Providence Monthly April 2013

101 Orange Street Providence, RI 401.808.6777 www.studio101ri.com

Studio 101 launched by Jason Dolan

is the newest salon to hit Providence. Jason didn’t become one of New York City’s most sought after colorists by accident.

The RI-native and 15-year veteran of the world-class color team at Bergdorf Goodman’s John Barrett Salon has built an impeccable reputation over the course of his career, most recently gaining critical acclaim for his work in cutting-edge color techniques such as ombre and ballyage.

Since entering the New York City scene Jason has worked diligently to build his enviable client roster, which includes a who’s who of actors and actresses, models, fashion editors and media personalities. His talents have brought him from the runways of New York City’s Fashion Week and America’s Next Top Model to the pages of Allure Magazine, and everywhere in between.

Several years ago, after closely evaluating the current style landscape in his hometown, Jason made the decision to begin

making bi-monthly appearances at a downtown Providence salon. The idea was to bring a bit of New York City flavor to the folks back home. It didn’t take long for the news to spread and Jason began booking weeks and months in advance and made the choice to up his visits to every four weeks. As much as he loved making these appearances, the desire to create something of his own in the town where he was born and raised intensified.

Fast-forward two years and Studio 101 is born – the preeminent hair salon experience located in the heart of downtown Providence. It only takes one step inside the space to evoke a visceral feeling of chic New York City décor and modern luxury.

Offering an array of style and color services, Studio 101 brings an entirely new element to the flourishing downtown scene.

Jason and his expert team of stylists and colorists (including several of his New York City peers) look forward to serving you and becoming your new trusted source for all things beauty in Rhode Island.

Dining Cathedral Bar Private Events Al Fresco Terrace

3000 Chapel View Boulevard

Cranston RI,02920

401.944.4900 www.ChapelGrilleRI.com

FuLL sushi menu | Aged signAture Prime steAks | creAtive cocktAiLs | soPhisticAted & LiveLy AtmosPhere

Where the mArtinis Are

dry

e r A s k A e t s e h And t

juicy

401.453.BeeF | tenPrimesteAkAndsushi.com | 55 Pine street Providence, ri

Contents

Photography: (R) James Jones

APriL 2013

A Snow Leopard at the Zoo

21

This Month 21 Warm and Fuzzy Walking with the animals (and the zookeepers) at Roger Williams Park Zoo

25 Jewelry in the Ocean State

25

inside the thriving PVD jewelry industry

33 City Style Spiffy Gents in the city 35 The Look 36 Get Fit 39 Shop Talk 40 Beauty

43 Feast A taste of the city in the suburbs 45 In the Kitchen 46 On the Menu 48 Review 51 Behind the Bar 52 In the Drink 55 Dining Guide

The current state of the century old industry

59 Get Out

Every Month 6 Editor’s Note 8 PM List 9 This month on ProvidenceOnline.com

13 Providence Pulse Rescuing computers and putting them to good use

Providence’s own running of the lady bulls 60 Calendar 63 Theatre 64 Music 67 Art

68 The Last Detail Fabulous finds at the Wheeler Clothing Sale

On the Cover:

Modeled by Amy Diaz and photographed by James Jones. Turn the page for more information on this locally made jewelry.

14 City 15 Malcontent 19 Scene in PVD April 2013 | Providence Monthly

5

Editor’s Note

PROVIDENCE MONTHLY

Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell Publishing Director Jeanette St. Pierre

Put a Ring On It

Executive Editor Julie Tremaine

There are a lot of conversations about Providence that include the phrase “the city used to be known for its jewelry.” Granted, they’re usually with tourists, but whatever. The point is that when you think about jewelry manufacturing in Providence, you probably think about it as a thing of the past, not a viable, growing industry that offers opportunity and creative license to its workers – which is why we went digging around on the current state of jewelry in PVD. We were pleasantly surprised to find that, while it might not be what it once was, the industry is

doing surprisingly well. From edgy handmade jewelry on the West Side to the Downtown bangle Mecca that is Alex and Ani, read on to find out for yourself.

Then go shopping. We dare you not to be tempted.

Special Projects Manager John Taraborelli Art Director Karli Hendrickson Associate Editor Grace Lentini Assistant Art Director Meghan H. Follett Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas Graphic Designer Veatsna Sok Digital Manager Samantha Pezza Account Managers Louann DiMuccioElizabeth Riel Darwich Dan Schwartz Ann Gallagher Chelsea Sherman Nicole Greenspun Sharon Sylvester Kristine Mangan Kimberly Tingle Jessica Webb

On the Cover

Illustrators Caleigh McGrath

Jessica Pollak

Photographers

1

1. Jessica Ricci Jewelry jessicariccijewelry.com

2

2. Accent Fashion

5

3

Accessories

4

3. Accent Fashion Accessories 4. Alex and Ani

Amy Amerantes Mike Braca Ben Britton Stacey Doyle Corey Grayhorse James Jones

Grace Lentini Tiffany Medrano Katie Poor Tim Siekiera Melissa Stimpson

Contributing Writers Linda Beaulieu Stephanie Obodda Jen Brister Jane Parisi Michael Clark Caitlin Quinn Emily Dietsch Cristy Raposo Ben Goulet Eric Smith Jane C. Govednik Erin Swanson Molly Lederer Vikki Warner Interns Brianna Blank Adrianna Schepis Tess Lowe Nile Schley Caley MacDonald Lauren Tait Courtney Melo Members of:

alexandani.com

6

Audited by:

5. House of Cach houseofcach.com

7

6. Accent Fashion Accessories

8

7. Swarovski swarovski.com 8. Nicole Romano nicoleromano.com

6

Providence Monthly | April 2013

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. PAPER CONTAINS 20-25% POST-CONSUMER CONTENT Providence Monthly 1070 Main Street, Suite 302 Pawtucket RI 02860 • Fax: 401-305-3392 www.providenceonline.com providencemonthly@providenceonline.com For advertising rates call: 401-305-3391 We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.

Copyright ©2012 by Providence Monthly, All rights reserved. Printed by Gannett Offset. Distributed by Special Delivery.

lululemon athletica garden city open april 2013

jessie dwiggins yoga instructor Raffa Yoga

special advertising section

PM List

events / ProMotions / good deeds

Savor the Flavor

Live in Wayland Square!

Studios, 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments, and Private Penthouse

of Terroir to what’s Brewing in Rhode Island. You can either purchase tickets for individual events or an all-inclusive pass. But whatever you decide to attend will no doubt be a tantalizing experience for your tastebuds. eatdrinkri. com/festival.

24 Hour Fitness Center 24 Hour Concierge 24 Hour Emergency Service Restaurant on site Tailor Shop on Site Salon on site

All Utilities & Parking Included

Cafes & Boutiques right outside your door

Come savor the best of the food scene in Rhode Island at the Eat Drink RI Festival from April 19-21. There are different events on different days such as a Truck Stop to benefit the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, Cocktail Couture and panels ranging from a Taste

500 Angell Street, Providence • 751-7700 www.waylandmanor.com • info@waylandmanor.com

ing If you’re not e’Sa,t CASERTA you’re not eating pizza!

1. OFF

$ 00

A DELICIOUS 12-PIECE PIZZA

The ORIGINAL

CASERTA PIZZERIA

A Rhode Island Tradition for over 50 years

There’s Only One Caserta 121 Spruce St., Providence (On the Hill) Parking Available

Take out 272-3618 or 621-3618 or 621-9190

Look for the food truck festival at the eat drink ri Festival

Providence’s Own Running of the Bulls The Providence Roller Derby girls will be painting the town, or its townspeople, red. Literally. The derby girls will don horns, skates and red dipped paint brushes in their Get Gored For Good Fundraiser

on April 28 that benefits the Amos House. All you have to do is run through downtown while they chase after you in the Spain-inspired running of the bulls event. getgoredforgood.com.

Fling Yourself Into Spring Support a good cause as The United Way’s Young Leaders Circle (YLC) presents its Spring Fling on May 4. The YLC represents young adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s who want to make a difference in their communities by giving,

8

Providence Monthly | April 2013

advocating and volunteering their time.

The Spring Fling fundraiser features dualing DJ’s at Fete and all proceeds will benefit the United Way of Rhode Island.

Dance your tail off and know it’s for a worthy cause. uwri.org.

Providence Monthly

THURSDAY, APRIL 4 • 7:30 PM AT LUPO’S

on the web

PENTATONIX

At Providenceonline.com

SUN., APRIL 7 • 7:30 PM AT LUPO’S

Carolina Chocolate Drops

More bling

plus Original Jelly Roll Soul

Love the jewelry featured in our cover story on page 24?

Check out our exclusive web gallery to get a glimpse at the pieces that didn’t make it into this issue.

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

FRIDAY, APRIL 19 AT

GRAHAM PARKER

& THE ORIGINAL RUMOUR WED., MAY 1 AT LUPO’S

THURS, MAY 9 AT LUPO’S

on twitter who we’re Following We’re trending! Last month we cohosted a Twitter Party with Rhody Mamas @AudreyMcCellan and @JenSenecal inspired by March’s

cover story (“The Urban Parent’s Guide to Raising Cool Kids”). Topics covered all things cool to do in Providence with your young ones. Attendees received some great tips and five lucky people won awesome prizes.

Just how cool was this party you ask? So happening that our hashtag #UrbanParentsCoolKids occupied the number one trending spot on Twitter for the hour. << If you don’t believe us see for yourself.

Look for more of Twitter parties in the near future by following @PVDMonthly.

FOR TICKET INFORMATION AND COMPLETE LISTINGS

LUPOS.COM

THEMETRI.COM

on Facebook what we’re Liking Eat Drink RI: We’re excited for this three-day celebration of local food and drink – and even more excited to be the presenting sponsor for the Grand Tasting.

Young Leaders Circle: This United Way RI group keeps us young professionals

inspired – and we’re looking forward to sponsoring their Spring Fling benefit.

Get Gored for Good: Providence Roller Derby does its own interpretation of The Running of the Bulls – complete with red face paint and horns. All to benefit the Amos House.

SUNDAY, APRIL 14 • 8 PM • THE VETS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT WWW.THEVETSRI.COM, WWW.PPACRI.ORG,

BY CALLING 401-421-ARTS & THE PPAC BOX OFFICE April 2013 | Providence Monthly

9

hope street!

BlAZE

BlUE COTTAGE

CHEZ PASCAl

COIFFURIUM

776 Hope St., 277-2529

748 Hope St.,

960 Hope St., 421-4422

800 Hope St., 331-1115

www.blazerestaurants.com

383-7307

www.chez-pascal.com

www.coiffurium.com

This

neighbor-

Serving the best breakfast in

Also home to the Wurst Kitchen/

Coiffurium was selected in 2012 by

hood favorite serves delicious cre-

Rhode Island. Open 7 days a week

Window, a cozy open kitchen lo-

Elle Magazine as one of the top 100

ative worldly fare and refreshing

7am-2pm. Also offering lunch!

cated in Chez Pascal. House made

salons in the country. Stop in and

cocktails. Lunch Tuesday thru Satur-

Great food at great prices!

sausages, sandwiches and more.

see why!

CREATOYvITY

EAST SIDE PRESCRIPTION

FESTIvAl BAllET

FROG AND TOAD

736 Hope St., 351-5718

632 Hope St., 751-1430

825 Hope St., 353-1129

795 Hope St., 831-3434

www.creatoyvity.com

www.eastsiderx.com

www.festivalballet.com

www.hopestreetprov.com

Creatoyvity specializes in quality, cre-

Your neighborhood pharmacy car-

FBP presents another Up Close

A special little neighborhood shop

ative, open ended playthings from

ries a full selection of fine wine,

on Hope series featuring a diverse

with an ever-changing selection

around the world. Free gift wrap-

craft beer and spirits. Prescriptions

lineup of dance in their intimate

that ranges from odd to incredible

ping and great everyday pricing.

filled for all health plans.

black box theatre on Hope Street.

and features tons of locally-made

March 29-April 13

goodness.

longtime

casual

day. Dinner Tuesday thru Sunday.

GOURMET HOUSE

HOPE RETURNS

HOPE STREET PIZZA

INDIA RESTAURANT

787 Hope St., 831-3400

746 Hope St., 453-2222

772 Hope St., 273-5955

1060 Hope St., 421-2600

www.gourmethouseri.com

www.hopereturnsri.com

www.hopestreetpizza.com

www.indiarestaurant.com

The neighborhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popu-

hope returns: kids thrift and gifts.

Great pizza, grinders, salads and

Serving eclectic Indian cuisine on

lar authentic Cambodian and Pan

Featuring many fine locally hand-

comfort food like fish and chips,

the East Side since 1995, India has

Asian cuisine. 20% off for college

crafted items, great for gift giving!

lasagna, gyros and souvlaki in a

an elegantly designed restaurant

students Sun-Wed with ID (exp.

Also specializing in upscale resale

family friendly setting. Adjoining

and a lovely outdoor patio for

5/31/13).

childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing and gear.

bar with flat screens.

warm weather dining.

eat. shop. play.

On Providence’s East Side

LuLi Boutique 7 8 2 H o p e S t r e e t, p r ov i d e n c e

KITCHEN BAR

KREATElIER

lUlI BOUTIQUE

PIPPA’S PAPERS

771 Hope St., 331-4100

804 Hope St., 432-7995

782 Hope St., 369-4332

780 Hope St., 331-0990

www.kitchenbarri.com

www.kreatelier.com

www.luliboutique.com

www.pippaspapers.com

Hope Street’s hottest restaurant,

Kreatelier offers unique fabric cre-

A fun fab funky boutique! Featur-

New stationery from Paris. Art pa-

offering

comfort

ations for life and home as well as

ing lines Moontide Dyers, Bryn

pers from Italy. Paper arts work-

cuisine in an elegant setting. Ter-

home décor and upholstery servic-

Walker, Luna Lutz, XCVI, Magdela-

shops, like decoupage, calligraphy

rific bar area, perfect for enjoying

es and creative sewing workshops.

na , Habitat, local artists and more!

and bookbinding. Custom invita-

contemporary

tions starting under $2 each.

their delicious calamari appetizer.

PIZZICO

RAN ZAN

SEvEN STARS BAKERY

SPITZ-WEISS

762 Hope St., 421-4114

1084 Hope St., 276-7574

820 Hope St., 521-2200

785 Hope St., 272-6161

www.pizzicoristorante.com

www.ranzan.net

www.sevenstarsbakery.com

www.spitzweiss.com

An award-winning Italian restau-

Ran Zan takes pride in bringing

Serving

coffee

Your friendly neighborhood real

rant serving some of the best Italian

you the colors, flavors and ambi-

along with breads and morning

estate agency. Family owned and

food with a wide variety of wine in

ance that are the hallmarks of truly

pastries, all made from scratch

operated for over 50 years. Assist-

a rustic, yet eclectic atmosphere.

enjoyable Japanese dining.

and baked fresh daily.

ing buyers, sellers and renters.

STOCK CUlINARY GOODS

STUDIO HOP

THREE SISTERS

ZACKS CAMERA REPAIR

756 Hope St., 521-0101

810 Hope St.,

1074 Hope St., 273-7230

791 Hope St., 273-7247

www.stockpvd.com Stock Culinary Goods welcomes food lovers who seek thoughtfully sourced, well-designed cooking tools, resources and gifts. New products arriving daily as well as demos and classes.

621-2262 Studio Hop blends contemporary fine art, jewelry and fine crafts with period furniture and jewelry.

They also feature unique wedding and engagement rings and handmade clothing.

www.threesistersri.com

www.zackscamerarepair.com

Ice cream... breakfast… coffee…

Old images moving or still or old

baked goods… lunch… all made in

sound recordings you can’t play

house with love. Get happy and

anymore? Zacks can rescue and

healthy with your Three Sisters!

convert them!

locally

roasted

One Goal.... Two Locations!

CORE Fitness Studio

CORE Pilates Mind/Body Studio

Combine Body-Barre & Cycling classes for the perfect interval workout!

Learn the foundational moves before joining our Small Group Classes!

Core’s Cycling Studio is state-of -the-art, with the most recent keiser indoor bikes.

Call the studio for more information, advance registration is required.

They include:

Try one of our new small Group Classes:

• Computerized Digital system

to monitor cadence, wattage, calories, time and mileage to enhance your personal ride!

• Sound System, LCD Projector and Screen to view virtual rides or just to watch a movie!

• CORE Body-Barre/Reformer • Reformer Essential • INT, Jumpboard All fitness levels welcome • Parking available

CORE Pilates Mind/Body Studio

469 Angell Street Providence, Wayland Square • 273-CORE

208 Govenor Street Providence • 273-CORE

Owner, Den ise

C

CORE Fitness Studio

an Oi k a h

-Olney

NO Membership Fee • Group Fitness Classes $12 COre’s Signature Services include: sports specific Training • Personal Training • C.O.r.e Body-Barre willPower infusion • state of the art keiser indoor Cycle Program • MVe Vinyasa and anusara yoga • strength Training • navy seal • Pilates Mat run Group • willPower & Grace • TrX-suspension Training • indo-row Barefoot Training • Functional Movement screening Core’s signature Core sweat Class • Foam rolling Classes

www.corefitprov.com

Providence Pulse CITY / MALCONTENT / SCENE IN PVD

One Man’s Trash is Another’s Computer It’s a distinctly 21st century problem: what do you do with that old, outdated computer once it’s been replaced? In Providence, bring it to Free Geek.

By “addressing the digital divide by providing recycled computers, training and technical assistance to [the] community and responsibly recycling items that can no longer be used,” Free Geek has already reused over three tons of electronic waste and refurbished over 1,000 donated computers. Located at 35 Swiss Street, in the cafeteria of the Holy Ghost School, the volunteer-based organization has logged over 21,600 hours worth of work, with 230 different volunteers. Taking the donated computer parts, the volunteers refurbish them and then distribute the computers to those in need. They also provide

education, internet access and job skills training through classes like Intro to Word Processing, Digital Literacy Training and How to Create Your Own Blog/ Website in Less than 30 Minutes.

Free Geek focuses on turning throwaway computers into tools for schools and families, keeping toxins like mercury and lead out of landfills and the environment and to connect nonprofit charities to the training and tools they need to make a difference.

They are always looking for donations. Drop off computers, gadgets or any pieces of technology to them 11–2pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Donations are tax deductible and help support many Free Geek programs. 484-8884, freegeekpvd. org –Jared DiMascio

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

13

City

Malcontent

What’s New in PVD

By John Taraborelli

By Julie Tremaine

The Hardest Working Men in “No” Business Saluting the heroic work ethic of our General Assembly Our General Assembly can be accused of many things – corruption, inefficiency, nepotism, cronyism, shortsightedness, pigheadedness, blind partisanship… shall I go on? But one thing it cannot be accused of is laziness. Whether they’re saving us taxpayers the cost of paying a full-time legislature by supplementing their income with a few bucks from CVS, staying late to pass bothersome legislation at an hour when it’s unlikely to disturb the rest of us trying to sleep, or working hard to spare us the confusing and unwieldy choice between two distinct political parties, our dutiful legislators don’t lack hustle.

