHNA and meeting your neighbors, contact: College Hill Neighborhood Association, PO Box 2442, Providence, RI 02906 or CHNA@ CHNAProvidence.org. –Barry Fain
Summit Neighborhood Association Snow Brigade Snow is coming! SNA will once again be organizing a neighborhood Snow Brigade to help out our neighbors-in-need during the coming winter. We are looking for both shovelers and shovelees. Please us know if you (or a neighbor you know) are physically unable to remove snow, don’t have friends or family to do this for you, and have difficulty affording paying someone to remove your snow. Send an email to SNASnow@gmail.com and we will add you to the list. We also need volunteers to shovel. If there’s an able-bodied person in your
household who would like to get some exercise and the warm feeling you get from helping a neighbor, please let us know by sending an email to SNAsnow@gmail.com. Shovelers work in teams, trading off twoweek shifts so that nobody has to commit for the entire winter. Project Leaders and Helpers Wanted! Through our neighborhood survey feedback, outreach to our members, and lively discussions at our Board of Directors meetings, we’ve identified a great list of potential neighborhood projects and programs to pursue as an organization in 2019 and onward. We’ll be moving forward with a number of new initiatives, but some are still in need of volunteer project leaders and project helpers. If you’re inspired to serve the community in ways small or large and want to learn more about how you can make a difference, please do reach out to us at SNAProv@gmail.com!
East Side Monthly • December 2018 23
Community Neighborhood News
Have something to say about an event, a new business, or any topic that would resonate with the neighborhood? Please contact us for more information! Summit Neighborhood Association, PO Box 41092, Providence, RI 02940, SummitNeighbors.org
Members and Volunteer Writers As always, we welcome new members who are interested in supporting our neighborhood events, community projects, candidate forums, and advocacy. Memberships are affordable, and you can sign up at SummitNeighbors.org. Additionally, SNA is always seeking local content for our long-running neighborhood newsletter.
JUMP Bikes Largely Welcomed in Fox Point In early Fall 2018, the City of Providence placed 400 JUMP bicycles all over the city, with several hubs in Fox Point. The rental bikes operate with conventional pedaling or with so-called pedal-assist technology, which according to JUMP, feels like riding a regular bike “but with super powers.” With a few taps on a smartphone, a rider can
Fox Point Neighborhood Association
locate a bike, unlock it, and pay for use— and when finished, lock the bike at a JUMP stand or at any public bike rack. This hubbased system “provides the best of both worlds,” commented Martina Haggerty, Associate Director of Special Projects for the City of Providence Department of Planning and Development, since it offers flexibility without compromising predictability. “We are thrilled to partner with JUMP,” she added, “to give Providence residents and visitors a fun, sustainable way to get around Providence.” Fox Point neighbors have largely welcomed the bikes. One resident tested the bikes in early October on a family jaunt from Wayland Square to Seven Stars bakery on Hope Street. “They’re fun,” she reported, noting that the motorized assistance kicked just when she wanted it. Another neighbor appreciated the
Fox Point welcomes the new fleet of power-assisted bicycles, courtesy of the JUMP ride-share program
24
East Side Monthly • December 2018
Photo courtesy of Fox Point Neighborhood Association
Residents Invited to Connect with Us The SNA Board of Directors meets at 7pm on the third Monday of every month in the cafeteria of Summit Commons, 99 Hillside Avenue. The sessions are open and neighborhood residents are encouraged to attend! You can also stay in touch with us on Facebook via the “Summit Neighborhood Association” page, our website at SummitNeighbors.org, or on Instagram and Twitter @SNAProv.
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convenience of the pedal-assist technology in certain areas of the East Side. “It’s a great idea for a town with hills,” he commented. Complaints relate more to the placement of the bike stands in the neighborhood than to the existence of the bikes, themselves. One Fox Point neighbor objected to the prominence of the stands in George M. Cohan Square, on Wickenden Street near Vartan Gregorian School, where the widely spaced structures break up the open space used for congregating and in recent summers, used for seating for the Fox Point Folk Fest. “The whole outfit... is an eyesore,” he commented, adding that the arrangement of the stands “annexes the local plaza.” Overall, however, the City has received positive feedback about the program. “Many people have experienced bike share programs in other cities,” noted Haggerty, “and are excited that we have brought this transportation option to Providence.” For more information on the bikes, see the JUMP-Providence site, at https://bit.ly/2yiEoaf. Events this Month Monthly Meeting, Monday, December 10 at 7pm, in the Community Room of the Vartan Gregorian Elementary School, 455 Wickenden Street. The Fox Point Neighborhood Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Fox Point and protecting its historic integrity and resources. FPNA speaks out on neighborhood issues and builds community through local events. Please sign up for our mailing list and join us at a monthly meeting! –Amy Mendillo
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Wayland Square Neighborhood Association The Wayland Square Neighborhood Association is a community group bringing together the residents and merchants of the Wayland Square neighborhood. We meet on the second Tuesday of the month from 6-7:30pm at various spots around the square to discuss issues facing our neighborhood, work together on improvements, and grow together as a community. We post all neighborhood news, goings
on, and meeting locations on our Facebook Page. Wayland Square Neighborhood Association, Facebook: Wayland Square Neighborhood Association. –Marti Del Negro
The Mount Hope Neighborhood Association The Mount Hope Dialogues for Action (MHDA) under the Mount Hope Neighborhood Association (MHNA) has put the Sharing Garden and the Vincent Brown Rec Center to bed. However, we plan to open the garden for composting on Saturday at noon. Please come and make deposits! Stinky vegetable scraps and egg shells turning into rich luscious soil with potential for growth and growth of yummy edibles. In addition to the mini-orchard with pear and cherry trees, raspberry, and blueberry bushes, we have planted strawberries this year! Looking forward to that harvest in Spring! We anticipate that because of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays we will not hold the Food Security and MHDA meetings on Thursday, November 29 at 5pm and 6pm respectively, the Housing Coalition meeting on December 8 at 5pm, and the MHNA board Thursday December 20 at 6pm. All will be held at MHNA, 199 Camp Street. Call to confirm, 401-5218830. –Courtesy of the MHDA
Blackstone Parks Conservancy Boulevard Update South Garden Progress After a summer that oscillated between drought and flood, hot and cold, crisp autumn days brought relief to runners and walkers on the Boulevard path. Those rounding the south end come upon the secluded garden that anchors the 1.6-mile park. If people see a woman weeding or planting and say, as some do, “Thanks for doing this,” they are rewarded with the warm smile of volunteer Peggy Edwards. Peggy is one of the volunteers who work on Blackstone Parks Conservancy (BPC) projects for no pay and little glory, but for
It’s the Ultimate Home Entertainment! Create an amazing media room with a Sony 4K projector! fun. Don Cordner, Pam Lietar, and Cynthia Bertozzi have all pitched in in recent years to tend the Boulevard gardens, and Swan Point staff has come to the rescue at the Trolley Shelter garden several times. Peggy is the first gardener in some time who has been dedicated to the South Garden Since Peggy assumed the care of the South Garden in 2015, extensive weed cover has gradually disappeared, and bushes and flowers have flourished as never before. A trained horticulturist focused on public gardens, Peggy was horticulturist of Cincinnati Parks and Recreation for several years and later assistant horticulturist at Blithewold for a time. Now settled in Rhode Island since 2008, Peggy prefers being identified simply as “Gardener.” She fits the care of the South garden in with her private garden work. When clients and friends offer plants, she accepts the native species preferred by the Conservancy – Joe Pye and Ironweed, Echinacea and Bee Balm among others – and tucks them into the Boulevard garden. Next year she plans to install labels to help passersby identify what they are seeing. Path Test The 30-foot yellow-taped section of the Boulevard Path at Upton that you may have noticed is test paving being tried out by the Conservancy and the Parks Department in the search for a more porous material. The hope is that, in addition to allowing some water to be absorbed, it will feel good beneath the feet of walkers and runners. By December, the stabilizer used to hold the stone dust will probably have set, and this section can be used again. Healthy Urban Green Space for All Please send Eastside Marketplace receipts to the Conservancy. Blackstone Parks Conservancy Phone Number: 401-270-3014 Website: BlackstoneParksConservancy.org Email Address: JaneAnnPeterson@gmail.com Mailing Address: P.O. Box 603141, Providence, RI 02906 - Jane Peterson
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Community Rhody Gem
Wayland Bakery Cookie Trays and More We are pleased to introduce Rhody Gem, a new monthly column in East Side Monthly. We’re always being thanked for spotlighting the “hidden gems” of the state, and in our ongoing efforts to leave no stone unturned, we’re putting the call out to our readership! Each month we’ll spotlight a Rhody Gem: a business, artisan, or place sent to us by our faithful readers. What it is: Wayland Bakery is a good old-fashioned bake shop and neighborhood institution. A step inside feels like a step back in time, reminiscent of a spot your nana might take you to elevate a weekday afternoon into a special occasion – in fact, the business has a connection to a wedding cake created for the 1953 nuptials of JFK and Jackie. Owners Luis and Elizabeth Rodriguez are nice and welcoming, and everything is baked on premises and of the highest quality. There’s a delicious assortment of pastries, bread, sandwiches, pies, cookies, and calzones.
