Proud member of the Rhode Island Press Association
PRINTED IN USA
CONTRIBUTORS
BOB CURLEY
When the idea for an August cover story about building your own resort-style staycation itinerary with activities around the state, writer Bob Curley was a must. Our longtime contributor has authored countless books, including 100 Things to Do in Rhode Island Before You Die and Secret Rhode Island: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure
JENNA KAPLAN
This month’s feature about education was written by our digital media specialist, Jenna Kaplan. Prior to joining the small-but-mighty team, Kaplan spent seven years as a Woonsocket ESL kindergarten teacher, and has been a social media and blog post writing machine ever since. Read “See You in September” on page 53.
ANN MARTINI
We are excited to announce that longtime contributor and all-around MVP Ann Martini, has officially joined our staff as editor. Rhode Island-born and raised, Martini brings a wealth of journalism experience, and is also a writing and rhetoric professor at URI. During off-hours, she can be found enjoying the best of the West Bay from her home base in Pawtuxet Village.
HUGH MINOR
Hugh Minor jumped at the opportunity to spend time with author Vanessa Lillie, traveling all the way from Cranston to Providence to join her for coffee. They chatted about her soon-to-be-released novel, The Bone Thief , the second in a series featuring a Rhody-based archaeologist, who, like the author, holds strong ties to her Native heritage.
HOUSE HUNT DRAGGING
Don’t settle for plain when you can have pizzazz! This dynamic duo has the real estate magic you need…and all that jazz!
Stephen Gaskin (aka Haley Star)
Stephen Gaskin (aka Haley Star)
508.991.0151
StephenJGaskin.com @therealtorstephen
Wingate Residences on Blackstone Boulevard offers the best in everyday luxuries that you’ll love—like daily housekeeping, fine dining, and a personalized wellness plan. In addition to our Independent and Assisted Living programs, our Memory Care programs, The Neighborhood and The Terrace, focus on maximizing functional abilities, while enhancing engagement and self-confidence in both early and advanced stages. Schedule a visit today and discover the good life.
T:4.75"
At the Sweeney Advisory, we bring deep market insight, thoughtful strategy, and hands-on guidance to every client relationship. Whether buying or selling, we work with you to chart the best path forward—one built on transparency, integrity, and results. If you’re considering your next move, we’d love to help you navigate it.
Funding, connection, and bulbs are at the root of this not-for-profit dedicated to adding flowers to visible spaces
By Abbie Lahmers
Last year, volunteers planted dozens of vibrant zinnias at Good Neighbors, a food pantry in East Providence. The cut flowers were wrapped in thick paper and twine to create stunning bouquets that were gifted to food pantry customers. “It brought tears to everyone’s eyes,” says Kevin Essington, founder and program manager of Bloom Rhode Island. “It was this moment where you’re using flowers to interact with someone and tell them they have value in an active way.”
Photo by Abbie Lahmers
Jeff Matteis, Kevin Essington, and Cristiane Caro at the Pearl Street Garden
The seed money for this flower-powered interaction came from one of many Bloom Rhode Island grants distributed over the past two years. Along with cut flower gardens, grants for individuals and small groups have transformed the landscape of neighborhoods in Providence, Central Falls, Pawtucket, and beyond with colorful flowers.
Getting plants in the ground is just the tip of the iceberg. Jeff Matteis, who runs Pearl Street Garden Collective on the Southside with Cristiane Caro, says the Bloom grant “allows us to utilize the money for the caring of the plants. They’ve given us that flexibility to invest in the maintenance piece.” The friends steward a plot of land provided to them by Yarrow Thorne, who founded The Avenue Concept, the organization responsible for producing many of the murals gracing city buildings.
On a warm summer day at their South Providence garden, it’s obvious that the small footprint does not deter the creativity and industriousness Matteis and Caro pour into the space, but fuels it. Every square foot belongs to projects that carry intention, from the raised beds where Caro is growing flax and nettle – which she’ll use to teach workshops on harvesting and processing plants into fiber – to the pollinator meadow of native plants abutting the fence, where the duo collects seeds to give to visitors on Sunday gatherings that are jokingly dubbed “church.”