One area in which they truly excel is in generating a nice, steady stream of bills. With their combination of wisdom and pluck, the members of the General Assembly really aim to keep things humming by focusing on quantity over quality, generating an impressive array of bills for a parttime body. They recognize that this is a numbers game – not every piece of paper that passes through the State House is going to be a winner, but if you generate enough of them, one or two are bound to hit. Think of our laws as a lot like scratch tickets: most of them are a waste of time, but the creation of them keeps a lot of Rhode Islanders employed. Oh, and you can easily purchase them from track-suited men in gas stations.

Two great examples of our legislature’s admirable work ethic made news in the past month. The first was a bill to declare Rhode Island-style calamari as the official state appetizer, introduced by the Right Honourable Rep. Joseph McNamara (DWarwick, Cranston). While this might seem frivolous at first glance, it’s actually a marvel of legislative efficiency, solving, as it does, two problems at the same time: it finally settles the

14

Providence Monthly | April 2013

contentious issue of whether to order the calamari, the clam cakes or – dark horse – the fried ravioli, while at the same time enshrining into law the belief of all God-fearing, red blooded Rhode Islanders that you have no business ordering the calamari as your entrée. (I’m looking at you, Auntie Marie.)

The second was a masterful piece of statecraft submitted by the Most High and Exalted Rep. Joy Hearn (D-Barrington), a bill that would ban individuals under the age of 21 from clubs that serve alcohol. This is actually just the latest of several times she’s introduced such legislation, thus earning the nickname by which she’s known around Barrington’s many underage drinking parties, “Kill Joy.” This time, however, it was done in tandem with a resolution from the Providence City Council seeking the same ban, sponsored by Their Imperial Majesties and Conquering Lions of the Tribe of Judah Councilmen Seth Yurdin and Nicholas Narducci. The

stated aim of the bill is to curb violence at nightclubs. Of course, some less visionary folks have tried to criticize it as an unnecessary restriction on the rights of younger citizens, or a crippling blow to music clubs that survive on 18+ shows, or a hindrance to Providence’s music scene as major touring bands are unlikely to stop in a city where many of their fans can’t attend, or a ridiculous, ham-fisted exercise in creating the illusion of “getting tough” on a problem without actually having to accomplish anything. Some even point out that most of the violence is perpetrated by people over 21, but they can’t see the forest for the trees. The real brilliance of this fine piece of legalese is that since almost every imaginable concert venue serves alcohol, Providence is now safe from the like of Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, One Direction or – God save us – Ke$ha. Plus, now no one under the age of 21 will ever get drunk again – ever. Keep up the good work, General Assembly.

Spring Awakening

New openings on Atwells Federal Hill is on the rise this spring: new restaurants and boutiques have opened up in quick succession over the last month. While Blush Wine Bar has closed, Nami, a new sushi and hibachi restaurant, has opened in the space once occupied by Federal Hill Pizza at 198 Atwells. Nuit, a women’s clothing and accessory boutique, has opened at 415 Atwells. Owner Julia Sullivan makes some of the clothing herself, and the rest is vintage finds and apparel made by local designers. L’Eleganza, at 256 Atwells, is a new bridal and formalwear shop offering custom designed veils and shoes. The store features designs by owner Donn Edward, and will also do wedding cakes.

There’s a new app that’s making Providence an even more bike-friendly city.

The VHB Bikeways app allows you to track and plan your routes. Just start recording when you start a route, hit stop when you get to your destination, and enter a description of where you were headed. The data recorded goes towards researching and addressing the needs of cyclists in town. downtownprovidence.com

DePasquale Plaza

Photography: Jonathan Beller, Illustration: Jessica Pollak

Pulse |

Pulse |

City

The Big Idea

By John Taraborelli

Home Grown

Planting the seeds of a greener, tastier city It’s amazing how far

local food has come in such a short period of time. A little over a decade ago, we didn’t give it much thought, content as were to enjoy our food with little regard to its provenance. Now, you’d be hard pressed to find a city restaurant that doesn’t brag about sourcing locally or a neighborhood without a seasonal farmer’s market.

Of course, the most local food is the kind you grow yourself, and more urban dwellers are doing that all the time as community gardens sprout throughout Providence. Drake Patten plans to help them, too. The former executive director of the Steel Yard, which helped reconnect people to the industrial arts, she has moved on to her next venture, cluck!, an urban farm supply store. After a long, and at times contentious, effort to get the zoning necessary to set up shop in a former gas station on Broadway, she’s finally ready to open for business this spring. Aspiring urban green thumbs will have a source of not only supplies, but know-how, and in the process new life will be breathed into a formally blighted property. We asked her to offer some wisdom on how to grow a more fruitful city.

• First of all, anyone can find space, whether it’s a windowsill or a community garden plot. And the best thing you can do is to go for it. Just do it!

• Ask for help. Be prepared to be disappointed and astonished.

• Growing is an art, but getting there is a healthy reminder about the value of learning. I love that more than anything else: one year you have an amazing garden; the next year, not so great. It is humbling and very much like life – filled with surprises.

• I’d like to see more public space devoted to growing food. The mayor recently announced Lots of Hope, an initiative that will put vacant lots into use as community gardens. This is tremendous.

• I hope that the State (not each community on its own) will create legislation around the use of public land and abandoned property, and on the legality of backyard animals, the right to turn your front yard into food.

• This was done in the World Wars: during WWII, the State House lawn was a victory garden. What’s really exciting right now is that America is not turning to food growing because of wartime insecurity (as in the past), but because of food insecurity and the crisis we are having around our health and the health of our children.

• Not enough can be said about the work of the Southside Community Land Trust – simply incredible. I am also inspired by Groundwork Providence’s urban nursery project and places further afield that bring local food to the city, like Pat’s Pastured. But the greatest innovation comes from the individual farmers that make it work in urban and suburban settings.

• We need more local opportunities to source what is needed: feed and tools, compost and amendments, you name it. I will feel like cluck! has succeeded when we can get at least 60% of what we sell right here in Rhode Island.

• My eight-year-old stepson recently came home excited because his teacher had a “Wii party” in school. I am utterly disinterested in kids staying indoors and “exercising” with a computer screen. You want to combat inactivity and obesity? Let’s get kids (and families) outdoors – let’s get them growing food.

• There is simply nothing better than a day that ends with eating food you grew, or grown by someone you’ve met from a place you know. I believe everyone deserves to experience that.

For more information on cluck!, find it on Facebook or email drake@cluckri.com

$25 IN ADVANCE / $30 AT DOOR. CASH BAR. SILENT AUCTION. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. Enjoy complimentarty hors d’oervres and a margarita

PURCHASE TICKETS: www.projectundercover.org OR SEND A CHECK TO:

One Selkirk Road, Cranston, RI 02905 BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

SUPPORTED BY: Barrington Printing Golden Gate Florists Rhody Mamas Stacey Doyle Photography ENTERTAINMENT BY: Matt Colasanti & Friends

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT PROJECT UNDERCOVER April 2013 | Providence Monthly

15

tt t t t ttt t t t ttt t t t ttt t t t ttt t t t Since 1919

WINDOW/WALL TREATMENTS & FABRICS

THE WHOLE MONTH OF APRIL

401/421-5157

PAINT

173 WICKENDEN PVD

DECORATIVE HARDWARE

www.adlersri.com

f

RUSTIGIAN RUGS Proud supporter of The Initiative To Educate Afghan Women Please consider a contribution to help educate Afghanistan’s future women leaders.

Your tax deductible gift, matched until May 15, will directly impact the lives of Afghan women and the many people they hope to change through their education and leadership.

Visit www.ieaw.org/support/ or call 401-369-7431 $25,000 Challenge Match Donors: Rosalind Rustigian, Chair • Susan Crudgington, Vice-Chair Rustigian Rugs • Nora Leake Cameron, Past Chair • Drucilla Cortell Gensler, Chair, Advisory Board The Initiative To Educate Afghan Women PO Box 603188, Providence, RI 02906-0188 | a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

17

Thayer StreetStyle FAcINg thAyER BEAUty SpA & BOUtIQUE Offering luxurious facials, waxing, nail, & eyelash services and selling 25 different beauty lines, this is one spot you shouldn’t miss! Voted Best Day Spa in Providence for the last 4 years.

297 Thayer Street 331-4777 www.facingthayer.com

NAVA NAVA specializes in new and vintage apparel, shoes and boots, hand bags, jewelry and accessories.

Spring is here and NAVA is stocked with everything you need to greet the warm days ahead.

281 Thayer Street 453-6282 www.shopNAVA.com

eat, drink, and be

happy hour when you spend an

pIE IN thE Sky Celebrating 20 years in business, Pie in the Sky would like to offer 20% off purchases $25 and up when you mention this ad (exp. 4/30/13).

or two at our bar.

225 Thayer Street 861-3951 Find us on Facebook

$7 Sizzle, Swizzle, & Swirl Happy Hour SpEctRUm-INdIA Your place for the unexpected, unusual and exotic. Energizing and healing stones, incense, zodiac candles, essential oils, jewelry, wind chimes, belly dancing outfits, henna supplies & tattoos and so much more.

252 Thayer Street 421-1010 www.spectrumIndia.com

Daily 4:00-7:00pm | Available at the bar

Enjoy a premium selection of hand-crafted cocktails, and delicious menu items like our Prime Sliders or Seared Ahi Tuna.

All for only $7.

SQUIRES SALON This three time “Best of Rhode Island” winner has been providing expert hair, skin, nail and body care for men and women alike. A Brown & RISD tradition since 1958.

10 Euclid Avenue 274-5660 www.squiressalon.com

18

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Providence | 401.272.2271 | 10 Memorial Blvd.

Pulse |

Scene in PVD

We’re off to see the Diva, The Wonderful Diva of Style!

Lovers of the arts gathered for the 11th Annual Gamm Theatre Snow Ball at the Ski Lodge. Guests hobnobbed with Gamm artists around the piano bar and enjoyed skithemed activities plus a raffle. All proceeds benefitted the non-profit’s theatre and educational programs. gammtheatre.org.

Photography by Mike Braca.

Marguerite and Wells Pile

Just follow the YELLOW BRICK ROAD...

Sunday, April 7th 11:00-5pm Sale through May 4th Richard Donelly, Stef Work, Alex Amoroso, Amanda Amoroso Becca Bertrand, Tom King, Coline Covington

20% Off

Bring this in this coupon for an additional

15% Off for a total of

35% Off

Karen Carpenter, Rachel Delude, Madeleine Lambert, Jamie Hansen, Alli McMaster

A specialty boutique Open Daily 10-5:30 Saturday 10-5

The Village CenTer

290 County road, Barrington 247-1087 Bob and Roxie Andrade

Talia Triangolo, Mike Commendatore, Katie Travers

Contemporary women’s apparel, lingerie, shoes and accessories

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

19

SOmERSET Subaru Forester • outback • XV crosstrek • Impreza • Legacy

CLOSER THAN YOU THINK Just 15 minutes from Providence!

www.somersetautogroup.com 1451 brayton point road, somerset, ma

Subaru SaleS: 1-800-922-3445 Free Pick UP & Delivery!

SOmERSET ChrySler

Jeep

DoDge

ram

www.somersetautogroup.com 1491 brayton point road, somerset, ma

JeeP SaleS: 1-800-495-5337

Behind the scenes at Roger Williams Park Zoo

by Grace Lentini Ro, the female Snow Leopard

Photo: (Top) Alan August, (bottom) Grace Lentini

“Wake up, George! Wake

up, Gracie!” This is how zookeeper Al D’Ercole greets two very special siblings each morning. George is passed out on his hammock, while Gracie is bright-eyed and bushy-tailed – well, sort of. As Al slowly turns on all of the lights it becomes clear who is a morning person… er bear, and who is not. George and Gracie are sibling Moon Bears. They are huge, and they trust Al. These Moon Bears are full of personality. “I’ve worked with a lot of bears and every single one has a different personality,” says Al. “George is playful, very curious and very easy going. Gracie on the other hand, is a little more serious – she’s a thinker. She seems to put more thought into things and is really good at problem solving, and he is really good at reaping the rewards of her smarts.”

Moon Bears, and all captive animals, require more than just food and shelter to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Each animal takes part in enrichment.

According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), enrichment is a way to enhance the environments in which these animals live according to their natural habitats and biological behaviors. So for Moon Bears, a piece of static enrichment, something that is a permanent feature of the exhibit, is the wobble tree. Imagine a metal pole with a square basket on top. The square basket has slots cut out of the sides. Fruit is placed into the basket and in order for the bears to get it, they must move

the pole back and forth to shake it out.

This is where the bear’s individual personalities come into play. Just as Gracie is the first bear to rise and shine in the morning, she is the one who has figured out the wobble tree and is able to maneuver the fruit out of it. George, on the other hand, has a more relaxed approach. Just as he is last to rise in the morning, he does not put any effort into getting fruit out of the wobble tree.

Instead, he patiently sits next to his sister as she persistently wobbles the pole back and forth until, at last, the fruit comes out, at which point George happily eats it right up. (Sibling rivalry, oh, how I can relate.)

Now, I’d like you to meet Ro, the

resident Snow Leopard, and she is gorgeous. Snow Leopards are famous for being very close with their keepers, and Ro is no different. Just like house cats, they like to be scratched – through a protective mesh barrier. And like a house cat, Ro will come on her own terms, in her own time, and then be a sucker for the famous scratches from Al through mesh. Ro had a companion for awhile, Ghurka, and although snow leopards are solitary creatures, these two were crazy about one another. Ro would take food from Ghurka’s mouth and he wouldn’t care. Ro would also lay on Ghurka and the pair would start each morning by grooming one another. Although Ghurka left, there is hope that

Keeper Amanda Markey and the charismatic Red River Hogs

the zoo will have a new male coming soon, and we’ll just have to wait and see if he’ll let her take food from his mouth.

One thing that truly needs to be understood when these animals lives are considered is safety both is for the animal and for the keeper. These animals are wild. They are not domesticated.

They maintain their wild instincts regardless of the fact that they are ambassadors to the public. The keeper never goes in a holding area or exhibit with the animals, especially carnivorous animals. Remember, carnivores eat meat, and humans are made up of a lot of meat. As much as the keepers have earned the trust and have trained these animals, there is always a protective barrier between them and the animal.

This keeps both safe.

And how about another interesting pair? Meet the Red River Hogs – Harley and Persephone – and how they met. Whenever the zoo gets a new animal, it must go through a quarantine period that assures that there will be no new diseases introduced into the zoo. The animal is kept separate from the others for about a month. Zookeeper Amanda Markey, who works in The Plains of Africa section, received Harley and Persephone in September.

During quarantine the pair were not allowed in the same pen but did share one wall. It was through this wall that their relationship began. They were able to smell and hear each other, so they spent a lot of time smelling each others noses and communicating the way that hogs do. Contrary to

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

21

DeWolf Tavern

Hosts Cooking Classes Every Month!

Our next class will be held on April 16th, 6:30pm-8:30pm Italian food and wine • By Reservations only

A Moon Bear gnaws on a stick for enrichment

DeWolf Tavern at Thames Street Landing 401-254-2005 259 Thames Street, Bristol www.DeWolftavern.com

East Side Primary Care welcomes

Dr. Christoph Sahar, David Ramos, NP & Jason Xynellis, PA to our practice

DSC_8096.JPG

• Colds & Flu • Minor Trauma • Sprains & Strains • X-Ray/Labs Available

• Workman’s Comp Exams • Immunization • DOT, School, and Sports Physicals

Same Day And Evening Appointments Available Monday-Friday: 9am to 8pm Saturdays & Sundays: 9am to 4pm

DSC_8097.jpg

East sidE UrgEnt CarE The Right Care, Right Now

1195 North Main Street, Providence • 401.861.3782 22

Providence Monthly | April 2013

popular belief, hogs make a wide range of sounds from grunts and squeals to higher and lower pitched sounds. It’s all hog language, and they understood each other.

The introduction happened very slowly, as it needed to, and as time went on they were able to touch noses. “They would run up to each other and then run away. They wanted to interact but were afraid or nervous,” says Amanda. The next step was to alternate who was put on exhibit. First, Harley was put on, then he was put into his holding area, then Persephone was let out. Well, Harley could not stand it any longer. As Persephone was on exhibit, Harley broke free of his holding pen by lifting up the door with his dexterous snout, scooted underneath and finally bounded towards Persephone. This all happened in a matter of moments and Amanda was unable to stop the hurried rush of introduction. There was squealing and a single display of dominance, where Harley placed his nose on top of her, and that was it. They have been the best of friends ever since. Harley could not wait to meet Persephone.

Every night they sleep in their little hay bed together and snuggle up. Now, there is quite an age difference between the two. Persephone is two and a half years old while Harley is nine and a half. “She keeps him young,” Amanda says. “She chases him around, entices him to play and performs play bows just as a dog would with their bums in the air and faces close to the ground.

There’s a fair bit of nudging and playful rough housing.”

Now, the life of a keeper isn’t all fun and games – although it is pretty darn awesome. There is also some practical training that goes along with the

everyday feeding, watering and enrichment. Why train a snow leopard?

What good does it do to be able to have a Moon Bear raise up on its hind quarters on command with the motivation of some tasty grapes as a reward? Yes, it is fun to scratch a hog’s belly through bars while it is laying down, but what is the purpose?

These animals’ lives are entrusted to the keepers and to the veterinarians. These training techniques are a valuable tool in being able to discern the health and wellbeing through a series of trainable movements. It might be something as simple as having George open his mouth and keeping it open. This allows the vet to look at the dentition and assess tooth and gum health. By having Persephone lay on her side, the vet will be able to perform an ultrasound to discern whether or not she is pregnant. (By the way, how adorable would it be to see a bunch of little hogs running amok on exhibit?)

Luckily for keepers who provide guidance and positive reinforcement, many species are heavily food-motivated, meaning that they will aim to please the keeper for a grape or banana or other favorite food.

These animals are at Roger Williams Park Zoo for many reasons. Some are endangered, some are threatened, some are rescues. Whatever the case may be, they are here, and we are lucky to have them. I remember going to the zoo as a child; now I go with my friends and their kids, heck, I even go with a group of adults or by myself. It is nice to see the animals out on exhibit but it has been an honor to get to know these animals from a different perspective, from the inside looking out.

Photo: Alan August

April 5th-April 14th

Now

o p eN o N

M o N d ay

Night

featuring t h e d. S eSSio NS

Follow us on

JoiN US For C o C k ta i l S , B a r S N a C k S MUSiC & daNCiNg

Request a consultation online or call us at 331 - 0202 polacekplasticsurgery.com

Specializing in NoN-iNvasive TreaTmeNTs

CosmeTiC eNhaNCemeNTs

Botox • Juvederm Restylane • Dysport Medical Grade Skin Peels

Facelifts • Tummy Tuck Eyelid Surgery • Breast Augmentations Breast Lifts • Reductions

Fraxel Dual laser Dr. Lori Polacek is a board certified plastic surgeon who has enhanced the appearance of thousands of patients

Now opeN at our New locatioN 2000 Chapel View Boulevard | Suite 110 | Cranston 331 - 0202 • polacekplasticsurgery.com

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

23

Still Shining The jewelry industry is a big part of Providence’s past – but where does it stand in the present, and can it play a role in our future?

by John Taraborelli • PhoTograPhy by James Jones [Above photos: Four locally designed pieces from Arden Jewelry Manufacturing, House of Cach, Accent Accessories and Bernardo Manufacturing ]

These days we proudly call Providence the “Creative Capital” or the “Renaissance City,” but once upon a time it was known as the “Beehive of Industry.”