Photography by Michael Cevoli
Where to find it: Look for the retro sign with a yellow arrow on Wayland Avenue, just past East Manning Street and before Waterman. What makes it a Rhody Gem? Every December Wayland Bakery makes and stocks amazing cookie trays that are two pounds of confectionary deliciousness. It’s always best to order ahead as they disappear quickly from the shelves.
Wayland Bakery 138 Wayland Avenue 421-2900 To submit your Rhody Gem please email: Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com
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Girls Rock! Rhode Island brings empowerment and inclusivity to aspiring rockers of all ages By Ava Callery
I
N a small but mighty office space in
gig-flyers, and every kind of cable you
sets at one time. Sometimes you will hear
the historic district of Westminster
can plug into something and send music
melodic voices, sometimes you will hear
Street, you will find the walls lined with
through. The carpets are wide and open to
powerful screams, and sometimes you’ll
anything but traditional office sup-
musicians of all expertise, and can support
hear nothing but the buzz from a monitor
plies: guitars from all decades, amps,
sometimes nearly up to six complete drum
– welcome to Girls Rock! Rhode Island.
In 2001, founding Executive Director Hilary Jones first heard of Girls Rock! while attending college in Portland, Oregon. She had always taken a liking to youth development and leadership programs, but never saw it combined with the same passion for music until she saw the non-profit organization on MTV (back when MTV was cool). Six years later, when Jones moved to the East Coast for graduate school, there were only a handful of Girls Rock! bases throughout the whole country. After volunteering with the organization for the first time in Brooklyn, she knew that it was exactly what Providence was missing. Girls Rock! Rhode Island first opened its doors in 2009, and since then has served over 1,000 participants through their flagship programs and thousands more through their events, performances, and with support from the community. “When we say ‘Girls Rock,’ it’s with a wink and a nod,” Jones says. Welcoming all female, trans, and non-binary individuals, GR!RI invites anyone with the slightest interest in music to exist in a space where a sense-of-self can thrive – and rock. Jones is no stranger to musicianship, having played an instrument for more years of her life than not. Through experiences with traditional lessons (shout-out to the middle school clarinet players) and her own bands, she knew that Girls Rock! offered something that wasn’t necessarily offered to her as a growing musician. “When I first picked up the guitar, I realized I could sing and write the songs I wanted to,” she says. With that
same notion, Jones has organized a series of camps, discussion groups, drop-ins, and workshops all designed to develop one’s identity through the power of music. The non-profit organization, celebrating a decade in Rhode Island within the year, offers just about any form of music experience from age 11 and above. There’s Girls Rock Camp, which is an intensive one-week day camp that will allow young participants to learn an instrument, form a band, write an original song, and perform it in front of an audience. Ladies Rock Camp takes a similar structure and offers it to the “grown-up rocker” during a long-weekend of lessons, songwriting, band practice, and workshops. Each session invites anyone – no prior musical experience necessary – to step out of their comfort zone and into a space that allows them to use music as a vehicle for empowerment. “Empowerment is a weird, fraught word,” Jones says. “When you empower yourself through music, you can use it as a tool. That’s when empowerment can mean for the individual – creating a voice and advocating yourself or for the
Photos by Cat Laine and Keri Dennison-Leidecker, courtesy of Girls Rock! Rhode Island
community – making change in the world around you.” Outside of their camps, Girls Rock! Rhode Island offers a series of other individual- and community-centered programs. Gear Share & Show & Tell is a weekly discussion where participants have a chance to learn all about wobblily sounding guitars, looping petals, and all the spices found in a musical soup. There’s Youth Drop-In, where youth ages 11-18 can meet up with peers, talk about relevant issues and try out instruments they may have never picked up before. There’s even a Gear Loan program that allows campers and volunteers to borrow music equipment throughout the year. “We’re constantly seeing returning alum take on leadership positions and organize their own workshops,” Jones explains, “which is what Girls Rock is all about.” An example of this can be their weekly youth-led Gender Discussion Group. Open to all female, trans, and gender non-conforming participants at the high school level, these discussions are curated by the group, for the group. One week there might be a conversation about healthy relationships and self-expression, while the next week might be entirely dictated by what the Kardashians are up to. Limitless beyond the musical realm, Jones explains that these sessions at GR!RI are about “creating a space where empowerment can thrive through self-expression and connection to the world around you.” So what exactly does the future look like after Girls Rock? For some, it’s opening for national acts – as the GR!RI band Wavelength did this past summer at Burnside Park. For others, it may look like stepping in on a Monday afternoon for a Group Lesson on an instrument they’ve never played before. Someone may decide that they want to take a non-music perspective, but still be involved in Girls Rock! experience by becoming a volunteer, running social media, or even just being a helping hand with equipment – let’s be honest, when you’re a rock star, there’s nothing better than a good roadie. Jones says that the creation of a band at the end of a week-long session is merely a fraction of the Girls Rock! experience. She says, “If our participants can accomplish things that they once thought they couldn’t do, then we’ve done our job.” GirlsRockRI.org
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East Side Monthly • December 2018 33
HOPE HOLI DAYS FOR THE
Old and new holiday celebrations across the East Side
Photo courtesy of Christine Chitnis
By Guy Benoit
With Christmas and Hanukkah soon to arrive, it’s a pleasure to note that the East Side maintains such versatility, transforming from season to season with a wonderful utility. The beautiful neighborhoods offer a variety of seasonal fun, each with distinctive qualities that make Providence such an uncommonly cool city. Wayland Square has always claimed a homey feel, with mom and pop shops, such as Minerva’s Pizza, Paper Nautilus, and Books on The Square, abutting national outfits like Starbucks and CVS. It’s a friendly vibe, with pleasant collisions of cultures occurring - sushi restaurants preparing tamago and Philly rolls right alongside a 1960s-style diner serving home fries and pancakes and hip bookstores offering printed esoterica next to Starbucks pouring Iced Grande Chai Lattes. On the first day of December , the denizens of Wayland Square will start the month off with a glow. “We’re hoping to kick off December 1 with a tree lighting,” says the energetic Jessica Leach, who, along with Marti Del Negro, is organizing holiday events in Wayland Square in cooperation with local merchants. “We’re getting eight individual trees in front of L’Artisan.” Leach and Del Negro are also working with nearby McBride’s Pub to make the evening especially memorable. “McBride’s been doing this party for thirty years. Even before they had the bar. It’s based on the New York Sun editorial, ‘Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus...’
People can go right from that party out to the lighting,” says Del Negro. The gathering at McBride’s and the tree lighting are part of the first annual “walking gallery” done in cooperation with regional businesses. According to Leach, the attractive streets twisting through Wayland and Elmgrove will showcase pieces created by the talented kids at Moses Brown and Wheeler. “Certain shops and restaurants will display artwork, depending on the space available. Some will have the artwork just in the windows. Others will have 3D installations,” adds Leach. On nearby Taft Street in the Blackstone neighborhood, one encounters the sturdily handsome Temple Emanu-El. This synagogue has been a mainstay of the Jewish faith on the East Side since 1924 and offers an open door to anyone looking to belong to a long-respected community. On December 8, also known as the sixth day of Hanukkah, the fine folks at the esteemed Temple will host the truly inspired Hanukkah Hoedown. This lively celebration will start at 6pm with the lighting of the menorah followed by a light meal. All this leads up to an authentic square dance. Themed decorations playfully combining elements of traditional Judaism and country and western rave-ups will be on display. On December 16, walk down College Hill to discover that the venerable First Baptist Church, placidly looming over North Main Street since 1638, presenting an afternoon
Photo (left) courtesy of McBride’s Irish Pub, photo (right) courtesy of Providence Flea
Christmas Concert featuring the church’s orchestra, choir, and soloists. Selections include baroque pieces by composers Dieterich Buxtehude, Johann Kuhnau, and George Frideric Handel, as well as Christmas carols. Music begins at 2pm, free although donations are accepted. Immediately before or after the First Baptist Church’s Christmas Concert, stop by Dave’s Coffee on South Main Street. This friendly neighborhood cafe is firmly dedicated to fine brews, inclusivity, and open-mindedness. Dave’s provides tasty coffee, delicious pastries, and dozens of other foodie-type selections. This coffee shop has been known to whip up homemade marshmallows on the very premises to add to their hot chocolate. A gorgeous Victorian on Hope Street, The Lippitt House Museum will present its annual Christmas Scotch Party, during which revelers can sip, sample, and savor high end liquors. That goes down on December 6. This soiree encourages visitors to create decorations–Victorian style, using paper and aluminum. Relax in a cozy nook as you read a tome full of Victorian Christmas tales while enjoying a classic holiday treat of milk and cookies. During the celebration, you can also tour the festooned Lippitt House Museum. At 324 Hope Street, better known to some as Hope High School, hip holiday shoppers must dig into the 6th Annual Holiday Markets sponsored by The Providence Flea. Taking place on three Sundays and a Saturday – December 2, 9, 15, and 16 – rotating line-ups of vendors, over 150 in all, will sell vintage treasures alongside handcrafted one-of-a-kinds. Score a handmade scarf, a poinsettia, a Johnny Mathis album, and a Christmas ornament made of repurposed clothespins, all in the same morning. They’ll be food trucks and plenty of bargains to be had. On the other end of Hope where things get commercial there’s also the Holiday Stroll, fom noon to 6pm on December 2. This family friendly event will have food trucks, a roster of live performers, and local vendors. Mark your calendar for December 21 for Wickenden Wonderland. The eclectic street gets especially festive starting with a procession led by live musicians from The Point Tavern
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to George M. Cohan Square; the evening commences with caroling, hot chocolate, and a tree lighting. Finally, there are plenty of people who use the holidays to spend time with family and friends. As always, the inventive and friendly inhabitants of the East Side can be counted on to celebrate the holidays in wonderful ways. The Galpern family of the Summit neighborhood choose to celebrate with a neighboring family. Interfaith couples (comprising Jewish, Baptist, and Catholic traditions) with powerful creative inclinations and bright, friendly kids, they’ve been known to warm up festivities with a combination bingo game/Yankee swap for inexpensive presents. “Creating our own family traditions is important to Fred and me,“ says Jennifer
Photo courtesy of Lippitt House
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Lippitt House dresses up for the holidays for a very Victorian Christmas
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Looking for after school care? Welcome to J-Space! Galpern. “We have tried to incorporate things from both our backgrounds, some have worked, some have not. We celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas, which the kids love because it makes present season last from their birthdays in November all the way through the end of the year! We have an amazing group of friends, our “chosen family” that we celebrate with on Christmas day.” The Galpern festivities generally include an elaborate brunch of crepes. One family member’s date of birth falls on December 25 and so a birthday celebration is incorporated. Says Jennifer, “It’s an exciting occasion, one that mixes long standing traditions with new ideas to vibrant effect. Perfectly at home in Providence. At sundown, everybody has Chinese food.”