The meadow appears to outgrow its boundaries, with vegetation leaking into the “hell strip” between the sidewalk and the curb, but even this is deliberate, to allow pedestrians on the sidewalk to feel like they’re walking through the garden. “This is often a space where it’s not clear who’s supposed to take care of it,” says Essington. “It gets so hot, because of the asphalt and concrete all around it, and the soil is so compact, making it a really hard place to grow things.”
But during a Bloom Network call on the topic of these strips last year, the group decided “hope strip” was more fitting. Before the network was established, there may not have been these kinds of opportunities to discuss the minutiae of urban growing – all of its challenges and pitfalls, as well as successes.
SHARE THE JOY
See a bloom, share a bloom – use #FlowerPeepingRI on Instagram with a photo of a stunning flower or garden in your neighborhood to help spread the joy!
Photo by Abbie Lahmers
Knight Memorial Library
Congress of the Birds, Congress Street, Providence
HOPE SPRINGS
In the fall, Bloom Rhode Island gives away crocus bulbs to plant before winter, yielding the first blossoms of the season to beckon spring. Last year, they provided 161,000 bulbs planted at 32 sites, with an anticipated 200,000 to be distributed this year. Groups can learn more about the Hope Springs giveaway and grant opportunities at BloomRhodeIsland.org.
When Essington connected with a local philanthropist who wanted to invest in livable urban neighborhoods by improving parks and gardens, he discovered that many planting groups were all volunteer-run, over-committed, and not connected to each other. “I interviewed about 40 groups across the state who were doing this kind of work to find out what the challenges were, and we concluded that they would definitely benefit from a network,” says Essington. “I also heard that people are busy, and that grant funding would be a big help in starting that network.”
Since launching the program in April 2024, Bloom Rhode Island has bolstered 106 groups at 117 sites by distributing over $335,000 in funds and hosting regular meetings to brainstorm solutions, exchange knowledge, “and sometimes vent!” shares Essington. “We encourage everyone who wants to connect with other planting groups to join us on regular calls and subscribe to our newsletter.”
The Pearl Street Garden is not only a fully functional plot with everything from wildflowers to vegetable plants and perennial fruit trees, but also serves as a model for
regenerative land stewardship for groups and individuals with less experience. Matteis and Caro experimented with different amendments, like preparing the meadow site with compost tea and inoculating it with fungus –which resulted in only needing to water it once last year. In a workshop they hosted, students felted wool to use in a patch of the garden to experiment with its effectiveness in preventing weeds (the material also breaks down to provide nitrogen as a natural fertilizer). Caro is also testing wool pellets in one of two Japanese indigo beds, with promising results.
Through these methods, planters can “design for abuse” since plots may not receive regular care. “Urban sites are especially difficult to plant in,” Essington notes. “Every site is different, so we always encourage groups to work with an experienced gardener to make a plan that includes soil amendments and watering plans. This is a growing need as temperatures increase, and long droughts impact plantings.”
A stand-out section of the Pearl Street Garden is the Miyawaki microforest. In May, over 100 people came together to plant over
250 trees and shrubs in the 1,000-square-foot area in this collaboration with Groundwork RI. Matteis suspects that in two years, it will be too dense to walk through, and in five to 10 years, a mature forest ecosystem will provide shade and habitat in the unlikely home of 219 Pearl Street.
“When people think about urban community gardens, they tend to be focused on growing as much food as possible, and we want to provide space for that, too, but also inspire people with other possibilities,” says Matteis.
A community has naturally formed around the garden, with neighbors planting kale and cucumber seeds in available beds and one family turning heaps of tomatoes and peppers into salsa. Its sheer visibility has led to traffic-calming results, as folks slow down to see what it’s all about. Says Caro, “I’ve met more people during my last year of working here than I have in the eight years I’ve lived in Rhode Island. It’s been an incredible space to connect with people who are interested and who are doing similar work.”
Photo courtesy of Children’s Friend
Watering plants in the morning is the ideal time
Organic Unsweetened Iced-Matcha from Jenwey Tea Co. topped with our House-Made Matcha Mousse
TO PLACE A TAKEOUT ORDER CALL: 764-5334
Open Daily: Mon-Sat: 7am–2pm | Sun: 8am-1pm 138 Danielson Pike, North Scituate
The Dusty Planet
Indoor fun center and bar
What it is:
A family-friendly indoor miniature golf course, bar, and arcade.
Where to find it:
Inside the brick labyrinth that is Harrison Steam Workspace at 50 Agnes Street; the address is actually 39 Troy Street. The board outside assures you’ve found it!