From the end of the Revolutionary War right on through the Depression, Providence was one of the country’s industrial powerhouses; hard as it may seem to believe now, for a time it was one of the wealthiest cities in America. One of the main engines of our city’s industrialeconomic boom was the jewelry industry. In the 1880s, Rhode Island was the number one state for jewelry manufacturing, accounting for one quarter of the entire country’s production.

In the last century, manufacturing of most products in most states was shipped overseas. Providence’s economic base began to crumble as factories went dark. And the jewelry industry was no different. Now it’s simply a longgone part of our industrial legacy and most of the factories have been reborn as mixed-use redevelopments. Even the Jewelry District is being rebranded as the “Knowledge District.” The industry is gone… right?

Wrong. You could, however, be forgiven for thinking otherwise. Jewelry manufacturing employs approximately 7500 people throughout the state, down from 32,500 at the height of the industrial boom. The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training projects that between 2008 and 2018 the number of 24

Providence Monthly | April 2013

jobs in the category of “jewelers, precious stone workers and metal workers” will shrink from 1,246 to 961. However, grim statistics like that must be looked at in a larger context. Manufacturing as a whole is a much smaller part of the American economy. While jewelry is no longer the state’s largest industry, it still ranks a respectable third behind health care and tourism.

There are still about 870 companies that live off jewelry, whether it’s directly – design, manufacturing, wholesale – or indirectly, in the form of services and support like shipping, display cases and packaging. Speidel, one of the legacy companies from the state’s jewelry heyday, is based in Cranston. Swarovksi, a global luxury brand based in Austria, maintains its North American headquarters in Cranston as well. And then, of course, there’s the upstart that everyone’s talking about, Alex and Ani (more on them later).

The fact is, the jewelry industry in and around Providence certainly isn’t what it used to be, but it’s a whole lot better than you probably think it is – and it still has global reach. From the traditional shop floors where largely immigrant workers are assembling costume jewelry and affixing it to cards, to big time brands like Alex and Ani and Swarovski, design houses that keep a deliberately low profile while selling to major clients worldwide, and creative young designers

selling their handcrafted stuff on Etsy while working day jobs; Providence is still an industry leader – and that’s barely scratching the surface.

Hidden in Plain Sight I’m sitting in a handsomely appointed apartment on the West Side with three women in their late ‘20s/early ‘30s.

They’re friends – they all live within a few blocks of each other, they frequent the same bars, and two of them are leaving for a vacation in Mexico together the next morning – but they’re also competitors. They’re all designers for different jewelry companies around the Providence area.

Erin Myles works for Bernardo Manufacturing in Rumford. Shara Spelkoman is with Accent Fashion Accessories in North Providence. And Libby Hodgkins designs for Arden Jewelry Manufacturing in Johnston. Unlike most people in their social circle and general demographic, they’re all enthusiastic about their current jobs and career prospects: they enjoy the work they do, feel they’re fairly compensated for it and see room for growth.

“We live in an artist town where people are scraping to get by. Our health care is awesome. We have lots of benefits. The money is more than decent. I think we’re all in the top earning tier of our social circles,” explains Spelkoman, adding with a

laugh, “that’s not saying much.”

Despite the abundant opportunity they see in their industry, all three sort of lucked into it. They all arrived in Providence from elsewhere: Spelkoman from New Jersey, Hodgkins from Georgia, and Myles from nearby Attleboro. But none of them came here (if you’ll excuse the pun) by design.

Spelkoman took the most unique path. She came to study fashion merchandising at Johnson and Wales. Her entrée into the industry was through a school externship with a Thayer Street retailer, who then left her boutique to go into jewelry. Spelkoman followed, learning the tools and techniques of her newfound trade on the fly. She took to it quickly and was recruited for the gig with almost no experience or training.

“I got my job before I graduated,” she recalls. “I was taking my lunch break to hand in term papers.”

Hodgkins and Myles, on the other hand, both went to school for metal smithing and jewelry making (at Savannah College of Art and Design and UMass Dartmouth respectively). However, it wasn’t Providence’s reputation as an industry hotbed that brought them here – they just happened to find jobs with local companies. “I knew there had been a huge jewelry industry here, but I was a metal smithing major and I barely knew this existed,” says Myles. Hodgkins adds, speaking of Myles’ college advisors,

“If you live in this tri-state area and they didn’t tell you about this, they suck.”

The fact is, for an industry with such potential, surprisingly little is being done to herald it, and its drawing power is not being harnessed. While there are state and city level efforts to attract new talent in the “meds and eds” sector, no one seems to be promoting jewelry. “None of us knew this job existed for us,” admits Spelkoman. “I don’t think there is anyone being taught to design like we do. It’s all trial and error.”

This is at least partly due to the surprising level of secrecy under which most of these jewelry makers operate – their successes aren’t being touted because these companies are tightlipped.

While all three women were more than happy to discuss their own personal careers, they were reluctant to reveal much about their employers – especially the names of their clients. This is because it’s a hyper-competitive industry in which companies are constantly trying to poach each other’s designs, customers and employees. “People hope you stick around forever in these companies, but no one expects you to,” says Spelkoman. “It’s the only industry I’ve ever seen where you can leave in the middle of something and they welcome you back three years later for

twice as much money. I still get emails from headhunters twice a week. You can almost always make a move.”

Spelkoman’s Accent Fashion Accessories is the upstart of the bunch, in business, and she was the company’s first hire. In her seven-year career, she’s moved around several times. This contrasts sharply with Hodgkins, who moved here seven years ago to take a job with Arden and has remained there ever since.

The company itself is over 75 years old, and Hodgkins works alongside people who have been with it for ages, including a woman named Dottie, who recently celebrated her 80th birthday.

Arden was her first job as a teenager.

Bernardo, where Myles works, is also a family company entering its fouth generation.

These companies maintain low profiles in part because their customers demand it. They’re designing and manufacturing for national and international retailers who are buying pieces in orders of tens of thousands and want to put their own brand names on them. Though the designers can’t brag about who they’re selling to, they’re more than happy to boast about who has worn their stuff. “We’ve all seen our work in fashion magazines, in movies, on TV,” explains Hodgkins.

“We’re designing for people who are buying thousands of pieces, so you’re bound to see somebody wearing it.” For her part, she spotted one of her pieces on Mila Kunis in Black Swan. Spelkoman has seen one of her designs on American Idol. Myles boasts of seeing one of hers on Jane Krakowski in an episode of 30 Rock, but the other two are quick to offer some good-natured harassment about one of her necklaces being a fixture around the neck of a contestant on VH-1’s reality TV trashfest Rock of Love.

What these companies do for the most part is make original samples, which are then purchased by retailers – sometimes from company-owned showrooms in New York, sometimes on spec, sometimes after many rounds of backand-forth with designers – and replicated many times over.

Traci Maceroni, a third generation owner of Bernardo, explains how it works: “The design process begins with close relationships with our merchants and our design teams. It starts conceptually with sketches and renderings. Our skilled model and mold makers take these paper patterns and bring them to life in a three-dimensional metal form. All our samples are designed and executed here. Bernardo is full fledged manufacturing plant on all levels. Every step is completed on the premise with the exception of plating.” That level of institutional know-how keeps these companies in business.

When it comes to large-scale manufacturing, however, cost is king. Bernardo says that back in the ‘70s and ‘80s it was all made here, but admits, “At present,

we can no longer afford to manufacture domestically and remain competitive, so most of our production goes overseas to Asia.” Spelkoman, too, estimates that about 80% of Accent’s products are made in China, with probably another 15% in India.

While these designers are proud of the work they’re doing, they also have no illusions about it. All three are emphatic that they don’t consider themselves artists, noting that people in their line of work who do so typically don’t last. “At the end of the day, if Walmart wants you to make a piece smaller and darker and completely different, and they want to order 300,000 of them, you give it to them,” maintains Spelkoman. “You can’t get attached.”

That lack of fine art aspiration, however, is also what keeps them in business.

Spelkoman continues: “Our companies all thrive even when the economy goes to shit. You can’t afford to go all out, but you can afford to do something little for yourself. Costume jewelry is a way to do that without breaking the bank. It’s why when the unemployment rate in this state is so terrible, we can still ask for raises.”

Art House The House of Cach stands in stark contrast to companies like Arden, Accent and Bernardo. More of an artists’ collective than a jewelry company, House of Cach is the brainchild of founder Alexa Cach and several other designers.

Instead of creating samples that will be manufactured overseas by the tens of

Clockwise: A product development wall at Bernardo Manufacturing; designer Erin Myles working in her creative work space; Erin with her finished necklace; raw chain material being soldered to the designers specifications.

thousands and sold at giant retail chains, they’re handcrafting one-of-a-kind pieces to be sold at small boutiques or direct to customers. And they definitely consider themselves artists. “When we design, we seek to break boundaries and forge new ground,” says Cach. “We believe that we are not only creating jewelry and accessories, but wearable art.”

Though its artistic aspirations are writ large, House of Cach’s business is decidedly small. Smithfied’s Flaunt Boutique is the company’s biggest account, and most of its sales are in Rhode Island or Massachusetts – though HoC has established a bit of a following in New York and out on the West Coast. The designers also offer custom work and often exhibit at direct-to-consumer shows.

Suffice to say, retail numbers are not priority number one at House of Cach. “We chose to do jewelry and accessories for a living because we don’t feel that our lives are complete if we cannot create,” the founder declares.

Just as with its designs, House of Cach’s method of marketing and growing the brand is collaborative and artistic. They team up on runway shows, accessorizing the lines presented by designers like Boston’s Candice Wu and Rhode Island’s Nick Pini. “While

we love doing runway, we specialize in multi-artist projects that blur the line between various art forms,” notes Cach.

“These projects usually involve fashion, performance art, installations, audience participation and more.”

For example, Cach points to an event last December called “On the 9th Day GOD accepted all…” done in collaboration with the Dark Lady, a downtown gay bar, and Headmaster, the self-proclaimed “bi-annual art magazine for man-lovers.”

The event explored the complex relationships between organized religion, gender, sexuality, equality and acceptance through collaborative art projects. For its part, Cach says, “HoC created numerous, and at times quite provocative, largescale accessories for each shown project and the audience was able to buy scaleddown pieces for personal use.”

HoC is in line with entrepreneurial nature of Providence’s artist community, where people who work in graphic design for large companies sell their personal work on Etsy by night. Stores like Craftland make their business on providing a retail outlet for local artisans, and small jewelry and accessory designers peddle their wares direct to consumers at places like the Providence Open Market and StyleWeek

Northeast’s Accessory Showcase. It’s a great place for an artist with a little hustle. “The city is full of artists driven by community and challenging each other to push art to its limits,” enthuses Cach.

“It’s a very supportive environment.”

Of course, that doesn’t mean that HoC isn’t dealing with the same realities as the rest of the jewelry industry. Cach notes that while manufacturing her pieces here in the US keeps her company flexible and nimble, “it is also our biggest obstacle – and Rhode Island’s high taxes do not help.”

Her assessment of the industry’s domestic prospects is mixed, but skews towards optimism. “A lot of design capabilities are here but manufacturing has moved overseas,” she notes. “It becomes very tricky at a certain point to produce the way it has been done historically in Rhode Island. Therefore the industry has changed dramatically.

However, quality, handmade and artisan styles, smaller design companies and those willing to create through those challenges are carrying the torch.”

Local Girl Made Good Another person carrying the torch for Rhode Island’s jewelry industry is Nicole Romano – in fact, she’s carried it straight through to New York City. A Rhode Island native and RISD grad (apparel design), she launched her own line with the encouragement of some very high-profile mentors, namely designer Nicole Miller and Sex and the City stylist Patricia Field. She wound up in the pages of Vogue, and her line now sells

worldwide at luxury retailers like Bergdorf Goodman NYC, Harvey Nichols Hong Kong and Kibiri London. Her label began as apparel with a sideline in accessories and jewelry, but growth and success eventually positioned those elements as her primary business.

Now the public face of her brand is in New York and LA, where she has her showrooms and PR offices, but the heart of Nicole Romano (both the label and the woman) remains here in Rhode Island, where she manufactures. “The state is not only my birthplace but it is also my edge amongst the competition,” Romano offers. “My ancestors have been tied to the jewelry business since they arrived in this country from Italy.

We know all the magic and resources that Rhode Island has to offer because we’ve grown up surrounded by them.

We know where to go to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty in order to find the most exquisite treasures.”

She’s proud of her involvement with the USA Made campaign, an initiative to encourage domestic jewelry manufacturing launched by a nonprofit industry advocacy group, the Accessories Council. “In late 2010, we started to get calls from a number of our fashion jewelry companies, letting us know that their cost of production overseas was rising,” explains Council President Karen Giberson. “They were curious about the feasibility of production in the USA, so we began to explore the topic… Nicole is a wonderful example of a USA Made member – she is dedicated to making her products here and has an exceptional quality.”

Designers like Accent Accessories’ Shara Spelkoman find plenty of opportunity in Providence: “I’ve worked for a mom-and-pop company with 25 employees, and then I have worked for companies that are essentially corporations – 200+ employees with offices in China.” She was Accent’s first hire.

Romano is an enthusiastic booster for Rhode Island’s jewelry industry, pointing to both historic expertise and current capabilities. “There is simply no other place that has the existing infrastructure to handle a country worth of manufacturing,” she says. “I see it everyday as I work with my team. What we have is a golden history and craftsmen working today with decades of tradition behind their skills, allowing endless possibilities for the future.”

Though success has taken her around the world, Romano remains determined to help foster creativity and industry back home. “I believe I can make a contribution to the growing recognition of our industry by utilizing the highly skilled and talented workers in my home state,” she boasts. “As a native Rhode Islander, I have chosen to continue the proud tradition of jewelry manufacturing here rather than in any other city.”

The Big Story When talking about the modern day jewelry industry in Rhode Island, the elephant in the room is Alex and Ani. In a few short years, the company has gone from local upstart to national phenomenon to multifaceted, rapidly expanding lifestyle brand – all fueled by the seemingly endless desire for its stackable bangles and collectible charms. Since 2009, its number of employees has skyrocketed from about 23 in Rhode Island to over 650 worldwide – and it proudly maintains its world headquarters in Cranston, hometown of founder Carolyn Rafaelian.

Although from the outside Rafaelian looks like an overnight success, she was actually born and raised in the jewelry business. Her family’s business, Cinerama, dates back to the golden age of manufacturing in Rhode Island, at one point boasting a factory in downtown Providence where it made its signature

American flag pins. Though it’s no longer downtown, Cinerama is still alive and well in Cranston, where it manufactures – what else? – Alex and Ani products. But Rafaelian still remembers those days, and she witnessed the long, slow decline of the legacy brands – the Coros, the Trifaris, the Monets. She marvels at what was lost. “The other day I was walking by an old Coro building,” she recounts, “and it was amazing to stop and think that that huge building used to be all one company. Now it’s a lot of different tenants, but it used to be one company.”

She entered the family business at a time of great turmoil. As she recalls it, the sequence of events went something like this: “The world was basically manufacturing – there were no importers. Everybody was a manufacturer. The manufacturers sold to the wholesalers who had the relationships with the retailers. Years later the wholesalers were not as important – the retailers were bigger and stronger and had more buying power and wanted to deal directly with the factories. That was the big change when I started. The wholesalers died off. The manufacturers, if they weren’t dealing directly with the retailer, they were going under and instead becoming importers. Not many companies survived that period. That’s when it was a decline. There weren’t as many platers and stone houses – and even if there were, nobody was using them.”

Cinerama managed to survive, in Rafaelian’s estimation, because of shrewd moves her father made in advance of the decline. For years he had been buying out stone companies, chain companies and the like, leaving him with surplus inventory that later sustained Cinerama through private label work.

“That’s kind of where I jumped in, because I was able to create using that

Clockwise: Arden Jewelry casters Oscar and Martin in their workshop; designer Libby Hodgkins working in her office, which is full of magazines and tear sheets for inspiration to her; a rubber mold which casts jewelry components – some are very old; Arden mold maker Brian working.

stuff – and the quality was always superior to China,” she recalls. “That was why my private label clients kept me.”

Eventually, Rafaelian started designing pieces in her father’s shop – the kind of pieces that excited her. “There was no expectation except that I just wanted to go into the factory and make things for myself. It was a creative outlet for me,” she remembers. “And as things started manifesting it turned into a really solid business based on passion.” Thus, Alex and Ani was born and became a fastmoving success.

That success doesn’t happen in a vacuum either – a thriving jewelry business has ripple effects that spread well beyond Alex and Ani. “There are so many facets to what we do – everything from packaging to display cases. All of these companies, we’ve become their number one client,” says Rafaelian. “And they’re local – all made in America. People we’re dealing with had to add shifts and extend their buildings.”

This shared success up and down

the supply chain is a common theme.

Spelkoman claims that Accent Accessories “keeps three or four carding companies in business. We have shipping departments, casters, gluers, drivers.” Libby Hodgkins of Bernardo Manufacturing adds, “Getting what we design to the customer involves about 30 people.” This is why Alex and Ani CEO Giovanni Feroce disagrees with the Department of Labor and Training’s projections of a shrinking industry. “I can’t imagine that’s the case,” he counters. “When you look at the vertical, and how it works, it would only make sense that all of these organizations within the supply chain are going to increase.”

There is constant conversation about economic development in Rhode Island, and plenty of institutions and organizations are trying to contribute in their own ways – whether it’s the City of Providence and the State trying to spur investment by “meds and eds” in the former 195 land, the EDC betting

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

27

it all on a video game company, Betaspring mentoring and nurturing tech startups, or countless other initiatives, small and large, aimed at revitalizing our economy. Why isn’t anyone talking about the jewelry industry on that level? It’s a sector in which Rhode Island is uniquely suited to be a leader and has an institutional legacy to draw on. It’s attracting and retaining young college graduates. It’s keeping a network of ancillary businesses active.

Yet where are the investments, the tax credits, the efforts to recruit talent, the marketing of our assets?

Alex and Ani’s Feroce speculates that perhaps the jewelry companies themselves are at least partially to blame for holding their own industry back – their secretive nature and costdriven approach to selling prevents them from really trumpeting what they do well. “Those that manufacture here need to tell the world what they do,” he advises. “Directly approach the major brands again, but instead of approaching it via price point, approach

it via process and why that’s important – it’s made in America.”

The Accessories Council’s Karen Giberson agrees that Rhode Island is not doing enough to market its own expertise and capabilities. “Rhode Island still has some great manufacturing options,” she says. “We wish we had a guidebook to the factories – what their core competencies are and contact information. In fact, I welcome those calls and will be happy to direct our curious designers and brands their way.”

Perhaps with a concerted effort to focus on what we have to offer – and maybe a little reminder that Rhode Island has a tradition of being the best at this kind of work – the jewelry industry can rally back even stronger. Feroce is certainly optimistic about the prospects: “The bottom line is people should have confidence in the industry not only being revitalized, but once again stamping the Greater Providence area as the jewelry capital of not only America, but the world.”

Designer Alexa Cach’s company, House of Cach, is more artist’s collaborative than manufacturer. “Our vision is to embrace fashion as a form of art and communication,” she says. House of Cach employs five designers and two marketing/social media people.