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Contact Shannon for more information: 401.421.4111 ext. 147 or skockanek@jewishallianceri.org
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401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | jewishallianceri.org East Side Monthly • December 2018 39
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Happy Holidays
TO ALL THE NEW EAST SIDE HOMEOWNERS 30 Abbottsford 38 Alfred Stone 95 Alumni 6 Alton 546 Angell #2B 597 Angell 201 Arlington 106 Blackstone #6 39 Chace 119 Congdon
68 Dexterdale 297 Doyle 35 Eames 520 East 43 East Orchard 226 Eighth 41 Elmway 25 Faunce 26 Glen 38 Glendale
163 Governor 81 Hazard 3 Hidden 214 Highland 603 Hope 944 Hope 14 Imperial #302 18 Imperial #3D, 5D 282 Ives 76 Ivy #1
76 Ivy #2 48 Lloyd 103 Lloyd 221 Morris 457 Morris 10 Oak Hill 30 Old Tannery 13 Phillips 47 Pitman 44 Pratt
KEVIN FOX 401.688.5556
KFox@residentialproperties.com ResidentialProperties.com *Per MLS sales by Kevin Fox 1/1/18 - 11/30/18
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
100 Pratt 56 President 156 Prospect #3 348 Slater 353 Slater 521 South Main #309 116 Upton 270 Waterman 320 Wayland #2 5 Woodbury
CLOSE TO HOME Home and Family | Education
At Home on the East Side
Cottage Industry
A decorative painter keeps busy in her historic home By Elyse Major
Chances are good that you’ve done a double-take at the sight of the little red house on Rochambeau Avenue. That’s exactly what happened to Nancy Sherren, who daydreamed about the humble property until spotting a For Sale sign. Going against the concerns of friends over buying a house built in 1793, she trusted her gut and says, “I have enjoyed not only living in the house but all of the various projects on the house. I think it was truly meant to be!” For 27 years, Sherren, husband Jim Feeley, and their poodle Buddy have made the Morris Brown House Photography by Grace Lentini
their own. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the vernacular farmhouse with a gambrel roof has three rooms on the first floor and three on the second. Through the years the couple has made various modifications for comfort, but for decorating, Sherren tries to keep the interior as historically faithful as possible, which means adhering to a period style known as Fancy. “This was the time after the American Revolution and during the start of the Industrial Revolution. People had the opportunity to purchase some manufactured goods and
had some financial income to do it with,” she says, noting, “I do not buy high-end antiques. They wouldn’t look right in an old farmhouse. I do like to collect farming tools; I love the yokes hanging by the patio.” From the home, Sherren creates and sells hand-painted mats in a business named for its first owner: Morris Brown House Floorcloths (MBHouseLtd. com). “Sometimes I look at my house from the outside and, considering the gambrel shape of the house, think it looks like a red mother hen sitting on her roost, and I am a lucky chick sheltered under her wings.”
Want your home featured in East Side Monthly? Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com to learn more
Close to Home Education
The Rapping Bard
Shakespeare to Hip Hop introduces middle and high schoolers to the classical canon
Most people would balk at the idea of comparing William Shakespeare and Dr. Dre. But both men came from humble origins. They both grew up in bustling, violent cities. They both became experts in metered language and rhythmic performance. They both told stories of passionate heroes, corrupt authority figures, and tragic downfalls. And they both developed the creative language of an entire culture, inspiring generations of artists around the world. These crossovers inform Shakespeare to Hip Hop, a touring educational program that visits schools across Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Created by Providence-based renaissance man Marlon Carey and renowned poet Regie Gibson, Shakespeare to Hip Hop explores the works
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
of the Bard in the cant of urban freestyling. “I always liked words,” says Carey. “I was a smart kid, always reading. My grandfather was a Pentecostal preacher. I was raised with the power of the word. And I was drawn to the fact that my grandfather was a healer, an inspirer.” Carey’s grandmother also founded a basic school in her native Jamaica, before the family moved to New York City and later Dorchester, Massachusetts. Carey gives credit to his teachers at Fenway High School – an early pilot school – for cultivating his interest in literature. He went on to study writing at St. Andrews College, has taught workshops for GrubStreet, has served as a radio DJ, has released original albums, and won a host of slam
Photo by Salma Kilouay, courtesy of Shakespeare to Hip Hop
By Robert Isenberg
poetry awards. Carey met Gibson at the Lizard Lounge, a Boston nightclub famous for its poetry events. Among slam artists, Gibson is a legend: He appeared on the HBO series Def Poetry Jam, has won international awards, and inspired the 1997 indie film Love Jones. (He also appears in the film). One of Gibson’s endorsements came from no less a personage than Kurt Vonnegut: “Regie, you sing and chant for all of us. Nobody gets left out.” The two artists had considered a traveling show called From Homer to Hip Hop, but after a successful engagement at the Boston Public Library, where they were invited to riff on Shakespeare’s monologues to celebrate the playwright’s 450th birthday, they decided to focus on the man from Avon. To date, Shakespeare to Hip Hop has performed for nearly a dozen schools in Rhode Island. For each engagement, Gibson and Carey describe Shakespeare’s life and work, then perform a variety of musical sketches – a “rap battle” between Iago and Lady MacBeth, a Country-Western song based on the “Dark Lady” sonnets, and one soliloquy set to the melody of Fresh Prince of Bel Air. The pair conscripts two to four instrumentalists per show, and they rehearse “wherever we can.” Most of their RI performances have taken place in private schools. But the response has been positive, and Carey hopes to take the show to lower-income communities. “They overwhelmingly think it’s wonderful,” Carey says. “We were worried, at one point, that the material would be over the heads of kids in fifth grade. But again, the musicality, the humor, some of the costumes – it’s great for people who are familiar with the text, and people who are not familiar with the text. We can adjust the set. We’re able to engage on a number of different levels.” ShakespeareToHipHop.com
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East Side Monthly • December 2018 43
Close to Home East of Elmgrove
Memory Lane
A former East Side nomad retraces her steps on Blackstone Boulevard
The first time I walked Blackstone Boulevard, I wore a Walkman (for those too young to remember, it was a portable tape player with headphones, kind of like the iPod of 30plus years ago). I lived a couple of blocks away from the path on the top floor of a three-family apartment, rather atypical for the elegant neighborhood of spacious, single-family properties. Frank Black’s Teenager of the Year was my soundtrack. I’d press rewind on the device to return the tape to the first track, wait for that click to signal it was ready, push “play,” and off I’d go. I’d moved myself to Providence in the mid’80s in what might be called a “Gap Year” today, but it was actually a period of academic and vocational confusion. Previously, I was a student at UMass Dartmouth, né SMU, and skipped any classes necessary for more air time on the college’s alternative radio station, WUMD, né WUSM. My friends and I were immersed in the
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
Providence music scene, and I wanted to be in the thick of the action, so I left school and got a job on Thayer Street, that then-hub of trendycool. I also acquired gigs spinning records at music clubs like the Living Room and the Cage, before becoming the regular DJ on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights at punk club The Rocket. I’d play my favorite vinyl LPs as loud as possible before, after, and between live music. A series of twenty-something life changes led to various moves on the East Side. There was the noisy corner of Prospect and Olney, the refurbished apartment on lower Medway, the charmer with French doors and a stained glass window on upper Medway, and then the character-rich three-bedroom with a soapstone sink on Cole, a stone’s throw from the Boulevard. Through these uncertain, coming-of-age years, the city changed and transformed – as did I. The Angell Street Newport Creamery became a CVS, Thayer Market became a CVS, and Wayland Square’s
original CVS became many things and is now Pasta Beach. A constant, through all of these changes, is the Blackstone Boulevard walking path, that reliable place to clear one’s head. I like to begin where Hope meets Blackstone. People run, jog, and push strollers, but I prefer to walk at a good pace, taking in the unspoiled beauty. The lane is dappled with leafy trees and flanked by stone walls and stately houses. To traverse the entire loop is 4.64 miles, so it’s a nice workout, even if you’re taking it slow. The route is a visual scavenger hunt of flowering shrubs, scattered acorns, crab apples, twigs, and leaves. The path itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and you’ll pass significant landmarks, like the statue of a young girl, Constance Witherby, or the fieldstone shelter that used to serve as a trolley stop. A new-to-me feature was a cobbled lost-and-found box, which seemed poetic for such a timeless spot.