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
“The Dusty Planet is an artist-made, nine-hole indoor space adventure miniature golf course, arcade, and bar,” explains Doug Abelow of the exciting new business that recently made contact on planet Earth – right in the heart of Olneyville Square. Along with his sister Hannah Abelow, the siblings bring their unique vision to life of a space-themed place to have fun. The all-ages (parental supervision required) minigolf experience features little green aliens, claw machine prizes, vintage arcade games, shimmering disco balls, and surprises at every hole, designed and created by Dusty Planet Studios LLC, whose fabrications have been featured in film and television projects. No reservations are required and on certain days – like Magic the Gathering Wednesday nights – there’s food, courtesy of partners like Puggles Grilled Cheese. Adds Hannah, “We’re Providence’s only galactic-themed bar and mini golf course.”
The Dusty Planet
39 Troy Street
TheDustyPlanet.com
Instagram: @thedustyplanetminigolf
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
P hoto courtesy of The Dusty Planet
Op Ed: No Child Left Ahead
Calling for change at the State House
By Barry Fain and Steve Triedman
The Rhode Island Senate has always been partial to labor, and no surprise, the relationship is deeper than it’s ever been. This should be a major wake-up call for all Rhode Islanders. One of our major concerns is the horrendous education system which continues to be an unfathomable drag on the state. And, with the new Senate president also serving as the National Education Association of Rhode Island (NEARI) president, it’s not a good mix for Rhode Island’s children.
With a gubernatorial campaign upon us, we expect education will once again be a major issue, but this time we are entitled to honest, straightforward answers. The best candidate may just be the one who cuts through all the rhetoric, and proclaims, without hedging, that on education.
WPRI’s Ted Nesi’s blurb ( Nesi’s Notes , June 21) foreshadowed how truly important this issue will be, noting “When the stakes are high, don’t bet against Senate President Val Lawson.” Lawson was a teacher in East Providence for three-plus decades, elected to the Senate from East Providence in 2018. While serving as majority leader of the Senate, Lawson became the president of the 12,000-plus member NEARI union with a salary of $167,000. She became Senate president following the death of Dominick Ruggerio in April. Lawson is no stranger to ethics issues with overlapping roles. She sought advice from the Ethics Commission on potential conflicts between her teachers union job and proposed pension changes under consideration. The commission gave her the go-ahead to vote on the bills in question, invoking the class exception of the state ethics code, which lets elected officials participate in discussions or decisions that benefit themselves within the context of a larger group of people. Ethics Commission members are appointed by the governor: four by the governor directly, with the remaining five appointed from lists of nominees submitted by the House speaker, House majority leader, House minority leader, Senate president, and Senate minority leader. Members are not paid, but often have strong connections to their sponsors.
Another ethics complaint filed against Lawson by the state Republican Party, focused on her dual roles and alleged that her support for perpetual teacher contract legislation will financially benefit teacher unions by increasing their negotiating leverage with employers on financial issues, is a violation.
According to the complaint, Lawson voted for the legislation in the Senate Labor Committee after Patrick Crowley, lobbyist for her organization, NEARI, appeared before the committee. She then voted for the bill on the Senate floor after making a speech in support of it. The Ethics Commission voted 7-1 to dismiss the complaint, with the lone dissenter, Commission member Hugo Ricci, noting that recusal from votes involving her union
may not be enough given the “vast powers” of the Senate presidency. Common Cause Rhode Island Executive Director John M. Marion also weighed in, noting the advisory opinion analysis is “a little naive” about what the office of Senate president involves.
The Senate president has an outsized influence, setting the daily calendars for the chamber, participating as an ex-officio member on every Senate committee, and most important, leading behindthe-scenes negotiations to determine which pieces of legislation advance to a vote. And this is only a single issue. Recently, Lawson had the opportunity to veto department head pay increases proposed by the governor. They were rejected by the House, but she let them pass.
Lawson lives in East Providence, a town
Photo courtesy of Providence Warwick CVB
devastated by the 195 bridge mess that was created and overseen by the head of RI DOT Peter Alviti, essentially a ‘protected’ union appointee. The unions have tremendous influence on many issues, and this was an easy opportunity for her to make a strong point… and we saw which direction she went.