Jewelry Industry in RI – History & Stats I

n 1830 there were 27 jewelry firms employing 280 workers in Providence; by 1850, there were 57 firms and 590 workers.

B

y 1880, Rhode Island was the leading state in the manufacture of jewelry, accounting for more than one quarter of the entire national jewelry production. Of the state’s 148 firms, 142 of them were in Providence.

B

y 1890, Providence’s numbers had grown to more than 200 firms with almost 7,000 workers.

F

rom 1978, when the industry peaked in Rhode Island, to 1996, the number of jewelry workers shrank to 13,500 from 32,500.

J

ewelry manufacturing lost 1500 jobs in 1996-1997 alone.

T

he RI Economic Development Corporation divides the jewelry industry in RI into six categories: · Jewelry boxes, containers, displays and packaging · Jewelry findings · Jewelry finishing and assembly · Jewelry manufacturers and casting companies · Jewelry materials services and support (mostly support sys-

tems such as janitorial supplies/ services, insurance, printing and copying not directly related to jewelry) · Wholesale Jewelry Distribution

A

s of July 2012, there were about 870 companies that fall into the categories above. There were 7,500 employees in jewelry manufacturing alone.

Get the Look 1. Nicole Romano, nicoleromano.com 2. Jessica Ricci Jewelry, jessicariccijewelry.com 3. Nicole Romano, nicoleromano.com 4. Accent Fashion Accessories 5. House of Cach, houseofcach.com 6. Alex and Ani, alexandani.com 7. Jessica Ricci Jewelry, jessicariccijewelry.com 8. Swarovski, swarovski.com

1

7 8

2 3

6

4

5

Online Exclusive See another look on our website at www.providenceonline.com

Learn To Sail!

In Providence

young artist summer camps for kids and teens ages 7–17

Youth Summer Sailing Camp

Adult Evening Lessons Too!

NEW - Kayaks!

continuing education

401-454-6200 Learn more: 401.454.SAIL (7245) • www.communityboating.com

FRENCH-AMERICAN SCHOOL OF RHODE ISLAND

Learn to Fence this Summer!

learning through languages

ce.risd.edu

ROWING & SCULLING CLASSES

1,2,3 SOLEIL Summer Fun in French at FASRI 2013 • The FASRI Summer Program provides a unique opportunity for all children and young adults to gain French language skills through engaging, fun,

Full and half-day camps for beginners and expert fencers begin June 24

For Adults & Kids (13-19 Years Old) No rowing experience necessary

and fulfilling activities. Travel to other

Sign up for an introductory rowing lesson at 9:00, 9:45, 10:30 and 11:15am for these

countries through language learning all without leaving home.

Open HOuse dates

Starting June 24, 2013

APR 20 • JUN 15 • JULY 27 • SEP 7

For more information contact Anne Lacoste Kapstein alkapstein@fasri.org

75 John Street Providence, RI 02906 Tel 401.274 3325 www.fasri.org

30

Providence Monthly | April 2013

(401) 434-2404 East Providence, RI For information & registration visit

www.RIFAC.com

For more information, including class schedule and rates, call or visit our website: Located on the East Side of Providence

www.RowNBC.org 401.272.1838

Give your kids a vacation to remember!

Hands on Summer Fun for children ages 4-15

Summer Camps

Rock & Roll

at Roger Williams Park Zoo April Vacation Sessions for 4 – 10 year olds

Get details and register online at rwpzoo.org

Summer Sessions for kids ages 4 – 13

Theatre Art

art • basketball • cooking natural science • photography

50 Rolfe Sq. Cranston 401.490.9475

www.providencecountryday.org 660 Waterman Ave. • E. Providence, RI 401.438.5170

www.artists-exchange.org

BEST HOOPS Basketball Camp

Now in its 23rd Year!

At Bishop Hendricken HS, Warwick, RI ExpERIENCE CAmp STAFF oF CollEGE, HIGH SCHool ANd mIddlE SCHool CoACHES.

3-Great Sessions At Southern New England's Top Instructional Basketball Camp For Boys & Girls

BEST HOOPS

Monday-Friday: 9am-3pm: July 22-26 & July 29-August 2 Ages: grade sch. 8-10, Middle sch. 11-13, High sch. 14-18 (separate instruction for girls)

Cost: $195 Family and 2-week discounts available.

SUPER HOOPS

3-Day "GET Ready Now" Camp for boys and girls, MS/HS ages 11-18 Monday-Wednesday, August 5-7,9AM-3pM • Cost $170

www.besthoopsbasketballcamp.com • 463-6490 • besthoops@email.com

Camp DireCtors: Coach steve Ceseretti & Coach Jamal Gomes

JUST S CCER ONLY SOCCER MATTERS 689 Quaker Lane , Rte.2 West Warwick WHERE

TEAM PRICING FOOTWEAR APPAREL EQUIPMENT MON-FRI - 10-7 EMBROIDERY SAT - 10-5 SCREENPRINTING NUMBERING & LETTERING

401-827-7722

BRING THIS AD AND GET $5 OFF A $35 PURCHASE

The Children’s Workshop

Make Music This Summer!

Quality Child Care and Early Education since 1990

Is It Summer Yet? Summer Programs for ages 6wks - 12yrs

• Chamber Music (1-2 week) include: • Jazz, Rock & Blues • Piano Plus & Piano Kids

Workshops

EArLy ChiLdhood

SoundPlay • Music Together®

Open in Cranston!

228-3317 www.childrensworkshop.com Providence . Pawtucket . Central Falls . Riverside 383-9958 728-3050 727-4474 228-6209

Classes & private Lessons Ensembles • keyboard & Audio Tech Lab Call 401.248.7001 or visit riphil.org/musicschool

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

31

City Style

AT HOME / SHOP TALK / THE LOOK / BEAUTY / GET FIT About the Homeowners Joanna Levitt and Ben Britton live in an apartment with a cottage feel on the East Side. She is the Director of Commercial Leasing and Marketing for Cornish Associates and co-directs the design website getalongandgo.com. Ben is a freelance photographer and works for Thames and Kosmos making educational science kits for kids.

2

1

3

6 4 5

Photography: Benjamin Britton

Worldly and Vintage Goods 1. This is a print I picked up in Florence, Italy. The original is from 1936, and was an advertisement for a bouillon cube. The little man looks like a spy, which makes for an interesting story. I’m always attracted to bold graphic design. 2. One of my favorite shops is Fishs Eddy in NYC (fishseddy.com). They have an ever changing and vast collection of new and vintage ceramics.

Many pieces from my collection were found there. 3. This shelf is from the Warwick Bottling Works. They were a local bottling manufacturer famous for their ginger ale. I use it as a bar - which seems fitting. This piece was given to me by friends at the former Uncle Sig’s Toy Store on Hope Street. 4. The walls throughout

the house are covered in planks of rough sewn pine - with the bark still attached. They were all natural when I moved in, but I’ve painted them to create a cleaner, beachy feel. Sometimes I feel as if I live inside a tree house. 5. Every year I take a trip to the Brimfield Antique Show in Brimfield, MA. Some years I leave with amazing finds, like these orange molded plastic school chairs. I carried these chairs nearly a mile on foot to get from the dealer to my car. I still regret not buying all six. 6. This table is one of my favorites. Its curvy chrome legs hold up a red and white floral lace patterned top. I never need a tablecloth. This piece was also given to me by friends at Uncle Sig’s Toy Store.

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

33

Time to Redecorate for Spring!

Custom Framing • Ready Made Frames • Original Works of Art

P R OV I D E N C E PICTURE Rte. 95, Exit 24, Branch Ave. (Next to Benny’s) Mon-Sat 8:30-6:30

www.providencepictureframe.com

FRAME

D RY D E N GALLERY

7, place Vendôme - Paris

www.fred.com

Visit our New Location at

2000 Chapel View Blvd., Suite 220 Cranston ▪ RI, 02920 ▪ 401 943-4700 www.BlingEyewear.com

34

Providence Monthly | April 2013

City Style |

The Look

by Jen Brister and Jane Parisi

Forever Young

Abel Hernandez Stylist and founder of SpiffyGents.com

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a first-generation Dominican-American, born in New York City and raised in Providence. I grew up in the Hartford Projects, near Olneyville Square. Growing up in the projects, I wore Timberland boots, Air Force One Nikes, tall tees and ill fitting jeans. It wasn’t until a trip to the Dominican Republic that all of that changed. I was captivated by the elegance and dignity of the local countrymen. After that trip, I became interested in men’s clothing, and slowly developed my own unique style.

You have used your love of style to develop Spiffy Gents.

What can someone expect when they visit the site?

The men’s apparel at Spiffy Gents aims to offer gentlemen a collection of unique, sharp designs that will help them develop their personal style. I want all men, even those of us on a budget, to have the opportunity to look our best.

Clothing has the power

to influence attitude.

How would you describe your personal style?

Tailored. I have apprenticed with tailors who have taught me to appreciate the craft, and the quality of the perfect fit. The fit of a pant leg or a waistline can make or break an outfit; the garments I choose for my own wardrobe are specific to my measurements. Fitted clothing is not only more comfortable, but tailoring compliments your body.

Photography: Corey Grayhorse

When talking about Spiffy Gents you use the word dignity.

How can a person’s dress promote dignity?

When I was a mentor at New Urban Arts, I worked with a student, who like myself, went from dressing in baggy, indifferent clothing to button up shirts, dress pants and dress shoes. It was amazing how the change of clothes improved his confidence, self-respect and positive behavior. If someone is wearing an outfit that emphasizes the importance of his or her presentation, that person starts carrying him or herself with more dignity.

How does living in Providence inspire your personal style?

Providence is a city dense with culture; there is a lot for an artist to draw from. One aspect of my aesthetic that I can definitely attribute to the Providence community is my love for bright, bold pops of color influenced by my Dominican heritage and the rich Caribbean culture of the South and West sides. Our city is a blend of the old and the new, which is how I describe my personal style.

You can find Abel online at SpiffyGents.com to learn more about enhancing your personal style. Jane and Jen run the local fashion blog IamtheEverydayGirl.com

Agapé Medical Spa offers the latest stateof-the-art technology in the quest for skin rejuvenation.

The Vampire Lift uses your own Platelet Rich Plasma to correct early signs of aging.

Agapé of Warwick 400 Bald Hill Rd. Suite 506 Warwick 401-737-SKIN

Agapé of Fall River

191 Bedford Street The Melcor Building Fall River 508-674-4000

agapemedical.com April 2013 | Providence Monthly

35

$5 Happy Hour Appetizers Weekdays between 3-6pm (Wayland Square location only)

City Style |

Get Fit

By Jane C. Govednik

Building Lean Muscle

Kevin Stamps makes us faster, stronger… he has the technology I first started weight training back

White Tiger Roll HARUKI EAST

172 Wayland Ave Providence / 223-0332 HARUKI EXPRESS 112 Waterman St Providence / 421-0754

HARUKI CRANSTON 1210 Oaklawn Ave Cranston / 463-8338

WWW.HARUKISUSHI.COM

Nominated Best Erotic Boutique in U.S., AVN Awards 2012

Mister Sister Erotica

More Toys than the Devil has Sinners Open Mon 12-8, Tue-Thur 11-9, Fri-Sat 11-10, Sun 11-5

268 Wickenden Street Providence • 421- 6969 36

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Kevin Stamps gives personal attention during training sessions

them achieve their fitness goals.

When I went in for a training session with Kevin, I could tell right away that he’s dedicated to doing his job well.

He said he puts in a lot of hours as a personal trainer - it’s his full-time job but it’s because he’s passionate about helping his clients succeed.

We got started on a total-body weight training workout, and I realized I hadn’t bench pressed or done sets on a leg press machine in years. Weight lifting at my regular gym would entail navigating my way through a bunch of guys flexing in the mirror, but working out with Kevin gave me the chance to focus only on myself. It was nice to not

have to worry about coming up with my own workout; I just followed Kevin’s lead as he took me though sets for my chest and back, shoulders, legs and abs, with some cardio intervals thrown in for good measure. When I finished the workout I was spent - in a very good way. It felt so great to get back to weight training, especially with Kevin making sure I was putting in all my effort. I know from experience that if I keep it up, I can get my lean, muscular high school body back, just in time for summer. Dexter Training Concepts, 1543 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence. 228-7906. dextertraining.com

and studios for a fraction of what it would normally cost. For $75 you get a passport-sized book of tickets that you can redeem at 41 different yoga and Pilates studios throughout Rhode Island. The tickets are good for two free

classes at each studio within a twoweek period, with some studios offering two weeks of unlimited access for free. Passport tickets are valid through December 31, 2013. More information at www.yogaandpilatespassport.com

FIT DEALS Personal fitness and mental well-being are equally important, but does the cost of yoga or Pilates prevent you from giving these practices a shot?

Check out the Yoga & Pilates Passport and explore different styles, teachers

Photography: Amy Amerantes

Featuring the

when I was in high school, under the guidance of my swimming and track coaches. I was reluctant to do it at first because I bought into the notion that, as a girl, lifting weights would make me “bulky.” But I trusted my coaches, who were proponents of building muscle to enhance performance, and when I saw my swimming and running times getting faster with the addition of weight training, I became a believer, too. I also just felt stronger overall, and to my surprise, weight training actually made me leaner.

In recent years, I haven’t weight trained as much as I did in the past.

When I was in high school I followed the programs my coaches gave me, and they stayed on top of my progress, but it’s different now. These days I tend to get my strength training in almost as an afterthought, like at the tail end of a group exercise class. It’s definitely not the same as carving out time just for weight training. I guess I could blame the fact that I have more adult responsibilities now and less “me time,” but in reality that’s just a cop-out. I know that getting the body I really want (hello, high school abs) takes time, dedication and a major mindset shift. In other words, no more excuses.

This is where someone like Kevin Stamps comes in. He works at Dexter Training Concepts, a one-on-one personal training studio in North Providence, and he’s pretty no-nonsense about excuses. That’s not to say he doesn’t get it - you know, the fact that people are busy, stressed, tired and overworked - but it means that takes his job seriously. And his job is to keep his clients accountable while helping

Now offering Shellac manicures!

La La Luxe Salon

lac

Gift Certificates & Blowout Memberships Now Available

383-3797

139 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence

Call ahead, Walk-in or Book online www.LaLaLuxeSalon.com WE USE PRODUCTS F R O M

$10 Manicures When booked with any hair service!

Offer only good on same day of hair service.

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

37

The MosT InspIrIng Colors For 2013 Let us show you the newest trends.

1107 Reservoir Ave Cranston 943-1155

8190 Post Road North Kingstown 294-6100

603 Kingston Road Wakefield 515-2044

www.TheColorHouse.com 00 Off On Any Gallon of Aura® Interior Paint.

$5.

Retail $63.99 Expires 4/30/13

Now in the Fleur De Lys Building at The Providence Art Club “As I paint in this large studio, I feel honored to have been chosen to be the artist that resides in this historic building. With 15 foot ceilings and a wall of north light, my brush flows across my canvas with confidence and humility. There have only been 5 other artists to paint in this space since its construction in 1880.” — Anthony 7 Thomas Street, Providence, RI

(401) 419-2821 AnthonyTomaselli.com

Open Gallery Nights, by chance or by appointment

Anthony Tomaselli

Now Open On Federal Hill!

Sushi Appetizers & Entrees | Raw Bar | Classic & Nami Rolls | Soup & Salads

visit namiprov.com for our full menu

Federal Hill | 198 Atwells Avenue, Providence • 383-6559 • namiprov.com 38

Providence Monthly | April 2013

City Style |

Shop Talk

By Erin Swanson

Calling All Chic Mamas A chick boutique for both mommy and baby

Join Us

Easter Sunday 10am-5pm Checkout Our Menu Online Reservations Recommended

401.353.7110

www.TheFireNP.com The colorful Chewbeads and Sophie la Giraffe are perfect for your teething little one

Photography: Katie Poor

As a 32-year-old female,

I get invited to a lot (and I mean a lot) of baby showers. While I stick to the registry for the most part, I always add in some unexpected items and personal touches. If you prefer your gifting to be more fab than drab too, Mod Mama is where you need to shop. They stock everything new parents will need to welcome home baby in the most stylish way possible, from convertible strollers to teething rings.

About those teething rings… Mod Mama carries a line called Chewbeads.

Designed to mimic the colorful baubles you’d pick up at a store like J.Crew or Macy’s, mom simply wears the silicon beads on her neck or wrist and lets her teething baby go to town. The non-toxic jewelry is safe for little ones to pull on and chew. Best of all, they can be tossed in the dishwasher along with your bottles and wine glasses.

New parents have lots of dishes to do!

Owners Julie Navarro and Kim Losey truly have an eye for selecting items that will seamlessly blend into your home. They stock 3 Sprouts organic storage bins to help contain clutter and Skip Hop Zoo’s soft weighted owlshaped bookends. There is a wealth of books and toys on hand too. Most of the toys are timeless, such as wooden animals, cars and puzzles, and all en-

courage pretend play. Oh, and don’t worry – they carry the ever-popular Sophie la Girafe teething toy that’s been showing up on everyone’s registry lately.

Speaking of registries, Mod Mama offers the service and will be happy to assist you with creating yours either in-store or online. Out-of-town relatives can shop online, so go ahead and sign up. Your future little girl will definitely need a purple tutu. No little man should be without a Zoocchini hooded shark towel or black baby lounge pants. Of course, you can register for cribs, beddings, car seats and high chairs too; they truly have it all.

I don’t know if it’s my age or the fact that I truly wanted to buy 90% of the items in the store, but my mind did wander to my own “down the road” registry. When that someday comes, I’ll be heading to Mod Mama for sure. I’d like two baby fedora hats and three pirate washcloths, please. After all, “a clean booty is a happy booty.” Just because I’ll be a parent someday, it doesn’t mean I can’t still be me. With a little bit of effort, we can all avoid entering the frightening land of mom jeans and minivans.

10 Davol Square. 273-7800, modmama. com. Mod Mama will be moving in to their new location mid-April. Check their website for more details.

1874 Mineral Spring, North Providence facebook.com/atwellsrestaurantgroup @atwellsgroup

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

39

(401) 289-2102 Tues - Sat, 10 to 5 Sunday, 12 to 4

384 Market Street Warren, RI 02885 farmsteadri.com

City Style |

Beauty

by Grace Lentini

Save $5 with this ad.* Farmstead is a country shop with a twist with two floors of shopping; antiques, furniture, candles, gifts, garden, original art, & more!

Now featuring Dave’s Coffee and Farmaesthetics® fine herbal skincare. *Expires May 15, 2012. Must spend $25 or more.

Excludes non-participating dealers. Promo Code PROMO1304 Limit one per customer. © 2012 Farmstead Mercantile LLC

Beauty Streak

Balayage comes to Providence

Exclusive

Samuel Dong

CoaTS Direct from the Designer at a fraction of the cost. many Colors and Sizes

Upscale Consignments

231-5900

The Midweek Great Depression

4

$

Appetizers & Drinks

Weds. and Thurs. 5-8PM Not to be combined with other offers, discounts, gift certificates or promotions

566 South Main St, Providence • 649-4667 info@vanityri.com • vanityri.com CoMPliMentary valet Parking

Contact Valerie Houshar for more information: (401) 654-5259 vhoushar@hallkeen.com

The Right Choice for Assisted Living on The East Side

pen

O Now

‘Reflections’ Dementia and Memory Care Apartments Are Also Now Available

Unmatched in Services, Location and Value

101 Highland Avenue | Providence, Rhode Island 02906 | (401) 654-5259 For a virtual tour, photos, and more information, visit us at www.HighlandsRI.com

40

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Finally, winter is slowly but surely leaving its chill behind. The days are getting longer, warmer, and days by the beach are weeks away.