Illustration by Lia Marcoux
By Elyse Major
TRUE MARKET VALUE will never be achieved unless the property is professionally marketed to the open market
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mottandchace.com Each office is independently owned and operated East Side Monthly • December 2018 45
CUSTOM RANCH LITTLE COMPTON $634,500
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
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ON THE TOWN Restaurant and Food | Restaurant Guide | Calendar of Events
Flavor of the Month
Just Right
A bowl of porridge at The Shop is just what the season calls for
Photography by Robert Isenberg
By Robert Isenberg
The word “porridge” is rarely spoken outside of a Grimm’s faerie tale, but you can find it on the menu at The Shop in Fox Point. The base is a mix of softened grains; then the baristas add lemon and maple to the bowl, topping it with a pad of butter. Far from the flavorless gruel of yore, the Steel-Cut Oat & Buckwheat Porridge is startling; each spoonful of the steaming meal is sweet, salty, and
citrusy all at once. The Shop has occupied its little storefront for about four years; located at the summit of Wickenden Street, the cafe’s cluster of bistro tables stands a stone’s throw from the George M. Cohan Memorial. The menu is eclectic, from Chickpea Salad and Seasonal Quiche to Stewed Lentils and a Market Veggie Bowl. But once winter starts in earnest,
and patrons head inside for vegetarian meals and free Wi-Fi, the cold-weather favorite is porridge – which nicely complements a cup of espresso. “It’s very simple,” says John Paul Murton, owner-operator of The Shop. Yet you may be surprised to discover, it’s also quite filling. 460 Wickenden Street, TheShopFoxPoint.com
East Side Monthly • December 2018 47
On the Town On the Menu
Don’t wait! Shows are selling out!
Hold the Shellfish!
Where to buy Kosher on the East Side By Robert Isenberg
Tickets start at $25
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
Keeping kosher isn’t easy. The Torah is full of laws, or mitzvot, about the proper way to eat, and this dietary regimen becomes especially important around Jewish holidays. Some rules are strict (who can pick your grapes) and some rules may seem arbitrary (eating leavened bread around Passover), but there’s good news: Kosher diets are generally good for you, no matter your religious persuasion. After all, what doctor wants you to guzzle milk with your pulled-pork sandwich? There are lots of East Side restaurants that
serve kosher meals, but what about making it yourself? Where do you find the ingredients for bubbie to assemble the perfect Hanukkah meal? Rhode Island is no Brooklyn, but we do have a handful of skilled kosher purveyors. If this ancient biblical diet sounds like it’s for you, consider a chat with Rhode Island Kosher (RIKosher.org), an organization headquartered on Elmwood Avenue that offers free consultations for the kashrut-curious. RIK not only explains the nutritional benefits of keeping kosher, but consultants
Photography by Wolf Matthewson
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offer a step-by-step guide to finding local products that even King David would approve of. Here are some spots on the East Side that are worth visiting. Ahava Catering Rhode Island is overflowing with caterers, but only one of them specializes in sweet potato latkes and challah bread. Ahava Catering is based across the river, but Chef Freda Baer serves all of Southern New England. Ahava is especially keen on Jewish celebrations – Bar Mitzvahs, high holy days, and even Shabbat specials. AhavaCatering.com Bottles Fine Wine Bottles sells just about everything, from local craft beer to obscure bottles of cognac, so it should be no surprise that the Providence liquor store also sells a nice selection of kosher wines. And this isn’t just the usual Manischewitz; you can find Mademoiselle rosé, crafted in Israel, and the Sparkling Muscat, made by The Butcher’s Daughter of France, among others. 141 Pitman Street, Providence. BottlesFineWine.com
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Davis Dairy Products It doesn’t get more authentic than this: a corner shop on Hope Street, with a little awning that reads “Davis.” The store sells kosher dairy products, but you can also find jars of gefilte fish, slices of corned beef, and piles of cured lox. 721 Hope Street, Providence Eastside Marketplace To be fair, most major supermarkets have their share of kosher products, usually stocked in the ambiguous “ethnic foods” aisle. But Eastside Marketplace has its own kosher butcher, who spends Monday and Thursday mornings carving hunks of meat and fish, all under the supervision of an official mashgiach. 165 Pitman Street, Providence. EastSideMarket.com/kosher Facebook: Davis Dairy Products
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East Side Monthly • December 2018 49
MEET THE ARTISTS OPENING RECEPTION
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Our 36th annual show & sale featuring unique gifts, fine art, functional crafts and original designs from over 65 artisans.
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www.foundryshow.com 50
East Side Monthly • December 2018
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Writing • Marketing Social Media • Photography Graphic Design Red Stripe really gets neighborhood dining. Cozy yet chic, the bistro’s diverse menu features dishes typically found in a traditional French brasserie such as steak frites, moules (mussels), and short rib Bourguignon. American
favorites include hand-packed burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, grilled seafood, and housemade pasta. Everything is made from scratch at Red Stripe so you know you’re getting fresh, quality food with every visit.
Send résumé to
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465 Angell Street, Providence 437-6950, RedStripeRestaurants.com
PROVIDENCE AREA
Photography by Michael Cevoli
10 Prime Steak & Sushi Fashionable prime steakhouse with award-winning sushi. 55 Pine St, Providence, 453-2333. LD $$$ Caserta Pizzeria Casual kid-friendly pizza spot offering traditional Italian crisp-cut pizza and calzones. 121 Spruce St, Providence. 621-3818. LD $-$$ CAV Eclectic cuisine and art in a historic setting. 14 Imperial Pl, Providence, 751-9164. BrLD $$-$$$ Chapel Grille Gourmet food overlooking the Providence skyline. 3000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 944-4900. BrLD $$$ Character’s Cafe & Theatre Hybrid art space
with all-day breakfast, coffee, and theaterinspired entrees. 82 Rolfe Sq, Cranston, 4909475. BL $ Don Jose Mexican cocktails Atwells LD $-$$
Tequilas Restaurant Homestyle fare plus beer, wine, and in a colorful setting. 351 Ave, Providence, 454-8951.