Personally, I cannot wait to be kissed by that summer sun, and lucky for me, I don’t have to. Every summer, I spend a lot of time in the sun, and my hair reacts by getting natural highlights. I’m a brunette, and I do love my tiny blonde streaks. But this summer I will be spending a considerable amount of time indoors, and I still need to get my sunshine fix.

I’ve never been one for extreme hair coloring or bold changes, but I am down for some light highlights. Enter balayage, a freehand highlighting technique meant to be low maintenance, multi-dimensional and to give a sun kissed look. Perfect.

It all started with a consultation.

I’m sitting in a comfy chair in a building that used to be an art gallery. I’m a sucker for repurposed buildings and Studio 101 is no exception. The chic interior of exposed brickwork, floor to ceiling framed mirrors and hardwood floors makes me feel like I will soon become a work of art myself. I talk with Jason Dolan. He owns the salon and “splits” his time between here and New York City. By split, I mean that he is here every other Tuesday, and I was lucky to get in. During the consultation we review the basics: what am I looking for, what am I not

looking for? Then we start.

My hair happens to be straight that day (normally I wear it curly), and Jason is surveying his canvas, my hair.

He takes a few moments, looking at it from different angles and gets an idea of how it naturally falls. Then he mixes up the solution and starts. He takes small sections and lightly brushes it as he works his way down the strands. As he gets closer to the bottom, he rests the section on a small paddle where he is able to apply more pressure and cover the bottom of the section more intensely, the idea being that the ends will have a more sun kissed look.

It takes more time to do it this way, but the results are so worth it. After the selected sections have been painted and lightly wrapped in cellophane, I am put under a heat lamp to activate the process, then it is washed out and my hair blown out. Even the blowout was topnotch. My hair is very thick, coarse and curly. Usually it necessitates both a blow dry followed by a flat iron. Oh no, not here. My hair was blown out and straightened in one fell swoop. Not only was my hair silky and smooth, but as I turned my head from side to side, I caught the flashes of sun kissed hair. They look so natural and I know that as the summer goes along, I can get even more to add sunshine to my locks.

Studio 101, 101 Orange Street. 8086777, studio101ri.com.

Illustration: Caleigh McGrath

9 Cedar Swamp Road, Smithfield Tues/Wed/Fri 11-6, Thurs 11-7, Sat 10-4

Now offering an

“Early Dining Special” 4 -6 pm, Sunday thru Friday

3 courses $22 per person or $59 for 2 with a bottle of wine

Visit us at trattoriazooma.com for our full menu Winner Editor’s Choice “Best Pasta”

245 Atwells Ave. Providence, RI 401.383.2002 trattoriazooma.com

Stop Suffering!

Headaches Migraines TMJ/TMD Jaw Pain

Welcome To Rhode Island's Institute Trained Neuromuscular Dental Medicine Office

Here at Dental 1, Dr. Gregg Melfi, we are an LVI Institute Trained Neuromuscular Dental Office, offering the latest in Dental Migraine, TMJ/TMD, Sleep Disorder, Dental Bite Problem, and Sports Dentistry.

• Exclusive K7 Muscle/Jaw Tracking, T Scan, and LLLT Laser Technology.

• More Predictable Cosmetic Dentistry Results, with Less Breakage.

• We Relax Muscles and Relieve Pain at the Bite Cause. No Drugs. No Botox Injections.

• Offering General, Esthetic, Implant, Sedation, Invisalign, and Cerec 3D Dental Care.

• We "Balance Your Bite" and Prove Our Results.

No Pain, Needles, or Invasive Dentistry.

• Exclusive AgilityGuard Provider, the

• Often Covered By Medical Insurance.

mouthguard that uses NM Dentistry to give you the competitive advantage!

Ear Pain Vertigo TMJ Popping Hard To Open Jaw

Call For Your Complimentary Initial Consultation

401-253-9500 Enhancing Lives One Smile At A Time…

Rhode Island's leadIng neuRomusculaR/spoRts dentIstRy offIce 576 Metacom Ave, Bristol • www.dental1ri.com www.agilityguard.com April 2013 | Providence Monthly

41

Feast

IN THE KITCHEN / oN THE mENu / bEHINd THE bAr / rEvIEw / IN THE drINK

Photography: Tiffany Medrano

48

REVIEW Blackieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bulldog Tavern

Apple cider salmon with roasted root vegetables

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

43

A TUCKED AWAY RETREAT in the capital city Serving hearty seasonal fare with an emphasis on local ingredients

888.552.7822 44

Providence Monthly | April 2013

S ar a Z arel la P hotogr aphy

Feast |

In the Kitchen

By Stephanie Obodda

Reinventing the Taco

Combining LA street food and French cuisine

Online destination for local

DEALS, EVENTS, GIVEAWAYS for the Rhody Mom!

facebook.com/RhodyMamas Peter Gobin in the mijos truck

Peter Gobin owns Mijos Tacos.

He learned how to cook through his jobs (Al Forno, New Rivers, Seven Stars). He moved to California because he wanted to cook more French food. After working in Los Angeles in French fine dining for six years he returned to Rhode Island to be near family and start his own food truck.

Photography: Mike Braca

How did you decide to start a taco truck?

When I was in LA, I’d always eat tacos from the trucks after work. Back in Rhode Island, I really missed them. I started making tacos for friends at my house, and they’d never had that style of taco. They were tired of coming all the way to my house in northern Rhode Island, so my friends and family became my first investors – on a truck, I could come to them.

It seems like there’s a good community of food trucks around here…

I’m close with some of the other trucks, like Rocket, Flour Girls, Mama Kim’s.

You’d think we’d always be in competition, but we find that when more of us park in a small area, we create a destination and we all do better business.

What sets LA style tacos apart from the rest?

People always ask me this. For me it’s the salsa, and it’s important that they come from a truck. In northern Mexico and LA, they’re usually served with radishes.

What’s your personal twist on the taco?

I take a lot of liberties with the taco format. Since I’m used to cooking French food, some of what I make is French food disguised as Mexican.

I’ve found that tacos are a great vehicle for exposing people to unusual foods that could be scary in a way that’s comforting to them. A taco is not imposing. For example, I started out with beef tongue – that was unusual for people, but it’s becoming an incredibly popular item. I’ve also done sweetbreads, foie gras, cow and pig liver, feet… even crickets and cuitlacoche, a corn fungus that’s a delicacy.

Where do you stand on the corn/flour tortilla divide?

I use flour tortillas for my burritos and quesadillas, but my tacos are all served on corn tortillas like in LA. I get my corn tortillas from a market on the West Side of Providence.

Do you miss fine dining?

Not really, though sometimes I like to make a three – or four – course dinner for friends at home. It’s not necessarily

easier to make tacos, just different –I actually use a lot of the same techniques, like braising or making classic sauces like mayonnaise. It’s been hard to find staff who have the right combination of skills for Mijos – you almost have to be a fine dining cook who wants to do short order.

Since you’re always on the move, what’s the best way to find you?

Depending on the day, we do lunches

by Brown University, Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket, and Kennedy Plaza.

We serve dinner every second Thursday at the Promenade, and do late nights at Brown on the weekends.

If you want to know where to find me and see what’s on the menu, follow the truck on Twitter at twitter.com/MijosTacos. Twitter’s also a great way to interact with me…I have plenty of conversations with customers and other food trucks and chefs, so you can get a feel for the person inside the truck.

Feeling creative?

Write for Providence Media.

Send your resume and sample work to: thebay@thebaymagazine.com

Providence Monthly | East Side Monthly SO Rhode Island | The Bay

mijos Tacos @MijosTacos 752-9942

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

45

Feast |

on the menu

By John Taraborelli

business association presents

Barrington Blooms April 20-27

Tour the town and vote for the best decorated storefront Cast your vote /Barrington Business Association

Blooms Bubbles and Bistro April 25 6-8pm

Food from local restaurants Win a Prize in the Raffle

Tickets are $25 Held at Grapes and Grains RSVP to 24 Bosworth Street Barrington• 245-2100 Proceeds support the BBA’s efforts to beautify the town encouraging new business and promoting Barrington as a destination

46

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Hog Wild A family food business doubles down on rhode Island If you’re like me, then you’ve probably seen the Daniele Foods label in your local deli case countless times, but never realized that it’s locally made. The company has been family owned and operated for three generations. It has roots in Italy, where the grandfather of current owners Stefano and Davide Dukcevich began selling sausage their grandmother made in her kitchen. The original product was a paprika-spiced salami with its roots in Croatia, from whence the family migrated to Italy. Stefano and Davide’s father came to America in 1976 and established Daniele, Inc in Pascoag.

Now the president and sales manager respectively, the two brothers continue to produce Italian-style sausages and charcuterie out of the same plant in which they played hide-and-seek as kids… for now.

While the original Daniele factory remains a beloved site within their family, it was built and added on to several times over several decades, and as a result can no longer efficiently manage their production. (It does, however, manage to house a quarter of a million individual legs of prosciutto. Seriously, have you ever seen that much prosciutto in person? I can assure you it’s awe-inspiring.) After courting offers to foot the bill for a new plant from states like Virginia and Texas, the Dukcevich brothers decided to break ground on a $50-60 million state-of-the-art facility right down the street from their current home. “We did a lot of soul searching,” says Davide. “Do we want to invest this much?

It’s scary because we’re a family – we’re not a multinational corporation.”

With the new plant set to come

online sometime in mid-2014, the brothers decided to double down on their commitment to Rhode Island.

Hence, their new line of artisanal, locally made charcuterie to complement their conventional line. While the brothers are proud of those products, and they are processed here in Rhode Island, they’re made on a large scale using pork sourced from farmers in places like Iowa and the Midwest. This new venture is a small batch product, made only with pigs from New England farmers. “The new line is less than one percent of the total business,” explains Davide. “But it’s the most exciting.” Stefano adds, “It’s nice to keep that slow pace and have products people really want. We don’t want it to be mass-produced. We want it to be really focused and special.”

To close the loop on their local line, the Dukceviches reached out to RISD students to design the packaging, and asked chefs at Johnson & Wales to devise recipes using the new products, which are featured on the Daniele website. “There’s a bridge between food, art and design,” Davide notes. They will also be sold locally through Farm Fresh RI and Dave’s Market, and are available at restaurants like Farmstead and Avenue N. The line currently includes sopressata, mortadella, pancetta, capocollo, salame Milano, chorizo and, of course, prosciutto. These are made the right way – the old way – and Davide points out with a mixture of pride and amusement that once every few months the plant is visited by some octogenarian gentlemen from Italy that he calls “the prosciutto Jedi,” who monitor Daniele’s

processes and quality.

With a renewed commitment to Rhode Island, the Dukcevich family is bullish on the prospects for our ailing local economy. “So many people complain that it sucks here,” notes Davide. “Why? Let’s do something about it. We’re really proud to be here and celebrate it.”

A BIG WEEKEND FOR EATING LOCAL Speaking of Daniele, they, along with your favorite local magazine (you know we’re talking about us, right?), are sponsoring this month’s EatDrinkRI Festival. The three-day event (April 19-21) is the brainchild of local foodies David Dadekian, who runs the website EatDrinkRI and is the restaurant reviewer for our sister magazine, The Bay, and Brendan Roane, Director of Marketing and Events at Gracie’s.

The entire weekend will be a celebration of local food and drink. Key events include Friday night’s Cocktail Couture, an exclusive cocktail and fashion event produced in concert with StyleWeek Northeast at the Biltmore; the Saturday night Grand Tasting (also at the Biltmore), featuring over 40 food, wine, beer and spirit exhibitors, as well as cooking demonstrations from chefs like The Dorrance’s Ben Sukle and Persimmon’s Champe Speidel; and a Sunday morning Grand Brunch at Gracie’s, featuring chefs from Nicks on Broadway and north on the West Side, Warren’s The Sunnyside, the Boat House in Tiverton, and more. Tickets range in price per event, or you can attend the whole festival, including several smaller events and panel discussions, for $200 (standard) or $250 (VIP). Find more info at festival.eatdrinkri.com.

19 Sanderson Road !"#$%&'()*+,-++./012.21.3.2

19 Sanderson Road !"#$%&'()*+,-++./012.21.3.2

PONO by joan goodman

19 Sanderson Road !"#$%&'()*+,-++./012.21.3.2

19 Sanderson Road !"#$%&'()*+,-++./012.21.3.2

19 Sanderson Road Smithfield, RI 401.949.4849

19 Sanderson Road Smithfield, RI 401.949.4849

Facebook.com/flauntri

Facebook.com/flauntri

Be Sure To EAT D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S-L-Y

for more info visit juliansprovidence.com

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

47

Feast |

review

By Linda Beaulieu

Dropkicked with Flavor

A Providence chef takes her skills to the suburbs That was our reaction when we pulled into the parking lot at this suburban restaurant on a recent weeknight. We were lucky to find a spot and hurried in, figuring we would have to wait at least an hour for a table with this kind of crowd. Fortunately, our friends were already there and seated. It was noisy, but in a good way, mostly because of the happy afterwork crowds having lots of laughs as they grazed on creative food.

Blackie’s Bulldog Tavern in Smithfield could easily be just a sports bar, or a college hangout with Bryant University just down the street. Everywhere you look, there are flat-screen TVs tuned into major sporting events, yet they do not overwhelm the dining area. This is one of those restaurants where everything works, from the friendly service to the outstanding food to the happening bar scene. And they get a big thumbs up for offering really good folk-rock music starting on the early side at 6:30pm.

When the four of us dine out, we have one rule – everyone has to order something different. We also like to try new things, which is so easy to do at Blackie’s. Not surprising since the award-winning chef is Angie Armenise, who made her mark at Waterplace in Providence before moving to the ‘burbs a couple of years ago. Her menu is big, and the flavors are bold.

With so many tempting dishes, it took

Photography: Tiffany Medrano

Yikes!

us a while to get it all figured out. Our waiter, Kyle, provided us with drinks as we mapped out our dinner plan, starting with two terrific appetizers. Pretzels & Cheesy ($8.99) consisted of three oversized, warm, buttery soft pretzels served with a crock of gooey jalapeno beer dip. The four of us quickly divided up and consumed the plump pretzels lathered with plenty of that creamy dip. Then it was on to the Buffalo Chicken Dip ($9.99). This is one of those wonderful appetizers that you just have to get the recipe for: pulled buffalo chicken breast meat is mixed with cream cheese and blue cheese, then baked until gooey and bubbly.

But we were just getting warmed up.

Next we ordered two dishes that we all would get to taste. From the Cheeseology section of the menu, we tried The Tuscan ($8.99), a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich starring fig jam, prosciutto, provolone and Gorgonzola on toasted bread. There are eight variations on this theme including classic combinations from The Sicilian to The Gobbler – you can just imagine those ingredients. Our waiter recommended The Orchard, with its layers of sharp cheddar, crisp apple, smoked bacon, red onion marmalade and a brown sugar-maple drizzle.

Similar imaginative possibilities can be found with the burgers ($10.99 to $15.99). You can create your own with dozens of toppings, cheeses and sauces for your consideration. Or you can

Hand-pressed burger with hot chili mayo, bacon and onion rings

48

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Edamame hummus with seared tuna and Asian pesto

try the Apple Pie Burger with brown sugar-maple mayo on a soft pretzel roll, or the Late Night Chef Burger, topped with peanut butter, grape jelly, barbecue sauce, sharp cheddar, bacon, lettuce, tomato, red onion and kosher pickle chips, all in a toasted bulkie roll.

Our second dish “for the table” was the Carbonara Mac & Cheese ($14.99), an absolute must for pasta lovers. How could we not order a dish with this description: Grilled and chopped chicken breast tossed in a roasted garlic cream sauce with sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon and fresh peas baked casserole style with cavatappi pasta and finished with a buttery potato chip crust. An audacious spin on the classic carbonara, but nonetheless a dish I would order again and again.

After all this truly exciting food, could our entrees ($11.99 to $18.99) possibly be as thrilling? Yes and no.

With our taste buds on sensory overload, it was hard to be dazzled by Baby Cheddar and Mushroom Meatloaf, Fish and Chips, Simply Grilled Ribeye and Apple Cider Salmon.

The meatloaf was a surprise in its presentation (more like a big fat burger, not the usual slab of meat), and we could not detect the promised sharp cheddar, mushrooms and caramelized onions, but Brian did like the garlic mashed potatoes.

The ribeye was most appreciated, especially for its tenderness and shallot-cabernet-butter topping. As for the

salmon, I loved it, generously brushed with apple cider glaze and served over more roasted root vegetables than I could ever eat. It was topped with crispy onion strings, and I ate every single one.

Just when we thought it was time to leave, we heard about an extraordinary dessert we could share – five deep-fried pastry balls of carrot cake ($7.99), accompanied by cinnamon ice cream, flavored whipped cream and whipped cream cheese.

Providence lost a remarkable chef when Angie Arminese moved to the suburbs. But Smithfield isn’t very far from Providence, about 20 minutes north of the city and easy to find. So do yourself a favor and take a ride out to Blackie’s Bulldog Tavern.

Linda Beaulieu is the author of The Providence and Rhode Island Cookbook, Second Edition, available at stores throughout the state. Follow Linda on Twitter @LindaBeaulieu3.

blackie’s bulldog Tavern 181 George Washington Hwy Smithfield 231-4777 blackiesbulldogtavern.com

What to do with your curls?

Let us help!

Full Gluten Free Selection

Hair by racquel

Catering Words for all occassions can’t express, see for yourse e m lf! co

vis-á-vis hair design 377 Broadway • Providence, RI • 401.421.0123

visavishairdesign.com Appointments helpful but not always necessary

A New Season.

A New Lifestyle.

Look for our New Spring Menu!

Private upstairs lounge available for functions

181 George Washington Highway • Route 116 • Smithfield blackiesbulldogtavern.com • 231-4777

Join Jo oin us View complete list of events at www.ric.edu/pfa

Sunday, April 14 2 : 3 0 P. M . | SAPINSLEY HALL IN THE NAZARIAN CENTER

Did the senior in your life spend the winter months cooped up?

Was your free time spent cooking, cleaning or doing home maintenance for them?

Spring is the perfect time for an enriching, new lifestyle!

Assisted Living on Blackstone Boulevard

353 Blackstone Blvd. • Providence, RI

401-273-6565

www.EPOCHBlackstoneAL.com

Assisted Living on the East Side

One Butler Ave. • Providence, RI

401-275-0682

www.EPOCHEastSide.com

(Mass Relay - 711)

Assisted Living . Memory Care . Respite . Fitness Center

Pianist Ann Schein T I C K E T S W W W. R I C . E D U / P F A O R ( 4 0 1 ) 4 5 6 - 8 1 4 4 www.facebook.com/PerformingArtsSeries.RIC

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

49

Luxury

This is where

FITNESS

MEETS

Our Garden l be City store wil first closed for the ril 3 weeks in Ap oes g while it under a makeover.

REGENCY PLAZA A P A R T M E N T S lisa@bodysoultraining.com

401.714.7324

Success starts from within.

regencyplaza.com

401.861.6900

Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it time you settled for more?

OPEN HOUSE at Regency Plaza Fitness Center Three Regency Plaza, Providence RI 02903

* Raffle * Refreshments * Free 10 min Reiki Session * Free Class Demos *

T H U R S D A Y , A P R I L 4 TH 6:00am - 7:30pm

Go to BodySoulTraining.com for details and schedule of events. Free parking onsite.

50

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Please visit our Wakefield store at 21 Charles Street Order online at www.sweenorschocolates.com or call 401-783-4433 â&#x20AC;˘ 800-834-3123 to have your favorite chocolates shipped to you.

For updates on construction and free giveaways all through April visit our Facebook page.

Feast |

behind the bar

Introducing

By Cristy Raposo

the hot shave…

And other fine services

Mixing Up Fun

Jay Carr on craft cocktail culture in Providence a gentleman’s barber shop 91 Hope street Providence, RI 02906 (401) 400-5500 chez-moustache.com

Summer Camps

Rock & Roll

Theatre Art 50 Rolfe Sq. Cranston 401.490.9475

www.artists-exchange.org

Jay Carr behind the bar at The Eddy Subhead 3

Tell me about The Eddy.

We wanted to bring all the drinks, beer, wine and bar snacks to the city in a way that they have not been done before.

The cocktails we create here are difficult to make if you don’t have everything within reach; that’s why we have a small u-shaped bar. It’s a small bar that lends itself to more personal service.

Photography: Mike Braca

What’s the cocktail world like here?

Interpretations of classics, improvements on classics and classic cocktails. I do things like barrel aging. I really try to bring the basic classic cocktail so people have some sort of foundation. I want guests to have one of these and say, “That’s cool. Where is it from?” I’m slowly going to bring in my own variations of cocktails other than ones I have found.

The cocktail menu offers ”bartender’s choice – you’re in good hands” for $12.

What is that?

It’s a quick consultation on what you like to drink. I try to tailor a cocktail or give you a cocktail that I think you’ll enjoy based on your specification. It’s the priciest because it takes the most time to do, but it’s the most popular.

Which craft cocktail is fun to create?

I love to make a Vieux Carré, which means “old square” in French. It’s a classic

New Orleans cocktail made with Rye Whiskey, Cognac, Bénédictine, Sweet Vermouth, Peychaud’s Bitters and Angostura Bitters with a lemon peel.

What is The Eddy’s mission?

I want people to have a drink that has a flavor profile; one they sip and then think about. I like the idea of bringing community to the bars. In the old days, mail from your family overseas would be sent to the local town bar. I want people hanging out for better or worse where bartenders don’t just make drinks – they interact.

How did you end up co-owningThe Eddy?

I spent a lot of time working for other people. I got to the point where I was confident how to do it and knew enough about what people want. I traveled to different cities and researched other bars. A friend told me she had a friend who had a friend who had a friend who wanted to be a silent partner in a bar.

Steve Durkee had always wanted to open a bar here in his building to help revitalize the city. Introductions were made and here we are. Being an architect, the space is Steve’s vision; the menu is mine.

What can guests snack on?

Everything is good. Chef John Dilly of

the Garden Grill helped me develop the menu. It’s simple, quality food made from local products when possible.

The fresh, local mozzarella and piquillo sandwich with house made basil pesto is simple but amazing.

We Buy, Sell & Trade New + Used Commercial Restaurant Equipment Custom Metal Fabrication Exhaust Hood Design & Installation From ranges to smallwares, we have it all!

What’s a good introductory craft cocktail that you’d recommend?

An Old Fashioned; sugar, water, bitters, whiskey and lemon peel. It’s the definition of a cocktail. When made correctly, each ingredient starts to sings. It’s a really smooth, simple drink.

Who frequents The Eddy?

It varies in age and demographic. It’s completely different all the time. The Eddy attracts people who are looking for something different and have a certain inclination toward good stuff.

They’re people like me who want to go somewhere where you can talk to the bartender, get a really good drink and talk to other people.

The Eddy 95 Eddy Street 831-3339 eddybar.com

221 Admiral Street Providence, RI • 421-7030 (open to the public)

ADESSO On The Hill

Signature Menu, Impeccable Service, Better than Ever!

139 Acorn Street Providence’s Federal Hill 521-0770 April 2013 | Providence Monthly

51

Feast |

In the drink

By Emily Dietsch

Not Just For Girls

A cute bottle does not equal wimpy wine Never underestimate the Southern capacity for drink. I

Tomasso Auto Swedish Motors

Celebrating 44 Years

We service and repair ALL foreign and domestic models Toyota • Kia • Nissan • Chrysler Audi • Lexus • Infinity • Ford Volkswagen • Honda • BMW Chevy • Isuzu • Mercedes • Mini Prosche • Ford • General Motors Mazda • Saab • Volvo • Hyundai Saturn • Subaru • Mitsubishi

ASE Certified RI inspection and repair station #27b

401-723-1111 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

729 East Avenue

Top of the East Side, next door to Rite Aid

52

Providence Monthly | April 2013

These new wines are a partnership between local artist Lolita Healy and Gasbarro’s wines

collectively hammered, and rather jarringly so for a group of practiced drinkers. I grabbed one bottle, the “Ravishing Red,” and squinted hard at the label. 14.5% alcohol. To convey how uncommonly strong that is, it’s on par with the percentage in alcohol-bomb cab-savs preferred by biggutted, cigar-chomping fellas. Life lessons present themselves, here: One, don’t assume cute equals weak. Two, always nosh on something before hitting the sauce.

Brawn was no accident on Lolita’s part, since cross-gender appeal was part of her goal from square one. Although she began with a desire to help foster female bonding - and, really, what’s better for bonding than shared drinks? Lolita has also tried to resist gender stereotypes in surprising ways. Her wines are hardly what we imagine our mothers pass around.

But the broader goal was to create wines that are, as Lolita says, “objectively good.” In other words, wines that can stand alone or pair with food, and that are fun conversation pieces in and of themselves.

After building a following with glassware and other designs, now sold in 8,000 stores internationally, Lolita first considered entering the wine business when it became her fans’ top request. Yes, fans. Lolita is the kind of person who draws them, functioning not just as a designer or

business owner but also a brand avatar. This likely clashes with the outlook that most vintners and connoisseurs share, which views wines rather than winemakers as celebrities. Lolita’s chutzpah would likely vex that crowd further still: How could somebody just decide to make wine, tout suite, and yield anything respectable? Even powerhouse winemakers struggle.

To her credit, Lolita appears to make no time for neuroses and equivocation. Instead, she assesses, decides and acts in short order, and her path to date shows no folly in doing so. For her wine venture, she partnered with Federal Hill’s well-respected Gasbarro’s Wines to glean industry expertise, as well as with what she terms a “boutique” producer on the Italian boot’s heel for her grapes and vintages. After the success of the first three wines, her initial offering is poised for national release outside New England, and more varieties are in the works.

Conventional she’s not by winemaking standards, but those who might pinch their noses ought to un-pinch them and have a glass. Or, as another plucky Southern gal by the name of Dolly Parton once said, “Get down off the cross, honey. Somebody else needs the wood.”

Wines by Lolita are now available nationally through Gasbarros.com and will begin rolling out with distribution in stores throughout New England.

photography: Layheang Meas

20% Off All ServiceS

learned this lesson on road-trip stop somewhere between Georgia and Deliverance, inside a truck stop station. My jaw hit the floor when I saw Wild Turkey and Budweiser shoved in alongside gummy candies and two liters of Fanta, having expected uptight, labyrinthine liquor ordinances below the Mason-Dixon. The cashier rolled his eyes and crossed his arms.

“Honey, honey, HON-ey,” he drawled, adding a syllable and a half to every word. “The Pope don’t recognize fornicators, and Baptists don’t recognize each other at the liquor store.”

In translation, “polite on paper, and sauced on the side.” Sounds a bit like Rhode Island, which still bears the marks of Puritanism and the temperance movement’s so-called blue laws, yet rates among the booziest states in the nation. Bars are as plentiful here as the barflies are thirsty, and liquor stores do ripping business within their limited hours. Nice to know that more than I-95 unites North and South, one supposes.

Lolita Healy, a Reese Witherspoon look-alike and Atlanta native, is certainly capitalizing on that common ground. After relocating to the area for love and marriage, Healy fell hard for Providence’s creative scene, and chose to situate her design company within city limits. What began in 2004 with a Sex and the City-inspired foray into hyper-femme, cheeky barware recently culminated in wines with a similar spirit, and the response has been enthusiastic - if a little slurred, too.

Armed with a bottle each of Lolita’s red, white and sparkling rosé, I invited friends for a tasting, otherwise known as “Tuesday night with an 80% chance of morning-after hangover.” (85-90%, if we’re being honest.) Now, as a barely-reformed tomboy more familiar with Band-Aid-clad knees and tangled hair than the well-coiffed, small-waisted forms on Lolita’s bottles, I underestimated the wines’ punch. All of us did, opting out of the usual sobrietysaving tricks like canapés or that thing called “moderation.”

About an hour in, we found ourselves

Aspire

Clover

Civil

Ellie's

Hotel Providence

Gourmet Heaven

Eno

Local 121

Westminster Lofts

Tazza Caffe

Homestyle

Gracie's

Small Point Cafe

Salon Bar

Eddy Bar

Noon Designs

Modern Love

Queen of Hearts

Symposium Books

craftland

Providence Optical

Sura

Gracie's

zipcar

Wharf

Family owned and operated For over 50 yearS RS

G

IN

TO

S VE

D EN

P

IN

121 Butler Avenue Perfect for investors!

Great rental history with this 3 unit multi-family home right on the bus line a walking distance to all conveniences. Recently updated with new fire code alarm system and plenty of off-street parking. $325,000 Aleen Weiss

G

IN

D EN

72 mAnning Street Truly spectacular in every sense of the word! Live in luxury in this two bed two and a half bath condo. Nothing left to do but move in! Beautiful architectural details surround you from the kitchen, baths, lighting and detailed moldings. Amazing! $549,500 Aleen Weiss

P

30 BlAckStone BlvD, #301 Luxury Living.

Outstanding, spacious penthouse unit, MOVE IN CONDITION, steps from Beautiful Blackstone Blvd and Wayland Sq..2 large beds, including master suite, cozy den with built-ins, granite kitchen, ELEVATOR access. Heated underground parking. $395,000 Aleen Weiss

ED

S VE

IN

415 Angell Street Totally rebuilt condo in 2005! Pristine! Location! Seconds from Wayland Sq, Brown University, RISD, Hospitals and Downtown.

Modern, spacious, sunny 1st floor unit featuring hardwood floors, granite counters, stainless appliances and so much more including special HEPA air/heat system in place. Incredible! $215,000 Aleen Weiss

SO

SO

89 ninth Street The house with the wishing well, make your dreams come true! Adorable, spacious three bedroom, one and half bath ranch style home with working fireplace, spacious kitchen and family room, plus a partially finished basement. Perfectly located right across from the Ninth Street Playground.

Why rent when you can own?! $199,000 Aleen Weiss

125 Butler Avenue Spacious legal 3 family building close to all conveniences.

Investors take notice! Recently updated with new fire code alarm system, plenty of parking and very nice large units drawing tops rents. $375,000 Aleen Weiss

LD

LD

UC

D RE

RS

TO

D

L SO

112 114 elmgrove Avenue Perfect opportunity for owner occupied! Everything done..updated electrical, roof, siding, windows, fire system! Large units, cooks kitchens, double parlors! Period charm, great location and rental history. Walk to Wayland Square and Boulevard. $510,000 Aleen Weiss

96 eDgehill roAD Sweet three bedroom single family home within walking distance to Hope Stree.

Features beautiful oak hardwood floors throughout, one and a half bathrooms, large living area with working fireplace, dining room and separate den/ office with sliders to a back yard. Also includes a one car garage and full basement. $209,000 Karen Miller

Assisting Buyers, sellers And renters Aleen WeissH Jon WeissHF Karen MillerH Claire Sennott HAlso licensed in MA

Howard Weiss Lauren Sickel

FLicensed RI Environmental Lead Inspector 0065

785 Hope Street, providence, ri â&#x20AC;˘ 401-272-6161 â&#x20AC;˘ SpitzweiSS.com

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

53

Come see what the buzz is about!

Kataifi wrapped sea scallops

Mile & A Quarter Sophisticated dining on the riverfront 375 South Main Street, Providence â&#x20AC;˘ 401-331-1500

An EvEning with

Anthony BourdAin

Eric ripErt

Good Vs. Evil For use against a white or light background

thursday, May 2 at 7:30p For use against a black or dark background

By phone: (401) 421-ArtS (2787) online: www.ppacri.org www.GoodvsEvilTour.com

54

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Feast |

dining Guide

special advertising section

Indian restaurant features dinner everyday and a buffet lunch on weekends. Try the specialty Bombay Mix Grill with an assortment of kebobs on a sizzling plate. LD $$-$$$ BRAVO BRASSERIE 123 Empire St.; 490-5112. Enjoy lunch and dinner at this American bistro with a French flair. Located downtown across from Trinity Rep, it’s the perfect place for a pre-theater dinner or cocktail after the show. LD $$-$$$

The Café at Easy Entertaining 166 Valley Street, Building 10; 437-6090. This farm to fork café epitomizes local cuisine. From their Signature Egg Sandwich with a Foremost Bakery everything pretzel and Baffoni Farm fresh egg and Vermont cheddar, to their Italian Stallion Panini with Danielle Spicy Soperssata, Foremost Bakery Pan Au Lait, Narragansett Creamery Atwells Gold and Chef Ashley’s onion jam and roasted red pepper aioli, this café delivers the flavor. BL $

Providence 10 PRIME STEAK & SUSHI 55 Pine St.; 453-2333. Located downtown, 10 offers a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere, complemented by aged prime steaks, a full sushi menu and creative cocktails. LD $$-$$$

Photography: Tiffany Medrano

ADESSO ON THE HILL 139 Acorn Street; 521-0770. The popular Adesso is back, in a new location. Come in for an elegant Italian dining experience; try a brick oven pizza cooked in the open air kitchen. D $$-$$$ ANDREAS 268 Thayer St.; 331-7879.

For a taste of Greece, head to Andreas. Their menu includes souvlaki, moussaka and a variety of kabobs, along with specialties like Lemon Oregano Lamb Chops and Spanakopita, an appetizer of spinach and feta in flaky phyllo dough. BrLD $-$$ ASPIRE RESTAURANT 311 Westminster St.; 521-3333. Aspire offers an exquisite fine dining experience with

Key

a number of delicious small and large plates, numerous fine wines and a full bar – with an emphasis on local ingredients. BBrLD $-$$$ BAKER STREET RUE 75 Baker St.; 490-5025. The Rue De L’Espoir empire expands with this comfortable neighborhood café serving “upscale diner food” with an emphasis on local ingredients. BBrL $ BETTER BURGER COMPANY 217 Thayer St.; 228-7373. With angus beef burgers that are juicy and tasty, this casual spot is a no-brainer for anyone looking for a quick, delicious and affordable meal. Serving wholesome veggie, falafel and salmon burgers too. LD $ BLUE COTTAGE 748 Hope St.; 3837307. Enjoy a bed and breakfast style morning meal or deli sandwich at this cozy diner. It’s a good breakfast at a fair price in a family friendly setting.

Daily specials BBR $ BOMBAY CLUB 145 Dean St.; 2736363. Located on Federal Hill, this

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

Fresh Local & Healthy Luncheon Catering

Delivered

CAFé PARAGON 234 Thayer St.; 3316200. This hip eatery serves sandwiches, pasta and entrees at prices lower than the chic décor would have you believe. The adjoining Viva lounge is perfect for after-dinner drinks and private parties. BrLD $-$$ CASERTA’S PIZZERIA 121 Spruce St.; 621-9190. This Rhode Island tradition serves big pizzas with generous toppings and thick, rich tomato sauce.

Their famous Wimpy Skippy, a spinach pie with cheese and pepperoni, is not to be missed. LD $-$$ CAV 14 Imperial Pl.; 751-9164. The New York Times’ choice as one of Providence’s five best restaurants, CAV’s contemporary award-winning cuisine is available for lunch and dinner daily.

They also feature Saturday/Sunday brunch. BrLD $$-$$$ DOK’S DELI 146 Ives St, 369-7633.

Providence’s only New York-style deli lives up to a high gastronomic standard by using fresh, local ingredients and house-smoked meats.

Try the Roadhouse, with housecured pastrami, corned beef, bacon and “Swayze sauce,” in homage to the man himself. Meats, sides and house-made pickles all sold retail, too. LD $ DON JOSE TEQUILAS 351 Atwells Ave.; 454-8951. Don Jose’s digs a little deeper than your average Mexican restaurant, with all the basics you love alongside more artfully composed entrees and a wonderful selection of house-made tequilas. LD $$ THE DORRANCE 60 Dorrance St.; 5216000. The Dorrance, a 2012 James Beard Foundation award semi-finalist (best new restaurant and chef), is known for its impressive architecture, hand-crafted cocktails and delicious

282-OSSC (6772) www.sandwichri.com Like us on Facebook for our daily specials

Spring is coming... layers are coming off...

What have you got underneath?

Get your Abs On Pilates, Personal Training & TRX Classes at the

Mind 2 Body Fit Studio on Providence’s West Side

www.mind2bodyfit.com 774-406-8222 The Plant, 60 Valley Street Providence, RI

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

55

We Make the Food that Makes Your Event

Feast | cozycaterers.com • 351-3111

Upscale Authentic Mexican Cuisine on Federal Hill Mon-Thurs

3 Course Dinner Special only $19.95 Serving Brunch

Sat & Sun 10:30am to 2:30pm

Margaritas &Margaritas Sangria & Sangria Over 70 Premium Tequilas!

Excellent Selection of •Tequilas 351 Atwells Ave. Providence 454-8951 donjosetequilas.com 351 Atwells Ave. Providence 454-8951 • www.donjosetequilas.com we’ve been busy cooking up some great new stuff! come see our brand new dining room! robert irvine has nothing on us. same great food, with an updated look

Rue De L’Espoir American Bistro Cooking

99 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906 • 401-751-8890 open daily breakfast, lunch, dinner www.therue.com

Logo and Web Design by Rouge-Gorge Studio

It’s time for your Spring Cleaning

Dr. Arthur Mansolillo F Dr. Joseph Mansolillo Dr. Jeffrey Mansolillo WiFi Now Available

1347 Hartford Avenue, Johnston 861-1080 F 861-7643 F mansolillodental.com 56

Providence Monthly | April 2013

dining Guide

modern American cuisine. LD $$-$$$

in a warm, friendly setting. D $$-$$$

HARRY’S BURGER & BAR 121 North Main St.; 228-7437. Harry’s features only freshly ground beef, Nathan’s hot dogs, a long list of craft beers and new twists on cocktails. A perfect quick bite or night out. LD $-$$

NYLO 400 Knight Street.; 734-4460.