Harry’s Bar & Burger Called the “Best Burger in America” by CNN. Over 50 craft beers. 121 N Main St, Providence, 228-7437; 301 Atwells Ave, 228-3336. LD $-$$ Haruki Japanese cuisine and a la carte selections with casual ambience. Locations in Cranston and Providence, HarukiSushi.com. LD $-$$
THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER Celebrate the Joyous Holiday Season With Us! Fragrant Garland • Twigs & Berries Holiday Greens & Festive Decor Beautiful Handmade Wreaths Our Own Fresh-Cut Christmas Trees
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• OPEN DAILY 9AM-6PM • 716 Mooresfield Road (Rt. 138), Wakefield 401-792-1340 • TheFarmersDaughterRI.com East Side Monthly • December 2018 51
TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR HOLIDAYS! WE DELIVER HEALTHY MEALS RIGHT TO YOUR HOME
RESTAURANT GUIDE For full restaurant profiles, go to ProvidenceOnline.com
Heng Authentic Thai street food served – including noodles and rotisserie chicken – in Providence’s College Hill neighborhood. 165 Angell St, Providence. 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 $-$$$
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Joe Marzelli’s Old Canteen Italian Restaurant High-end Italian restaurant serving up specialty dishes and drinks. 120 Atwells Ave, Providence. 751-5544. LD $$-$$$ Julian’s A must-taste Providence staple celebrating more than 20 years. 318 Broadway, Providence, 861-1770. BBrLD $$ Luigi’s Restaurant & Gourmet Express Handmade Italian classics and prepared foods to go. 1457 Hartford Ave,Johnston, 455-0045, LuigisGourmet.com. LD $$ Luxe Burger Bar Build Your Own Burger: You dream it, we build it! 5 Memorial Blvd, Providence, 621-5893. LD $
Proudly Announcing the Fall 2019 Opening of:
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roft Academy Croft Academy An honors-level, 72-seat MIDDLE SCHOOL for motivated students. Designed to instill a love of learning and prepare children for success in Rhode Island’s best public and private high schools. Now Accepting Applications for Grade 6 in Fall 2019 Located on the East Side of Providence middle.thecroftschool.org
52
East Side Monthly • December 2018
McBride’s Pub Traditional Irish pub fare in Wayland Square. 161 Wayland Ave, Providence, 751-3000. LD $$ Meeting Street Cafe BYOB eatery with large menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner served all day. 220 Meeting St, Providence, 273-1066. BLD $-$$ Mill’s Tavern Historic setting for New American gourmet. 101 N Main St, Providence, 272-3331.D $$$ Ocean State Sandwich Company Craft sandwiches and hearty sides. 155 Westminster St, Providence, 282-6772. BL $-$$ Parkside Rotisserie & Bar American bistro specializing in rotisserie meats. 76 South Main St, Providence, 331-0003. LD $-$$ Pat’s Italian Fine Italian favorites, natural steaks, and handcrafted cocktails. 1200 Hartford Ave, Johnston, 273-1444. LD $-$$$
RESTAURANT GUIDE For full restaurant profiles, go to ProvidenceOnline.com
Pizza J A fun, upbeat atmosphere with thin-crust pizza, pub fare, and gluten-free options. 967 Westminster St, Providence, 632-0555. LD$-$$ Public Kitchen & Bar American food with changing daily specials. 120 Francis St, Providence, 919-5050. BrLD $-$$ Red Stripe Casual French-American bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 437-6950; 455 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2900 BrLD $$ Siena Impeccable Italian cuisine. Locations in Providence, East Greenwich, and Smithfield, 521-3311. D $$-$$$ Sydney Providence Australianinspired cafe and coffee shop featuring breakfast and light lunch options. 400 Exchange St, Providence, 648-4994. BL $-$$ Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille Classic Italian cuisine with an extensive wine and beer list. 970 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, 349 4979.LD $-$$ The Grange Vegetarian restaurant serving seasonal dishes with a juice bar, vegan bakery, and cocktail bar. 166 Broadway, Providence, 831-0600. BrLD $-$$ The Salted Slate An agri-driven American restaurant with global influences. 186 Wayland Ave, Providence, 270-3737. BrLD $$-$$$ Tortilla Flats Fresh Mexican, Cajun, and Southwestern fare, cocktails, and over 70 tequilas. 355 Hope St, Providence, 751-6777. LD $-$$ Twin Oaks Family restaurant serving an extensive selection of Italian and American staples. 100 Sabra St, Cranston, 781-9693. LD $-$$$ XO Cafe Acclaimed farm-to-table cuisine with a fantastic Sunday #PajamaBrunch. 125 N Main St, Providence, 273-9090. BrD $$
Central Celebrates the Season
Services every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Prayerful Worship ∙ Thoughtful Sermons ∙ Inspiring Music Sunday, December 2 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Christmas at Central Our bazaar of gift items includes beautiful handicrafts by local and world artisans; food & beverages are also available for purchase Sunday, December 9 11:30 a.m. Trim-a-Tree decorating, crafts and light sandwiches; then caroling throughout Providence Sunday, December 16 10:30 a.m. Children’s Pageant during Worship 4:00 p.m. Carol Service and Silver Tea A not-to-be missed East Side tradition! Sunday, December 23 10:30 a.m. “God Is With Us” Christmas Eve 5 p.m. Family Service 11 p.m. Candlelight Service Christmas Day 10:30 a.m. Service of worship for the Birth of Christ
ALL ARE WELCOME Central Congregational Church United Church of Christ 296 Angell Street, Providence, R.I. 401-331-1960 ∙ www.centralchurch.us East Side Monthly • December 2018 53
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RESTAURANT GUIDE
SOUTHERN RI Pizza & Bakery Pizza East Side Monthly – SeptemberColvitto’s 28, 2018 Calzones and baked goods SO Rhode Island – October 10, 2018 Breachway Grill Classic New made fresh daily. 91 Point Judith England fare, plus NY-style Rd, Narragansett, 783-8086. pizza. 1Ad Charlestown BeachxRd, size: 2.375" 2.25"BrLD $ Charlestown, 213-6615. LD $$ September 24, 2018 Dante’s Kitchen American food Celestial Cafe Fresh, locally with Southern flair. 315 Main November Issue 2018 St, East Greenwich, 398-7798. sourced ingredients from farms and fisheries for breakfast, lunch, BL$-$$ and dinner. 567 South County Trail, Exeter, 295-5559BLD $$ Eleven Forty Nine City sophistication in the suburbs. Champlin’s Seafood Dockside 1149 Division St, Warwick, 884fresh seafood serving easy 1149. LD $$$ breezy cocktails. 256 Great Island Rd, Narragansett, 783Frankie’s Italian Bistro Fine 3152. LD $-$$ dining with imported wines from around the world. 1051 Ten Rod Coast Guard House A new Rd, North Kingstown, 295-2500. American menu with a seafood D $-$$$ emphasis and extensive wine list, open seven days a week. 40 Fresco Italian American Ocean Rd, Narragansett, 789comfort food with international 0700. BrLD $$$ inspirations. 301 Main St, East 54
East Side Monthly • December 2018
Greenwich, 398-0027; 140 Comstock Pkwy, Cranston, 228 3901. D$-$$
Naples. 60 S County Commons Way, South Kingstown, 7832900. LD $-$$
George’s of Galilee Fresh caught seafood in an upscale pub atmosphere. 250 Sand Hill Cove Rd, Narragansett, 7832306. LD $-$$
Phil’s Main Street Grille Classic comfort food with a great rooftop patio. 323 Main St, Wakefield, 783-4073. BBrLD $
Jigger’s Diner Classic ‘50s diner serving breakfast all day. 145 Main St, East Greenwich, 8846060. BL $-$$ Mariner Grille Seafood, steaks, and pasta in a fun setting, with live entertainment. 40 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, 2843282.LD $$ Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napoletana Authentic Neapolitan woodfired pizza with exclusive ingredients imported from
Red Stripe Casual FrenchAmerican bistro. 465 Angell St, Providence, 437-6950; 455 Main St, East Greenwich, 398-2900. BrLD $$ Siena Impeccable Italian cuisine. Locations in Providence, East Greenwich, and Smithfield, 5213311. D $$-$$$ Sophie’s Brewhouse Espresso drinks and sandwiches with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. 699 S County Trail, Exeter, 295-4273. BL $$
RESTAURANT GUIDE T’s Restaurant Plentiful breakfast and lunch. Locations in Cranston, East Greenwich, and Narragansett, TsRestaurantRI. com. BL $ Tavern by the Sea Waterfront European/American bistro. 16 W Main St, Wickford, 294-5771. LD $$ The Cove A traditional bar and grill serving burgers, sandwiches, and classic New England seafood favorites. 3963 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, 364-9222. LD $$ Twin Willows Fresh seafood and water views in a family-friendly atmosphere. 865 Boston Neck Rd, Narragansett, 789-8153. LD $-$$ Tong-D
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EAST BAY / NEWPORT Aviary Creative, locally sourced menu featuring rotating craft beers and from-scratch cocktails. 2229 GAR Highway, Swansea, 508-379-6007. BrLD $$ Black Bass Grille Classic seafood, historic waterfront setting. 3 Water St, South Dartmouth, 508-999-6975. LD $$ Blount Market & Kitchen Traditional New England seafood summer favorites offered year-
round for dine-in and takeout. 406 Water St, Warren, 245-1800. LD $$ Bluewater Bar and Grill Casual restaurant with modern seafood dishes, patio seating, and live music. 32 Barton Ave, Barrington, 247-0017. LD $$-$$$ Chomp Upscale comfort food featuring award-winning burgers and sandwiches. 440 Child St, Warren, 289-2324. D $$ East Bay Oyster Bar Local seafood meets innovative preparation in a rustic setting. 308 County Rd, Barrington, 2470303. LD $$ Ichigo Ichie Traditional Japanese cuisine, creative sushi, and
hibachi. 5 Catamore Blvd, East Providence, 435-5511. LD $-$$$ KC’s Burger Bar Burgers, hot dogs, and sides enjoyed in a retro car-themed diner. 1379 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, MA. 508-557-1723. BLD $$ Redlefsen’s European-style dining with a waterfront view focusing on traditional German foods. 444 Thames St, Bristol, 254-1188. LD $$ Tav Vino Waterfront dining with an Italian and seafood focus. 267 Water St, Warren, 245-0231. D $$ The Old Grist Mill Tavern Fine dining located over the Runnins River. 390 Fall River Ave, Seekonk, 508-336-8460. LD $-$$$ East Side Monthly • December 2018 55
COLDWELL BANKER
195 Howell St. East Side | 2nd fl. $239,900 | 3rd fl. $209,000
97 Evergreen St, East Side, Providence | $289,900
242 Wayland Ave., East Side, Providence | $199,900
62 Rochambeau Ave, East Side, Providence | $449,900
39 Melissa St., Providence Annex | $210,000
COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM Providence | 401.351.2017 | CB Home Protection Plan 866.797.4788
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 231653NE_12/17
2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
*Brands & styles vary by location.
TRUMBULL | BRANFORD | OLD SAYBROOK MOHEGAN SUN | WAKEFIELD, RI | PROVIDENCE, RI 56
East Side Monthly • December 2018
DECEMBER music | performance | social happenings | galleries | sports
THE TOP OF OUR LIST
Photo courtesy of Festival Ballet
10 events you can’t miss this month
December 21-23: The Nutcracker
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7
December 1: A yearly favorite returns: the Holiday Celebration and Christmas Tree Lighting at the Alex and Ani Center. Admire the towering evergreen wrapped in multicolored lights, a festive backdrop to the popular skating rink transformed with an artist marketplace and live performances. 2 Kennedy Plaza, TheProvidenceRink.com
December 1: It’s the season of giving, and in that spirit, St. Sebastian’s Christmas Bazaar “Warm Heart, Warm Hearth” will feature gift baskets, raffles, food, penny social, and holiday items. All proceeds benefit the “Keep the Heat On” heating assistance program. 67 Cole Avenue, StSebastianRI.org
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December 4: The Mavericks “Hey! Merry Christmas!” Tour celebrates the eclectic band’s new Christmas record. The group’s Tex-Mex/country/Latin/rockabilly mash-up sound will give a singular twist to traditional tunes. 79 Washington Street, Providence, TheStrandRI.com
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December 8: NBC The Voice’s – and Rhode Island’s own – Billy Gilman presents his Home for the Holidays Concert, a combination of his favorite Christmas tunes, some of his own songs, and the backdrop of a lively band. 1 LaSalle Square, DunkinDonutsCenter.com
December 8: The Boston Pops Orchestra, Conductor Keith Lockhart, and the Metropolitan Chorale join together on stage to spread Christmas cheer by singing – and playing – loud for all to hear. The 2018 Holiday Pops Tour features fan favorites like Sleigh Ride, end-of-concert sing-along, and a special guest appearance by Santa Claus himself. 220 Weybosset Street, PPACRI.org
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December 15: Appreciate traditions of Christmases past as you wander through the festively decorated Victorian home during Christmas at Lippitt House. Make your own tree decorations and candy-filled crackers, plus try a holiday-themed museum tour. 199 Hope Street, PreserveRI.org
Decemberer 6: Celebrate the season with a boozy walk through historic Lippitt House during their Christmas Scotch Party. Sip, savor, and pair whiskies with a selection of hors d’oeuvres for an evening of style, sophistication, and lots and lots of scotch. 199 Hope Street, PreserveRI.org
December 21-23: Your favorite characters, sets, and music return to PPAC for Festival Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. Follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on their magical journey told through elegant, captivating song and dance. 220 Weybosset Street, PPACRI.org
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December 7: The distinctive, beloved melodies of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas graces Providence. It’s been 30 years since Chip Davis brought these new-age, modernized renditions of traditional Christmas songs to America. Now, it’s considered a must-listen holiday classic. 220 Weybosset Street, PPACRI.org
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December 31: The G Pub welcomes you to ring in the new year with a little festive flair. Party in the Pub! features giveaways and raffles, including tickets to Bruins and Celtics games and hotel packages, plus a live DJ, photo booth, table games, cash bar, and a la carte dinner by reservation. 61 Orange Street, NYEProvidence.com
East Side Monthly • December 2018 57
On the Town Calendar
Where we bring the mountains closer to you
Performance Guarantee On All Ski’s, Snowboards and Boots Recognized For Our Expertise In Boot Fitting
105 CHESTNUT STREET, WARWICK
Shop: (401) 781-4444 • www.RISkiShop.com
Refined & Unique December 23: A Magical Cirque Christmas brings a little bit of everything stunning to the stage. Be enchanted by angelic renditions of Christmas carols, dazzled by the
MUSIC
arena & club | classical
Brennan & Associates Design + Build
401.316.4626
brennanassoc@outlook.com 58
East Side Monthly • December 2018
ARENA & CLUB COLUMBUS THEATRE December 7: The Barr Brothers. December 8: Doug Paisley. December 9: Darlingside, Henry Jamison. December 12: Ryley Walker. December 15: An Evening With Hiss Golden Messenger. 270 Broadway, Providence. 621-9660, ColumbusTheatre. com
talent dressed in sparkling costume, and wowed by the breathtaking and gravity-defying circus acts. One Avenue of the Arts, Providence, TheVETSRI.org
FETE MUSIC HALL December 2: Rock, Shop ‘n’ Roll Holiday Market. December 6: The Ventures with Atlantic Thrills. December 8: The Nightmare Before Christmas. December 21: Free Christmas Show & Toy Drive with Devil’s Feedback, Marc Rizzo & The Corrupters, Bloodline Theory, 6 Foot Silence, Inverter, Fear the Masses, and A Mean Minute. December 28: Moon Hooch with Honeycomb; Doyle (of Misfits) with On Your Deathbed. 103 Dike Street, Providence. 383-1112, FeteMusic.com
WE'RE RENOVATING... and still OPEN!
THE MET December 5: Bayside Acoustic Tour with Golds. December 6: Project Object Celebrating the Music of Frank Zappa with Napoleon Murphy Brock and Denny Walley. December 7: Talking Heads Tribute Start Making Sense with SeepeopleS. December 8: A Wilhelm Scream. December 12: J Mascis with LuLuc. December 13: The Bouncing Souls with The World/ Inferno Friendship Society and Worriers. December 14: The Founders with Al Copley, Rich Lataille, Greg Piccolo, Doug James, Duke Robillard, Mark Teixeria, and Brad Hallen. December 21: Keats & Company: A Grateful Dead Tribute. December 30: The Motet with Sophistafunk. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 729-1005, TheMetRI.com THE STRAND December 4: The Mavericks “Hey! Merry Christmas!� Tour. December 8: P.O.D with Nonpoint and Islander. December 30: Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime Stand By Your Van Tour with Roots of Creation and The Elovaters. 79 Washington Street, Providence. TheStrandRI.com
SCALE MODEL OF THINGS TO COME
NOV 21 - DEC 16 PULITZER PRIZE FINALIST
GLORIA
BY BRANDEN JACOBS-JENKINS DIRECTED BY RACHEL WALSHE
Glass Head House • Roof Garden Windows/Natural Light Small Market Area Spruced-Up Bar
"Shocking, hilarious and spectacularly honest." - Chicago Tribune
Same Cozy Charm!
Chez Pascal & The Wurst Kitchen DELECTABLE DINING WITH A WURST SIDE
960 Hope Street, Providence 421-4422 • Chez-Pascal.com
GAMMTHEATRE ORG |
1245 Jefferson Blvd. Warwick, RI
PERFORMANCE comedy | theatre
COMEDY CONNECTION December 6-8: Sam Morril. 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. 438-8383, RIComedyConnection.com THEATRE THE PLAYERS AT BARKER PLAYHOUSE December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9: The Butterfingers Angel, Mary and Joseph, Herod the Nut and the Slaughter of 12 Hit Carols in a Pear Tree. 400 Benefit Street, Providence. 273-0590, PlayersRI.org PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER December 1-2: Anastasia. December 7: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. December 8: 2018 Holiday Pops.
East Side Monthly • December 2018 59
On the Town Calendar
December 13: Lindsey Stirling: The Wanderland Tour. December 21-23: Festival Ballet Providence Presents The Nutcracker. 220 Weybosset St, Providence. 421-2787, PPACRI.org TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY November 8-December 30: A Christmas Carol. 201 Washington Street, Providence. 351-4242, TrinityRep.com
LEARN
discussion | instruction | tour LADD OBSERVATORY Open to the public on Tuesday evenings from 8 to 10pm, weather permitting. 210 Doyle Avenue. 863-2641, Brown.edu MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND PLANETARIUM October 1-31: Public Planetarium Shows on Saturdays and Sundays. Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 785-9457, ProvidenceRI.gov/Museum
A free MyFund™ account makes giving to your favorite charities quick and easy. Enjoy consolidated giving and a single tax receipt. Visit www.myfund.org.
All of our fundraising costs, including this ad, are paid by a trust.