This contemporary restaurant is both delicious and visually stunning, with a loft restaurant and lounge. There is continental breakfast Monday-Friday and a full breakfast buffet available Saturday & Sunday. BLD $$-$$$

HARUKI EAST 172 Wayland Ave.; 2230332. For authentic Japanese dining, try Haruki’s large variety of sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, soba noodles and delicious specialty entrees. Enjoy the chic atmosphere and the freshest sushi around. LD $-$$$ JULIANS RESTAURANT 318 Broadway; 861-1770. What began in 1994 as a small Federal Hill brunch spot has grown into a popular destination for award-winning brunch, dinner, desserts, craft beer and cocktails. Outdoor seating, vegan options. BBrLD $-$$ KARTABAR 284 Thayer St.; 331-8111.

This European-style restaurant and lounge offers a full menu of unique dishes with Mediterranean flair and eclectic flavors. They also offer a top-notch wine list and martini menu. LD $-$$ KITCHEN BAR 771 Hope Street; 3314100. Offering contemporary comfort cuisine in an elegant setting, Kitchen Bar features daily specials and take-out.

Try their Clams Zuppa or Coriander Encrusted Flat Iron Steak or have the kids order from the kid’s menu. LD $-$$ LIM’S 18 Angell St.; 401-383-8830. Dive into the unique combination of Lim’s fine Thai cuisine and sushi served in an intimate and modern setting. LD $$ LUXE BURGER BAR 5 Memorial Blvd.; 621-5893. Luxe brings the classic burger to a new level. Their build-your-own burger list, which includes Kobe and Gold Labeled beef, never ends, with countless possible combinations. LD $-$$ MCBRIDE’S PUB 161 Wayland Ave.; 751-3000. McBride’s is a traditional Irish pub serving all the classics from Fish ‘n Chips to Corned Beef and Cabbage. They offer live entertainment on Tuesdays and Saturdays. LD $-$$ MILLS TAVERN 101 North Main St., 272-3331. The only restaurant in RI to receive The Mobile Four Star Award for five consecutive years, Mills Tavern provides traditional American cuisine

Key

PARKSIDE 76 South Main St.; 3310003. Chef/owner Steven Davenport offers innovative and classic foods with eclectic flare. The menu also includes creative pasta dishes and, of course, the signature rotisserie meats for which Parkside is famous. LD $-$$ PHO HORN’S 50 Ann Mary St.; 3656278. Pho Horn’s offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including traditional dishes like the popular Pho (noodle soup) and Rice Chowder with Pulled Pork. It’s a delicious choice for anyone looking for something different. LD $-$$ PROVIDENCE OYSTER BAR 283 Atwells Ave.; 272-8866. Visit this unique restaurant for a taste of the sea, featuring “Today’s Catch” and specialty Shrimp and Fish Tacos. “Appy Hour” from 4-6:30pm features a Sushi and Raw Oyster Bar. LD $-$$ PROVIDENCE PRIME 279 Atwells Ave.; 454-8881. At this finest USDA steakhouse, the atmosphere is fresh and sophisticated. With award winning steak, fresh seafood and a collection of over 300 bottles of wine, it’s the best in its class. LD $-$$$ RED STRIPE 465 Angell St.; 437-6950.

It’s classic comfort food with French influences. From their Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup to ten styles of Moules & Frites, Red Stripe’s menu is reasonably priced and made with passion. LD $-$$$ RICK’S ROADHOUSE 370 Richmond St.; 272-7675. With hand-cut, fire kissed steaks, gut busting burgers and fall off the bone ribs, Rick’s brings the best slow-cooked cuisine to the Ocean State. LD $-$$ RUE BIS 95 South St.; 490-9966. This intimate eatery provides breakfast and lunch in a cozy, neighborhood bistro atmosphere – all with the gourmet pedigree of Hope Street dining staple Rue De L’Espoir behind it. BBrL $

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

Introducing The Wurst Kitchen at Chez Pascal RUE DE L’ESPOIR 99 Hope St.; 7518890. In business for over 30 years, the Rue has only gotten better. Beautifully prepared with the freshest ingredients, the innovative, constantly changing menu keeps diners on their toes. Superb brunch. BBrLD $$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 10 Memorial Blvd. (at the GTECH Center); 272-2271. Come celebrate their fifth year overlooking Waterplace Park by treating yourself to the best USDA Prime steak in Providence. Change your life one bite at a time. D $$$ SAKURA 231 Wickenden Street; 3316861. Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine, fresh sushi and sashimi in this casual, unpretentious neighborhood spot. Choose a comfortable booth or take your shoes off and have a seat in the tatami room. LD $-$$ SIENA 238 Atwells Ave.; 521-3311.

Federal Hill’s Siena features authentic Tuscan cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere. The extensive menu includes wood-grilled veal, steak and seafood entrees along with signature pasta and sauté dishes. D $$-$$$ TASTE OF INDIA 230 Wickenden St.; 421-4355. Providence’s first Indian restaurant delivers on its promise of serving real (and really delicious) Indian cuisine, with seafood delicacies and Tandoori specialties, made with authentic Indian spices.

LD $-$$ TRATTORIA ZOOMA 245 Atwells Ave.; 383-2002. Located on historic Federal Hill, Zooma offers award winning Neapolitan cuisine in a beautiful, upscale setting, specializing in house made pasta, local fish, meats, vegetables and authentic wood fired pizza. LD $$-$$$ VANITY RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 566 South Main St.; 649-4667. Seeped in the “speakeasy” style of the 1920s; Vanity is nothing to keep quiet about.

Featuring a mobster-themed menu with Americana favorites and seafood like the Joe Pesce: A medley of clams, shrimp, calamari and fish in a spicy pomodoro sauce and finished with a veggie risotto. Their nightlife brings modern fun into a world of nostalgia: fuhgeddaboudit! D $-$$$ WURST KITCHEN AT CHEZ PASCAL

Small open kitchen featuring hotdogs, house made sausages and sandwiches for lunch.

For dinner enjoy sausages (served outside the bun) and small plates of delicious ideas.

960 Hope Street, 421-4422. Have lunch or dinner at the Wurst Kitchen, a small open kitchen located in Chez Pascal, featuring house made sausages, cured meats and more. Lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30am-2:30pm and dinner also Tuesday through Saturday, 5:30-9:30pm. LD $-$$

Wurst Days

Tues-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm

Wurst Nights

Tues-Sat 5:30pm-9:30pm

XO CAFé 125 North Main St.; 2739090. XO Café celebrates fine food, wine and funky art. It features a seductive atmosphere, outmatched by playfully composed dishes inspired by natural/local ingredients. BRD $$-$$$

South County ELEVEN FORTY NINE RESTAURANT 1149 Division St, (Warwick/East Greenwich line); 884-1149. 965 Fall River Ave., Seekonk; 508-336-1149. Metropolitan chic comes to the suburbs at this super stylish restaurant with a raw bar, outstanding menu and some of the best cocktails around. LD $$-$$$ SIENA CUCINA 5600 Post Rd., East Greenwich; 885-8850. Siena features authentic Tuscan cuisine in a warm and lively atmosphere, plus over 20 wines by the glass and an Italian “tapas” menu. D $$-$$$

North BLACKIE’S BULL DOG TAVERN 181 George Washington Highway, Smithfield; 231-4777. This tavern specializes in comfort food and features a large selection of beer. Skilled bartenders, drink concoctions and live music make this the perfect happy hour spot. LD $-$$

960 Hope Street, Providence 421-4422 • chez-pascal.com

Leader’s in Eye Care Since 1927 Dr. David A. Vito Dr. John D. Corrow Dr. Carl D. Corrow Dr. J. Lawrence Norton Dr. Matthew D. Doyle • Emergencies Seen Immediately • Same Day Appointments Often Available • Evening and Weekend Hours Available • Glaucoma • Macular Degeneration • Cataract • Diabetic Eye Disease • Designer Glasses • Specialty Contact Lenses

331-2020 • www.AdvancedEyeCareRI.com 780 North Main Street, Providence Official Eye Care Provider of the Providence Bruins

Gain Experience Make Connections Have Fun! Now Accepting Resumes for Editorial, Marketing, Design, Multimedia and Photography Internships Send your resume and sample work to: resumes@providenceonline.com

Providence Monthly | East Side Monthly | SO Rhode Island | The Bay

west bay CHAPEL GRILLE 3000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston; 944-4900. Fancy a Mediterranean meal without traveling across the Atlantic? Chapel Grille’s menu features their own take on the traditional accompanied by artisanal ingredients and dishes made from scratch. Whether it’s in their stunning dining hall or their Cathedral Bar - voted “Best Restaurant Bar” and “Best Bar Food in Rhode Island” in 2012 - what the Chapel serves up is sure to be heavenly. BrD $-$$$

GRADUATION CELEBRATION!

MENU

Let Whole Foods Market help you enjoy more time with loved ones, and less time in the kitchen. Enjoy party platters, hors d’oeuvres, entrées, cakes, floral centerpieces and more!

Check out our menu in store or online!

wholefoodsmarket.com

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS 601 North Main Street, Providence, RI

Catering 401.413.0347 • Store 401.621.5990

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

57

Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Providence Original

Spring has sprung, and so has our new Spring menu.

Reserve today to experience the many layers of Millâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. millstavernrestaurant.com 401.272.3331 101 N. Main Street

April Showers bring ...

National Grilled Cheese Month!

Our signature sandwich features pesto, poached pear, prosciutto, & Bel Paese cheese.

redstriperestaurants.com 465 Angell St. in Wayland Square

401.437.6950

Open Sunday, including Brunch from 10am - 3pm

Get Out

Photography: Melissa Stimpson

EVENTS / ART / MUSIC / THEATRE

Great Minds Think Alike The Providence Athenaeumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s massive library looks like something youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d

The Athenaeum on Benefit Street hosts salons every Friday night

stumble upon on Pinterest. If you stop by on a Friday, you can engage in lively conversation with experts in the fields of art, literature, science, history, music, theatre and

philosophy as part of the weekly Salon Series. Drop in on your way home from work (or on your way to dinner) to enjoy drinks, meet new friends and exchange ideas. Free.

5-7pm. 251 Benefit Street. 421-6970, providenceathenaeum.org.

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

59

Get Out |

Calendar

By Erin Swanson

This Month April 1-30 Peregrine’s gallery director K Lenore Siner joins fellow artists Madelyn Mann and Kathriel Brister in presenting the Incipient Arts Group Show. The collective supports each other through their painting. Free. 150 Waterman Street.

654-4618, peregrinegallery.com.

April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Every Tuesday AS220 holds a Street Funk Dance Class with Genesis Camille of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew.

Drop in for a class to try your hand at hip-hop, pop, latin, vogue, runway or more. $13. 6:45pm. 95 Empire Street.

831-9327, as220.org.

April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Head to the Roots Cultural Center for its weekly Strictly Jazz Jam featuring Mango Trio Richard Hundley, Mibbett Threats and Zeffro Gianetti. $2. 8-11pm.

276 Westminster Street. 272-7422, rootsprovidence.com.

April 2-21 Trinity Rep presents Social Creatures, an end of the world tale where seven survivors are holed up in a building, trying to prevent contagion from getting in so to preserve civilization. $44$58. 2pm & 7:30pm show times. 201 Washington Street. 351-4242, trinityrep.com.

April 3-7, 10-14 The Gamm presents The Real Thing, a play about love, affairs and failing marriages. Charlotte is an actress who appears in a play about marriage written by her husband Henry. $36. 2pm, 7pm & 8pm shows.172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 723-4266, gammtheatre.org.

April 3-7, 11-14 David Mamet’s Race follows three lawyers, two black and one white, as they defend a white man charged with a crime against a black woman. See what happens at Ocean State Theatre Company. 1245 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick. 921-6800, oceanstatetheatre.org.

April 3-30 From Wafaa Bilal, the artist who once surgically implanted a video camera

60

Providence Monthly | April 2013

in his skull, comes The Ashes Series, eerie photos from Iraq. Stop by David Winton Bell Gallery and have a look. Free. 64 College Street. 8632932, brown.edu/campus-life/arts/ bell-gallery.

April 4 Bob Marley is coming to the Comedy Connection! While he can’t sing a reggae song, Marley can tell a mean joke.

He’s performed on Leno and Letterman and now he comes to the Ocean State. $25. 8pm. 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. 438-8383, ricomedyconnection.com.

April 4, 11, 18 & 25 Summer is just around the corner. Until then, Thursdays on the Terrace has become Thursdays at the Biltmore. Indulge in cocktails and complimentary hors d’oeuvres while enjoying live jazz.

Free. 5-8pm. 11 Dorrance St. 421-0700, providencebiltmore.com.

April 5 & 6 The world famous Harlem Globetrotters hit the Dunk with their renowned ball dribbling, spinning and maneuvering skills. This year for the first time, fans vote on the rules of the game.

7:30pm. $20-115. 1 LaSalle Square. 3316700, dunkindonutscenter.com.

April 5, 6, 12 & 13 Festival Ballet Providence presents the 10th season of its award-winning dance series, Up Close On Hope. The intimate 80-seat theatre will serve wine and appetizers from local restaurants. $50.

8pm Friday; 7:30pm Saturday. 825 Hope Street. 353-1129, festivalballet.com.

April 5-14 The Black Box Theatre presents Our Town, a three-act play about everyday life. It’s the first show at the brand new state of the art theatre. 7pm on April 5, 6, 12 and 13; 2pm on April 7 and 14.

50 Rolfe Street, Cranston. 490-9475, artists-exchange.org.

April 5, 12, 19 & 26 Every Friday it’s Friday Night Live at Everett. Performers improvise on song, dance and skits that are appropriate

The Providence Roller Derby roller bulls are ready to gore for good

The Running of the Lady Bulls April 28: The Providence Roller Derby girls are banding together for a good cause this month - the Get Gored For Good Fundraiser to benefit the Amos House. Based on the famous Pamplona, Spain running of the bulls, these lady “bulls” will be decked out in horns, skates and red-dipped paintbrushes.

You run through downcity Providence while they attempt to run you down. Sounds fun right? The run ends with an after party in the streets. Participants should meet and check in at Waterplace Plaza/Tiled Tunnel area (near Luxe Burger). $20-35.

10am-4pm. 272-0220, getgoredforgood.com. for all ages. Prepare to laugh, cry, snort and wet your pants. Better bring a change of clothes. $5. 7pm. 9 Duncan Avenue. 831-9479, everettri.org.

April 6, 13, 20 & 27 Saturday Nights bring Improv Jones at the 95 Empire Black Box. This long running improv comedy show has been entertaining audiences since 1992. $5.

10pm. 95 Empire Street. 831-9327, improvjones.com.

April 6, 13, 20 & 27 Make a date with your little one for the Brown University Bookstore’s weekly Children’s Story Time. Each Saturday, the bookstore is transformed into a magical world where tots can learn.

Free. 244 Thayer Street. 863-3168, bookstore.brown.edu.

April 6, 13, 20 & 27 Every Saturday brings the weekly Wintertime Farmers’ Market at Hope Artiste Village. Shop for organic, farm fresh groceries while you sip coffee and mingle with new friends. 9am-1pm. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. farmfreshri.org.

April 7 The world’s greatest Pink Floyd show returns to Providence as Brit Floyd: PU-L-S-E 2013 hits the stage at the Vets.

The three-hour show features performances from five full album sides plus light and sound. $39.50. 8pm. 1 Avenue of the Arts. 222-1467, vmari.com.

April 7 Head to Lupos for a bit of Southern warmth this month as The Carolina Chocolate Drops hit the stage with

Get Out |

Calendar

By Erin Swanson

trinity repertory

Give them an inch, and they’ll take the whole arm.

company their unique old time fiddle and banjo music that’s made them famous here and abroad. 7pm. $22-30. 79 Washington Street. 331-5876, lupos.com.

April 9-14 Whoopie Goldberg made it great, PPAC makes it greater. Sister Act is a play about Deloris Van Cartier, who witnesses a crime and is sent to live in a convent by police. $46-73. 2pm, 6:30pm, 7pm, 7:30pm & 8pm show times. 220 Weybosset Street. 421-2787, ppacri.org.

April 11 Buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks as you root for the home team at McCoy Stadium. Join the crowd in cheering on the Pawtucket Red Sox. Sure beats truckin’ it up to Boston in the middle of rush hour traffic and paying an arm and a leg to park. $5-$12. 7pm.

One Ben Mondor Way, Pawtucket. 7247300, pawsox.com.

April 12 You may have seen him in This Is 40, crashing Paul Rudd’s fictional record label. Now Graham Parker reunites with his band the Rumour for their first album together in 31 years. $37.50-40.

8pm. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket.

729-1005, themetri.com.

April 13 They inspired Stephenie Meyer to write her uber-successful Twilight series; let them inspire you. British band Muse hits the stage at Mohegan Sun for a show that’s sure to be wild. $45-65. 8pm. 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Uncasville, CT. 888-226-7711, mohegansun.com.

April 18 Come to The Met and support Rhode Island Public Radio (RIPR) at their Listen Local – Made In Rhode Island Event featuring Tamara Keith, National Public Radio (NPR) congressional reporter, a Q&A with our newsroom, local food and drinks, a raffle, an interactive recording studio and more! All proceeds benefit RIPR. $50 & $100. 6-9pm. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. Ripr.org.

April 20 Got beer? If not, head to the Rhode Island Convention Center for its annual Spring Beer Show. With food, music and unlimited sampling from over 250 brewers, it’s sure to be a drunken blast. $44. 1-10pm. 1 Sabin Street. 458-6000, riconvention.com.

April 23 Come to the Hope Artiste Village to celebrate Craftopia, a super, duper

day of original art, crafts, food and fun.

This juried event of handmade works of art will be in the same brick-lined space used by the Wintertime Farmers’ Market. Free. 10am-4pm. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. 626-1833, rhodycraft.com/Craftopia.

April 25 Dine out for a cause as restaurants across Rhode Island donate a percentage of their sales to AIDS Project Rhode Island in Dining Out for Life.

559-7896. For a list of participating restaurants visit aidsprojectri.org.

April 26 Fete presents Sara Azriel with The Silks and Herrick Bain. Azriel is a singer songwriter who graduated from Berklee College then moved out to LA where she gave piano lessons to Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling. $10. 8pm. 103 Dike Street. 383-1112, fetemusic.com.

April 27 With performances in 22 countries, Momix’s dancers, music, crazy costumes and props combine to entertain at MOMIX Botanica, considered “the IMAX version of dance theatre.” $3555. 7:30pm. 848 Park Avenue, Cranston. 467-7275, parktheatreri.com.

April 27 Come to the Pawtucket Armory for An Evening Uncorked!, a celebration of food and wine to benefit Rhode Island PBS. Chefs from Southern New England’s top restaurants will prepare tasting-sized portions with wine tastings. Festivites begin with a Champagne and raw bar reception and cocktail attire is required. $100 $ $150.

6-10pm. 172 Exchange Street, Pawtucket. 222-3636, ripbs.org/uncorked.

April 28 Join the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in honoring its 2103 inductees with a Ceremony and Concert at The Met, featuring legendary family band The Cowsills and many more. $10-25.

7pm. 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket.

225-8860, rhodeislandmusichalloffame.com.

April 28-30 Visit the RISD Museum for Artist/ Rebel/Dandy: Men of Fashion, an exhibit that runs through August. Also on April 28 is the first ever Tweed Ride, where stylish guys and gals enjoy a leisurely bike parade downtown.