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY LIBRARY December 1: Language Literacy Workshop for Early Learning Professionals; A Leadership Journey. December 3: East Side Cinema Night; Friends of Rochambeau Library. December 4: Free ESOL classes – Beginner Level. December 4, 11, 18: Zumba4Toddlers; Tableau Workshop for Beginners: Hands-On Tableau Training; Public Speaking – A 3-part Workshop. December 5: Learn to Speak Spanish Beginner and Intermediate I. December 6, 13, 20, 27: Girls Who Code. December 6: RI Coalition Against Gun Violence Organizational Meeting. December 6: Having the Conversation – End of Life Care. December 7, 14, 21, 28: Unwind With Yarn; MakerSpace Open Hours. December 8: Hope High Dollars for Scholars Board Meeting. December 8, 22: Community Restorative Yoga. December 10: Rhode Island Pharmacists Association Council Meeting. December 12: CareerDevs Code Night with Arnell, Cliff & Friends.
November 11 though December 23 | 12 - 5pm daily 114th December 13: Queer Womxn’s Collective of Rhode Island – Organizing Meeting; Rochambeau Readers Book Discussion. December 14: La Leche League of Providence Meeting. December 17: PCL All Friends Council and PCL Board Meeting. December 18: Books and Movies of Faith. Rochambeau Library, 708 Hope Street, Providence. 272-3780, ProvComLib.org FOR FOODIES BOTTLES Thursdays 5–7pm: Spirit tasting. Fridays 4–7pm: Beer tasting. Saturdays 4–7pm: Wine tasting. 141 Pitman Street. 372-2030, BottlesFineWine.com FARM FRESH RHODE ISLAND Tuesdays 3-6pm: Woonsocket Year-Round Farmers Market. Saturdays 9am1pm: Pawtucket Winter Farmers Market. Fridays 11am–1pm: Harvest Kitchen Cooking Demo. Sundays 11am-3pm: Arcade Farmers Market. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. FarmFreshRI.org
Three galleries with over 600 works in all media by our artist members. All $300 and under, sales tax free, cash and carry. New work added daily.
Providence Art Club 11 & 13 Thomas Street, Providence, RI.
GALLERIES RISD MUSEUM Through January 20: Collective Recollection. Through January 20: Former Glory. Through December 30: The Phantom of Liberty. Through June 30, 2019: Repair and Design Futures. 20 North Main Street, Providence. 454-6530, RISDMuseum.org GALLERY Z Through December 23: Affordable Art. 259 Atwells Avenue, Providence. 454-8844, GalleryZProv.com
SPORTS PROVIDENCE BRUINS December 2: vs. Charlotte Chweckers. December 14: vs. Bridgeport Sound Tigers. December 15: vs. Hershey Bears. 1 La Salle Square, Providence. 273-5000, ProvidenceBruins.com
Give the comforts of HOHM for the Holidays. Gift certi�cates availa�le online or in of�ce. www.harmonyonhopemassage.com 335 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906 401.270.8877 East Side Monthly • December 2018 61
Business Spotlight
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors
TOP APPLIANCES AT LOW PRICES
STAINLESS REFRIGERATORS
Get Ahead Of The Storm And Winterize Your Vehicle Today.
WASHERS & DRYERS
We service and repair ALL foreign and domestic models
COOKTOPS WALL OVENS
• ASE Certified • RI inspection and repair station #27b
Is Your Car Ready for Winter Weather?
RANGES • HOODS BUILT-IN REFRIGERATION
DISHWASHERS
NEW SHOWROOM WITH OVER 400 SCRATCH & DENT APPLIANCES!
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
729 East Avenue • 401-723-1111 (Top of the East Side, next door to Rite Aid)
4 Season Care For Your Property
299 Walcott Street, Pawtucket 723.0500 • www.KitchenGuys.com
FIND A WORRYFREE PRE-OWNED EUROPEAN CAR? Sure! Choose color, features, mileage & your budget up front. Your dream car is hand-selected, vetted & warrantied. Plus expert service, free pick-up & delivery. Call for a Free Consultation
CityEstateGardener.com 401.935.2312
T.F. Morra Tree Care, Inc.
Ornamental and Shade Tree Specialists • fine hand pruning • tree preservation • hazard tree removal • tree evaluation & diagnosis • tree planting consultation 331-8527 • tfmorra.com 62
East Side Monthly • December 2018
The Dwares JCC is
YOUR Community Center. Membership is open to EVERYone regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexuality, ethnic background or family constellation. Fitness Center, Indoor Pool, Gymnasium, Early Childhood Center, After School Program, Family Programming, Cultural Arts and more!
Stop in or call to learn more!
In the heart of Providence’s East Side...
Dwares Rhode Island
401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 401.421.4111 | jewishallianceri.org
A
chieve peace of mind by ensuring your vehicle is prepared for upcoming winter driving conditions. Sue at Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors explains that, first and foremost, check your tires. “Don’t wait until the last minute to see if your tires are good enough for that first snow fall,” she explains. Secondly, make sure your anti-freeze levels are adequate and wiper blades are in good shape. Check your battery. Even if it looks good today, you should know that batteries in the four-tofive year age range show their weakness on that first super cold day. While it’s tempting to let your wiper blades function as snow removal devices, you shouldn’t do it as it puts pressure on the motors and will make them go prematurely. And before the white fluffy stuff comes, be careful when driving in the rain as potholes, when full of water, are disguised and driving fast through them can damage your suspension and wheels. Always use premium gas and give your car a chance to warm up on cold days to allow fluids to get to their proper places before driving. Sue concludes, “And whether we’re in summer or winter, the path to your car’s longevity is to keep up with the maintenance.” Call Swedish Motors today to get your vehicle ready for winter.
Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors 729 East Avenue, Pawtucket 723-1111; SwedishMotors-TomassoAuto.com
Business Spotlight
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Wintertime Home Solutions
IASIMONE PLUMBING HEATING & DRAIN CLEANING, INC.
INSTALLATIONS REPAIRS • REPLACEMENTS We are always providing a Free Estimate
WINNER OF THE SUPER SERVICE AWARD FROM ANGIE’S LIST FOUR YEARS IN A ROW! 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
27 Allen Avenue, North Providence (401) 300-9761 • iasimonephdc.com
BEAUTIFUL PRE-OWNED JEWELRY
L
ouis Iasimone is a proud member of a family of leading plumbing and heating professionals. With over 35 years of experience, Louis and the crew at Iasimone Plumbing, Heating & Drain Cleaning Inc provide customers the highest level of service. “It’s so rewarding to have clients call us year after year,” Louis says. Making sure every client understands their options is an important part of what keeps people coming back to Iasimone each year. The company, a yearslong recipient of Angie’s List’s Super Service Award, offers a variety of plumbing and heating services, as well as no-cost estimates. They specialize in installation and repairs of sinks and faucets, bathroom fixtures, water lines, dishwashers, water heaters and boilers, and also offer water and sewage services. With the colder months upon us, it’s a good time to schedule regular boiler maintenance, which is required to keep things running safely and efficiently. Iasimone is there to help clients keep their gas boilers in good running condition. Be sure to check that your thermostat is working properly to avoid wasting fuel and energy. Remember to keep an eye on your pilot light to make sure it’s burning a healthy blue and isn’t damaged. When in doubt, you can always give Louis and Iasimone Plumbing, Heating & Drain Cleaning a call to make sure that you’re in good shape for the winter.
Iasimone Plumbing Heating and Drain Cleaning 27 Allen Ave, North Providence 300-9761; IasimonePHDC.com
1271 North Main Street, Providence 437-8421 358 Broad Street, Providence 273-7050 WL-Freepik
MEMORY CARE ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE
ALSO 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.
OUR UPLIFTING ENVIRONMENT AND SPECIAL APPROACH TO ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE HAVE CREATED A QUALITY OF LIFE YOU SIMPLY CAN’T GET ANYPLACE ELSE.
(401) 944-2450
FOR A PERSONAL TOUR Convenient to US Hwy 6 and I-295 in Johnston, RI
49 OLD POCASSET ROAD BriarcliffeGardens.com
Northeast Chiropractic DR. THOMAS MORISON Chiropractic Physician
401-861-1300 • 187 Waterman Street www.wickedgoodposture.com East Side Monthly • December 2018 63
SERVICE EAST SIDE HANDYMAN
Repairs, upgrades & renovations. Small jobs welcome. Many East Side references. Insured. Call 524-6421. Reg. #3052
HANDYMAN
Specializing in exceptional results for repairs & small jobs. On time, professional & extremely clean. Reg. #40738. clearproppvd@gmail.com
HOUSE CLEANING
Experienced. Local references. Free estimates. Call Lilly, 401-419-2933.
HOME & BUSINESS SERVICES
KIND CARE ~ SENIORS
Appointments, errands, shopping, cleaning & maint. Refs. Safety bars installed. Reg #3052. 559-0848.
BEYOND THE PALE
Quality interior painting, color consulting, lead certified, green products. Lic. #15914. Call Mike 401-573-4498.
SUPERB HOUSEPAINTING High end workmanship. Small jobs a specialty. Call Ron 751-3242. Reg. #18128.
MALIN PAINTING
Most ceiling & wall repairs, wallpaper removal, oil-based & latex finishes, staining, varnishing. Fully insured, Many local references. Safe, secure, fast service. 226-8332. Reg. #19226.
DOROTHY’S CLEANING
We clean your home as our own! References & free estimates. 401-524-7453 or 401-228-6273.
PIONEER BASEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES
The healthy choice for wet basements, crawl spaces, moisture & air quality control. Foundation repair. Certified. Insured. Reg. #3934. Cell 401215-7985 or 1-800-649-6140.
PROPERTY MANAGER
Available. On call 24/7. Rent collection. Rentals, evictions, maintenance. 421-0092.
WANTED
CHRIS’ Lee’s Basic LAMP REPAIR Cleaning & More! We Make Housecalls!!! Let me make your life easier!
Repairing all types of Lamps Vintage Lighting Specialist Chandelier Repairs & Cleaning
Over 20 yrs. experience. References.
Serving the East Side for 25 Years
Reasonable Rates!
Fully Insured
401-831-8693
Benefit St. @ north end, Burrs Ln., $115/mo. Considerable discount for 1 yr. commitment. Call Roger, 339-4068. rogernc@mac.com
AUDIO/VIDEO HELP
If you need help with your TV, home theater or stereo, call Jon Bell, 383-4102. Simply Sight & Sound. Reasonable rates. 30 years experience.
Round Again Records needs your used CDs and records. Cash paid. 351-6292.
I BUY BOOKS
Old, used and almost new. Also photography, art, etc. jcminich1@gmail.com 286-9329.
Prompt, Reliable Quality Work
Levine Painting Co., Inc. Interior, Exterior, Residential/Commercial Wallpaper Hanging, Power Washing, Staining 25 Years Experience
Give me a call,
(401) 885-1580 • (401) 323-6100 cell
www.ChrisLampRepair.com
785-1230
R.I. Lic 7140 Liab/ Work Comp Insured
R.W. Desrosiers Inc.
David Onken Painting
Complete Plumbing & Heating Service
Interior/Exterior
723-0560
Carpentry Renovations
Lead Certified
Providence
Gutter Cleaning Chimney Pointing Roof Leak Repairs
ri Contr 937 MP #1578 MPF 1355
248-5248
Call Al Medina (401) 438-8771 or (401) 323-8252
Seasoned Firewood $175 1/2 cord (Free Delivery)
If you need a house cleaner who is organized, with good prices and excellent references, call
Power Raking Hammering Augering New Lawns Installed (seed or sod) Free Estimates
401-475-3283 954-709-6713
Vinny’s Landscaping & BOBCAT SERVICE
Call 497-1461
Spruce-Up for the Holidays!
Interior or Exterior Touch-Ups! Painting ◆ Light Carpentry Work Staining of all wood surfaces ~ Decks
Sheds & more! ◆ Driveways ◆ Pools Aprons ◆ Cement Patios Window Re-glazing ◆ Gutter Cleaning Epoxy Floors ◆ Single & Multi-Family Free Estimates ◆ East Side References ◆
Fences
◆
Power Washing
Reg. #3469 ◆ Fully Insured ◆ 30 yrs. in business
Call T & T Painting anytime 944-0336
East Side Monthly • December 2018
Experts in Water Problems
From Roofs, Gutters & Basements
Reg. #1903 Insured 40 Years Experience
House Cleaning
◆
We Specialize in painting & carpentry
Over 20 years of experience on historical homes Certified Lead Renovated LRM #0514 RI Reg #7320 • Fully insured GEt it donE! Call today!
LiCenSed • Bonded • inSured
PARKING
USED MUSIC WANTED!
64
DIRECTORY
The Finest in New England Craftmanship
Boreal Remodeling General Home Repair, including Kitchens,Baths, Decks & Additions Reg. # 22013
Michael Packard • (401) 441-7303
Retirement Medicare 101 Finding the Right Medicare Option for You
Jeffrey G. Brier CLU, ChFC, CASL
Brier & Brier Insurance & Employee Benefits 81 S. Angell Street • Providence • 02906 751.2990 • jbrier@brier-brier.com
LIVEREAL ESTATE
We’ve been setting records in 2018…one house and one neighborhood at a time. At Taylor & Associates, we’re not afraid to push the limits of the market on behalf of our clients. With the right strategy, the right representation and the right company, your goals are our business. Who are you going to choose in 2019?
9 KENILWORTH | OAK HILL SOLD $727,500 | HIGHEST SINGLE FAMILY SALE
2 ROSEBANK | ELMHURST SOLD $495,000 | HIGHEST SINGLE FAMILY SALE
63-65 GREENWOOD | RUMFORD SOLD $485,000 | HIGHEST 3 FAMILY SALE
265 BENEFIT | EAST SIDE SOLD $1,225,000 | HIGHEST 4 UNIT SALE
Taylor & Associates | PVDHomes.com | 401.214.1524 Waterplace, 100 Exchange Street | Providence, RI Each office independently owned and operated. This information is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the State-Wide Multiple LIsting Service. The MLS does not guarantee and is not in any way responsible for its accuracy. These properties may have been sold by other real estate companies. Data maintained by the MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Data is based on information from State-Wide Multiple Listing Service, Inc. for SFM, MFM, CND, VLD and CMM listing for the period of 1/1/18 through 9/1/18.
EAST SIDER By Karen Greco
Trail Tale Every year,
upwards of 6,000 hikers take on the Pacific Crest Trail, a trail that winds 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. Only 20 percent of hikers finish the challenge. East Side resident Katrina Horner is one them. Horner grew up in La Junta, Colorado, a small town east of Pueblo. She met fellow outdoor enthusiast Bryce Hostetler in college. After a summer road trip hiking the Juan de Fuca Trail in British Columbia, they dreamed about taking on the PCT. “Bryce called me up and said, ‘I’m doing this. Want to come?’ When would I have another opportunity? I couldn’t say no,” Horner says. The 24-year-old nurse gave up her job at Miriam Hospital, said goodbye to her fiancé, and set out on the adventure of
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East Side Monthly • December 2018
a lifetime. Fans of Cheryl Strayed’s best-selling book Wild will recognize the rigors of a trek of this magnitude. Hikers log thirty miles per day in ever changing terrain. “You’re hiking through the desert for the first 700 miles. Then you are up in the Sierra Nevadas, where there is still snow along the trail,” she says. “Once we hit Northern California, we were in the middle of fire season. For three weeks we hiked through thick smoke.” At certain points, Horner questioned continuing. “It rained for five days straight in the Cascades. Everything was soaked through and cold. But the trail is so remote that by the time you get to a location where you can end the hike, you’ve overcome the challenge. You just want to keep going.”
“I learned to live in the moment,” she explains. “Our everyday lives get stressful, too. I learned to stop, take a breath, and look at the beauty around me.” The adage “the trail provides” is apt, whether through the serenity of nature or the culture of the trail itself. “The people were extraordinary. Trail angels leave bits of comfort at trail stops as a way to pay-it-forward or just out of kindness. That community support was magical.” After five months spent dodging rattlesnakes, communing with bears, traipsing over snow covered ridges, and walking through fields of honeysuckle, she’s happy to be home. “I never appreciated a hot meal and shower more,” she says. “As soon as I got back, I ate oysters and calamari.”
Photo courtesy of Bryce Hostetler
An East Side resident hikes the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest route
NEWPORT
NARRAGANSETT
PROVIDENCE
JAMESTOWN
WATCH HILL
BLOCK ISLAND
139 RUMSTICK ROAD BARRINGTON | $1,375,000
114 RUMSTICK ROAD BARRINGTON | $895,000
50 OLD CUMBERLAND ROAD WRENTHAM, MA | $1,149,900
F R O M T H E C OA S T TO T H E C A P I TA L . . . PROVIDENCE
|
369 SOUTH MAIN ST
|
401.274.1644
|
LilaDelman.com
133 Hartshorn Road East Side of Providence $1,650,000 401.274.6740
8 Rhode Island Avenue East Side of Providence $698,000 401.274.6740
See the Video Tour at 133Hartshorn.com
Kettle Point Townhomes East Providence Priced From the Mid $500,000s 401.553.6389
#1 in RI Homes Sold For 2015, 2016, and 2017 (PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS BOOK OF LISTS)
Barrington Cumberland East Greenwich Narragansett Providence West Side PVD Relocation
401.245.9600 401.333.9333 401.885.8400 401.783.2474 401.274.6740 401.457.3400 800.886.1775
See the Video Tour at KettlePointHomes.com
21 Boylston Avenue East Side of Providence $795,000 401.274.6740
22 Cushing Street East Side of Providence $584,000 401.274.6740
116 Everett Avenue East Side of Providence $439,000 401.274.6740
92 Ivy Street East Side of Providence $469,999 401.274.6740
See the Video Tour at 116Everett.com
See the Video Tour at 92IvyStreet.com