Check online for details. 224 Benefit Street. 454-6500, risdmuseum.org.

social creatures

by Jackie Sibblies Drury

WORLD PREMIERE! March 14 –April 21 (401) 351-4242 • trinityrep.com • 201 WASHinGton St. • proViDence • SupporteD by tHe nAtionAl enDoWment for tHe ArtS • SeASon SponSoreD by

Tuesday special: Manicure and Pedicure for $28!

Offering Shellac Manicure Pink & White • Acrylic Nails • Nail Overlay • Gel Nails Sculptured Nails • Manicure • Pedicure • Nail Art Air Brush Design • Waxing • Extra Massage Available Walk-Ins Welcome • Gift Certificates Available

Professional Nail Care for Ladies & Gentleman

401-861-8500 • 783 Hope Street, Providence

Monday-Friday 9am-7:30pm • Saturday 9am-6pm / Sunday 10am-5pm

The Best Noodle Soup in Town

50 Ann Mary Street, Pawtucket (off N. Main) In former Shaw’s Plaza 365-6278 • phohorns.com Mon-Thur 11am-10pm • Fri-Sat 11am-11pm Sun 11am-9pm

(temporarily stopping delivery service)

Rhode Island Yacht Club Now Accepting Applications for both Social and Boating Memberships

1 Ocean Avenue, Cranston 401-941-0220 • membership@riyc.org

www.riyc.org

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

61

Creating Memorable Events Personalized service Comfortable atmosphere with private spaces for groups of all sizes

Pure Pigment Hair Color.

Delicious food and diverse menu offerings

90 Spruce Street, providence • 401.272.4676 Like us on Facebook @ Rosebud Salon/Aveda for current looks. www.rosebudsalon.com

SHOP SALE the

THE LARGEST SALE IN NEW ENGLAND FOR 65 YEARS!

April 18-20

Three Days Only • Free Admission Thursday, Apr. 18, 10 am-8 pm Friday, Apr. 19, 9 am-8 pm Saturday, Apr. 20, 9 am- 4 p.m.

In the Wheeler School gym at 407 Brook St. (off Angell) in Providence, Rhode Island

phone 401.421.8100 web www.wheelerschool.org/clothingsale facebook: facebook.com/wheelerclothingsale

62

Providence Monthly | April 2013

r e s ta u ra n t

Corporate Events // Private Dinners Celebrations // Offsite Catering

Eleven Forty Nine Restaurant

1149 Division Street, Warwick, RI 401.884.1149 www.elevenfortyninerestaurant.com Contact the Sales Team at 401.884.1149

Get Out |

Theatre

A New York Style Deli?

By Molly Lederer

Yes!!!

House Smoked Pastrami, Turkey and Chicken House Cooked Corned Beef House Cured Bacon and Ham Salads, Soups & Specials – Vegetarian Options – Meats by the Pound Catering Too!

A rehearsal for Race at Ocean State Theatre Company

Decide for Yourself

Ocean State Theatre Company builds a convincing case in Race

Photography: Tim Sikeira

Remember the story of

a hotel maid’s alleged assault by a businessman at a chic hotel? Before the disturbing case was dismissed, it made international headlines. And long afterwards, accusations lingered in the court of public opinion. Race, a tense drama by the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Mamet, concerns a similar subject. It premiered on Broadway in 2009, preceding the New York v. Strauss-Kahn scandal by over a year. Whether Mamet was prophetic or the tale all too common, Race offers a timely, provocative view on power and prejudice.

Race takes place in an attorney’s office. Partners Jack and Henry and their associate Susan debate whether to take on the case of Charles Strickland, a wealthy, middle-aged, white man accused of a terrible crime against a young, black woman. As with most Mamet plays, the audience gets thrown into the ring right away. The writer of Glengarry Glen Ross does not pull any punches, and his script comes out swinging in an aggressive exploration of racial stereotypes, social psychology and the criminal justice system. As Henry says, “The Law, Mr. Strickland, is not an exercise in metaphysics, but an alley fight.”

Amiee Turner, the Producing Artistic

Director of Ocean State Theatre Company, helms the current production of Race. She aims to stage shows that trigger thoughtful discussion, as she hopes this one will. Rather than define the play’s message on the issue of racial relations, she notes, “I think Mamet’s brilliance is to see all sides of it, and to present it in a very objective manner.

And therefore it forces the audience to think about it and make their own decisions about what the piece means.”

After five seasons as the producing arm of Theatre by the Sea in Matunuck, Turner and her team recently repurposed a vacant garage in Warwick into an impressive, state-of-the-art theatre. Now in their inaugural season, the group’s new Jefferson Boulevard space provides ample opportunity for innovative staging. During their last show, an energetic production of the rock musical RENT, they used the back wall of the building as part of the set.

For Race, Turner expects to minimize the stage and close off the proscenium a little in the process of creating an appropriately intimate setting.

“I think David Mamet is really good at writing private conversations,” Turner observes of the playwright’s dialogue in Race. (His rapid-fire, realistic, decidedly adult style is so distinctive that it’s often referred to as “Mamet

speak.”) She continues, “when we feel like we’re behind closed doors, we do speak differently. I think David Mamet really allows the characters to embrace that freedom.” In Race, Mamet challenges the audience to address preconceived notions on serious, sensitive issues. He doesn’t suggest any simple solutions, and his tone ranges from cynical to antagonistic. But director Turner points to the passion of Mamet’s characters, and the sincere friendship he depicts between the two male attorneys, as evidence of hope. She explains, “It’s the amount of respect they have for each other that allows for the freedom of being so open and honest with each other. I suspect that part of what he’s doing is saying, until we can have a really open and honest and respectful dialogue about our feelings, how are we ever going to get past them?”

369-7633 146 Ives Street, Providence www.doksdeli.com

ANNUAL SALE •

•

custom upholstery and slip covers custom window treatments

•

blinds and shades

•

upholstered antique restoration

•

area rugs and wall to wall

•

headboards

•

bedspreads & shams

Race Through April 14 Ocean State Theatre Co. 1245 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick 921-6800 oceanstatetheatre.org

401-231-1660

2179 Mineral Spring Avenue North Providence, RI www.bobfrances.com

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

63

Get Out |

Music

By Eric Smith

Speciality Food productS

Rhode Island’s Only ALL Gluten-Free Health Food Store

Sampling Event: Mediterranean Snacks

Saturday, April 13 10am-4pm Come sample a variety of their Veggie Chips, Baked Lentil Chips and Cugino’s Dipz. Cugino’s now has a Cheesy Bacon dip.

80 Main Road, Tiverton • (401) 816-5844 www.healthyhavenRI.com

www . r h o dy f i t n e s s . co m

BEAUTIFUL PRE-OWNED JEWELRY

Empire Loan 1271 North Main Street Providence, RI 02904

• Custom Résumé Writing • Career Coaching and Assessments • Interview Training • Dress for Interview Success

WALLY KEENAN

Certified Résumé Writer/Career Coach

1020 Park Ave, Suite 106 Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 461-8899 www.the-resume-connection.com 64

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Hear Deleted Arrows’ music at deletedarrows.com

Monster Riffs

Deleted Arrows creates instrumental drama sans frontman On “Seasons Out of

Sequence,” the first track off Deleted Arrows’ brand new release The Body as a Wasteland, (Prolific Summer) guitar momentum rules the day as the track builds on wave after wave of brainy riffs, guitars noodling manically around each other and a drum/ bass partnership holding everything perfectly together. Deleted Arrows are an instrumental band but rather than sounding like a band with the vocals simply removed, their instrumental interplay creates dark drama fraught with internal tension far more convincing than any vocalist could conjure up. It’s an airtight track that shifts back and forth between needle sharp guitar pointillism and heavy slabs of progressive metal. “Brand New Memory” emerges from studio enhanced muffling and a great rolling bass line to explode into shards of nervous energy with great raw sheets of noisy guitar being shaken down from above. The twin guitars eventually distill into beautiful dual patterns which wrap around each other for a few fitful moments before the song is off onto its next crazy tangent. “I have this bad habit of writing way too many parts and then insisting that they all fit together somehow,”

explains Brent Frattini, but it totally works here. When Deleted Arrows uses its instrumental might to the best of their abilities, each part of a song is like a different scene in the same film. Sometimes the transitions are jarring, but always intentionally so. “Rereading Broken Books” is a harrowing ride down the rabbit hole; deep descending riffs and bright signatures echoing off walls punctuated by heavy riffs throughout.

Deleted Arrows have remained somewhat under the radar since the band emerged out of a confluence of other bands breaking up. Daughters, The Cancer Conspiracy and sweetthieves all had to die in order for this band to live but the best elements from each have thankfully remained. Mr. Frattini and Chris Carrera (also of Weak Teeth) hold down truly inspired guitar duty, while Mike Viele from legendary recording studio Machines With Magnets and Dave Pignone of Tinsel Teeth take on drum and bass. Early proto-versions of the band endured months of delays while members either had kids or left to pursue DJ careers. “Life took over for awhile,” says Frattini, who spent the past year hammering out new musical ideas with the current lineup and

is anxious to get the band out in front of audiences again.

I’ve seen Deleted Arrows a handful of times and they are an absolute monster live. Every bit as huge sounding as on their recordings and in no way lacking from not having a traditional frontman. “What I enjoy most is when you look out into the crowd and you can tell that they aren’t bored. Some people don’t realize that there is a difference between writing for an instrumental band, and just not having a singer.” He continues, “The only time I miss having a singer is when we load gear into the shows.” (author’s note; I’ve never seen a singer move gear. Fact.)

With two engineers in the band and insider access to a few recording studios, Deleted Arrows set out to make The Body as a Wasteland over two years ago, before life took over, and right before their previous label pulled out support at the last minute delaying the record’s release for another year.

But Prolific Summer, a new label from Frattini’s hometown of Burlington, Vermont will issue the vinyl this spring and discerning music geeks should preorder it now lest they miss out on clear orange vinyl and beautiful gatefold sleeves. deletedarrows.com

Photography: Tim Siekiera

Tips, Deals, Reviews, Events Calendar & Resource Directory For Everything Fitness In RI

Spice up your spring!

E?

O EXAMIN WILLING T David Mamet=

daring=

daring

march 27–april 14 contains adult language

NCE?

MA LOVE A RO Rodgers & Hammerstein=

classic=

classic

april 24–may 19 401-234-1003

(401) 305-2623

For tickets, call 401.921.6800 or visit OceanStateTheatre.org 1245 jefferson boulevard, warwick

new venue • convenient location • free parking

full service offset printing full color printing high volume copying color copying large format printing mailing services bindery and finishing electronic file transfer layout and design letterhead

April Special

envelopes business cards invitations forms manuals booklets brochures catalogs postcards signs/banners

500 FREE Business Cards*

with the purchase of 500 Letterhead and Envelopes *Must be presented at time of Quote.

Offer Expires 04/30/13

102 Waterman Street Providence, RI tel: 401.421.5160 fax: 401.272.0686 email: print@allegraprovidence.com

www.allegraprovidence.com

...we print for your success

P R O V I D E N C E

AllegrA Print & imAging in Providence is indePendently owned And oPerAted

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

65

Join Jo oin us View complete list of events at www.ric.edu/pfa

Monday, April 8 7 : 3 0 P. M . | SAPINSLEY HALL IN THE NAZARIAN CENTER

wayland sq | providence

chapel view | cranston

www.teasandjavas.com | brought to you by Alex and Ani, LLC

The Muir String Quartet T I C K E T S W W W. R I C . E D U / P F A O R ( 4 0 1 ) 4 5 6 - 8 1 4 4 www.facebook.com/PerformingArtsSeries.RIC

THE RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN

APRIL 13, 2013 10AM—4PM BENEFIT STREET, BETWEEN WATERMAN AND COLLEGE STS CSI.RISD.EDU | 401.454.6602

66

Providence Monthly | April 2013

Get Out |

Art

By Alicia Kamm

The Art of Science

Photography: Michael Cevoli

A local artist creates for a cure Two years ago Kelly Milukas walked into the Providence Art Club to meet an old friend for lunch. An hour later she exited the building stunned. It was as if she’d been given the keys to a gleaming Ferrari 458 Italia. Her thrill lasted seconds before it being bowled over by anxiety. She knew she had to drive home, up College Hill, having no prior experience driving a stick shift. Only Kelly didn’t receive a Ferrari. What she received was the proverbial keys.

During lunch, Kelly’s friend explained that she was commissioned by the Regenerative Medicine Foundation (RMF) to be the sole artist for their internationally attended Translational Regenerative Medicine Forum.

Say what?

Her mission, if she chose to accept it, was to artistically translate the enigmatic, almost sci-fi science of regenerative medicine to us mere mortals. The RMF provided her with one clue to get her started: use the visual analogy of keys and locks to show the mysteries of the human body and its ability to cure itself.

Kelly didn’t accept right away. For starters, she isn’t a scientist or a doctor. She doesn’t even play one on TV. What she is, is an artist in every sense of the word. By day, she’s at the forefront of the Creative Capital’s performing art scene where she’s spent a cool 14 years serving as the Director of Concerts for Providence’s most prominent playhouse, the Providence Performing Arts Center. By night, (and it seems, every other waking second she has) she’s at The Bow House Studio in Tiverton. There, in the studio she owns, she masterfully layers pastels with watercolors to create fiery seascapes, radiant rural retreats and delightfully gritty markets where ordinary apples become as tantalizing as Eve’s forbidden fruit. She humbly confides, “I knew they were placing enormous trust in me. I needed to know that I had the passion deep inside to visually translate this medical science into art.”

Can you blame her? Regenerative medicine is the stuff that doctors and scientists sign their life away for. Benevolently, they sacrifice their own personal time to ensure future

Happy Spring From the STAFF at the...

Authentic Indian Cuisine Right on Federal Hill!

145 Dean Street, Providence (Off Atwells Ave) 273-6363 Kelly Milukas’ art will be displayed at the Providence Art Club this month

bombayclubri.com Convenient free parking in back

generations receive the best possible treatment and ultimately a cure for life-threatening diseases. It’s a complicated solution to a simple yet major health crisis: the shortage of organs.

Pioneers in the field of regenerative medicine reconstruct organs out of stem cells and biomaterials. Brand spankin’ new, fully functional organs from the cells of a patient’s failed organ. It didn’t take Kelly long to accept wholeheartedly.

She began collecting keys and locks, from the ordinary to ornate. She captured the beauty of these inanimate objects and breathed life into them, similar to a doctor giving life to a synthetic material by combining it with stem cells. Her journey took her to unorthodox places, once standing on a train track to photograph several keys, the tracks representing the veins of life and the body’s ability to heal itself.

In 2011, The Keys to the Cure debuted in Washington D.C. at the Ronald Regan Building and International Trade Center. Kelly displayed her works, comprised of 25 original paintings and fine art photography printed on aluminum. She also courageously addressed a packed room of worldrenowned scholars and clinicians explaining that, “Keys have patina, age, wisdom. Locks have mysterious interiors, like our souls. Nature is the background, the canvas a direct link to life.

Each key is unique, carrying its own unlockable magic to heal. Science holds the promise to the cure.”

Two years later and Kelly’s project has come full circle. A once bewildered recipient of a surprise commissioning, she’s back at the Providence Art Club as a passionate artist and educator of regenerative medicine. There’s no denying that she’s hooked. “This visual translation of science seeped into my DNA. All of the possibilities that this science offers our generations, I can’t help but be consumed by it. I won’t stop until I must,” she says.

Milukas, a mad scientist in her own right, has significantly advanced her body of art. Pushing the envelope on materials, she carves stone clayed keys, casts them with resin and gilds them with 23k gold, palladium and Japanese silver. The keys seem to float off of color fields that represent the interiors of our bodies.

The exhibit, premiering April 7 at the Providence Art Club, is a celebratory fusion of art and science. We now have the keys to understand the intricacies of this revolutionary science of regenerative medicine its promise for future generations.

Free. The Keys to the Cure is on display April 7-26. Providence Art Club, 11 Thomas Street. 331-1114, providenceartclub.org.

DentPlus Dental Center

• Veneers • Crowns • Dentures • Family Dentistry • Tooth Whitening Come in and Schedule an appointment today!

Where you’ll always find the brightest SMILES! Your DownCity General and Cosmetic Specialist 66 Kennedy Plaza Providence www.dentplus.net | 401-454-3000

Invest in you...

Counseling & Life Coaching A better life?

Believe it.

Steven M. Kane, Ph.D. Providence, RI • 401.454.5700 kanesmk@verizon.net Inquiries invited

April 2013 | Providence Monthly

67

The Last Detail

It’s not quite yard sale season yet, but that’s okay. For those people who can’t get enough of the thrill of the bargain hunt, there’s a better option: the 65th annual Wheeler Clothing and More Sale. Think of it like a giant, indoor yard sale for a good cause. Parents and friends of The Wheeler School donate clothing for kids and adults, shoes and accessories, housewares, books, appliances, furniture and toys, and offer them

68

Providence Monthly | April 2013

up in a three-day shopping blitz from April 18-20. Think new and gently used items (much of what you’ll find still has the tags on it) by names you’ll recognize, like Cole Haan, Lilly Pulitzer, Donna Karan… we even spotted a pair of Chanel shoes once. Proceeds benefit the school’s summer programming and scholarship funds.

Won’t it feel nice to treat yourself while doing some good? wheelerschool.org/clothingsale –Julie Tremaine

Find all of these items for sale at the Wheeler Clothing Sale, April 18-20

Photography: Stacey Doyle

The Best Kind of Bargain Hunting

Dine In Style

bRunch nEvER taStED So GooD… EvERy SunDay 10-2 PRovIDEncEoyStERbaR.coM

PRIME

a cut abovE thE RESt a tERM that aPPlIES to MoRE than juSt ouR StEakS

PRovIDEncEPRIME.coM

Providence Oyster Bar

Providence Prime

283 Atwells Ave, Providence

279 Atwells Ave, Providence

401-272-8866

401-454-8881

Check out our full menu online ProvidenceOysterBar.com

Dinner served Monday-Saturday ProvidencePrime.com

Atwells Group Hospitality Management, LLC is a management company organized as a limited liability company, whose sole purpose is managing restaurants and facilitating their needs. There is no unity or commingling of corporate and financial interests among the management company and the managed restaurants.

Each managed restaurant is a distinct, separate and independent business entity and enterprise with its own signature cuisine, exemplary quality and culinary experience. Each restaurant is individually owned and has its own fine reputation, personality and style. Enjoy them all.

SPRING

INTO ACTION...

...by joining us for our exclusive pre-sales event on April 4th

Contact us for more info

OPENING IN APRIL

Health & Fitness

401.519.6555 SynrgyFit.com Three Davol Square . Providence . Rhode Island

LOOK BETTER NAKED

SynrgyFit.com

You’ll love wearing shorts for a whole new reason.

Eliminate your varicose veins with minimally invasive procedures* from Rhode Island Vascular Institute.

• Endovenous laser ablation • Ultrasound sclerotherapy • Ambulatory phlebectomy Our expert physicians will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation of all of your treatment options with only one appointment.

Trust your legs to Rhode Island’s leading provider of varicose vein therapy – Rhode Island Vascular Institute.

Appointments available in Providence or East Greenwich. *Covered by most insurance companies.

Call 401.421.1924 and schedule your appointment today.

www.RIvascularinstitute.com