Back to the state’s key issue: education. It’s all adding up to an F for improvement!
Op-eds express the authors’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of Hey Rhody Media Co. Readers are welcome to send responses or letters to the editor to be considered for print publication in a future issue or posted online. Letters can be emailed to Ken@HeyRhody.com
The Must List
10 essential events this month
August 5-10: Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival returns for its 29th year to continue its celebration of independent filmmakers from around the world. A red carpet opening night at PPAC, screenings, and workshops are all planned. Film-Festival.org
August 6: Remember when TV shows had theme songs? Conductor Troy Quinn invites audiences to an evening of orchestral versions of tunes from Star Trek , Jeopardy , Hawaii Five-O , and more at Summer Pops Facebook: RWP Pops at Roger Williams Park
August 9: AS220’s annual summer block party, Foo Fest , returns to Empire Street with area and national indie music and dance acts, plus vendors, food trucks, and local establishments saluting the creatives of the Creative Capital. AS220.org
August 9: FirstWorks Summer Beats concert series presents its first show at Jenks Park in Central Falls, featuring Cape Verdean singer-songwriter Elida Almeida, with Rhode Island’s own hip hop artist and community leader Chachi Carvalho opening. Central Falls, FirstWorks.org
August 10: Don’t miss the Dominican Festival of Rhode Island , which honors culture and heritage with events including a parade down Broad Street that caps with a celebration at the Temple to Music at Roger Williams Park. Facebook: DominicanFestivalRI
August 14-24: The Academy Players present The Wedding Singer , the hilarious story set in mid-80s New Jersey about a professional wedding singer (and wannabe rock star) abandoned at the altar. AcademyPlayersRI.org
August 21: Bring family, friends, and a blanket to Black Classics Under the Stars featuring the film Raisin in the Sun starring award-winning actors Sidney Poitier, Louis Gossett, Jr. and Ruby Dee, plus live jazz from Randy Ashe & Company. RIBFF.org
August 23: Sample the area’s best craft beer at Roger Williams Park’s Brew at the Zoo , a 21-plus event featuring over a hundred beers, hard seltzers, and ready-to-drink cocktails from dozens of local, regional, and national breweries. RWPZoo.org
August 24: The Choreography Project , whose mission is to amplify artists of marginalized genders, presents original works from six emerging choreographers, in the newly renovated Hope High School auditorium. Facebook: Choreography Project
August 24: Enjoy an afternoon of great music at the Rhode Island Folk Festival , a free family-friendly event with 50+ performers on four stages, a kids stage with giveaways, and food trucks. East Providence, RhodeIslandFolkFestival.com
Photo courtesy of FirstWorks
IASIMONE PLUMBING
Summertime Home Solutions
Louis Iasimone, life-long Rhode Islander, is a proud member of a family of leading plumbing and heating professionals. With over 35 years of experience, Louis and the crew at IASIMONE PLUMBING, HEATING & DRAIN CLEANING, INC. provide customers the highest level of service. “It’s so rewarding to have clients call us year after year,” Louis says.
Making sure every client understands their options is an important part of what keeps people coming back to Iasimone each year. The company, a years-long recipient of Angie’s List’s Super Service Award, offers a variety of plumbing and heating services, as well as no-cost estimates. They specialize in installation and repairs of sinks and faucets, bathroom fixtures, water lines, dishwashers, water heaters and boilers, and also offer water and sewage services.
With the summer months here and entertaining at a maximum, Louis recommends giving some extra attention to your drains. To keep your sinks worry-free, be sure to try and clean your drains regularly, at least once a month. If you have a garbage disposal, try using a couple tablespoons of salt and a cup or two of ice to try and eliminate any grease in the disposal. Follow that with some cold water and a lemon to flush it out and keep it smelling fresh. Don’t forget to flush your drains with hot water after washing your dishes (particularly any greasy ones) to keep the grease from building up. If the worst does occur and there’s a blockage you can’t rid, you’ll know to call Iasimone for your drain cleaning solutions.
Neighborhood News
A space made available to Providence’s neighborhood associations free of charge
HOT TOPICS
An overview of what’s happening around the city right now
Mile of History celebrates Hoppin House
The Mile of History Association recently held its annual spring event, celebrating historic Benefit Street. Members and friends enjoyed terrific food and a tour of the Hoppin House renovation project. Preservation architect Fred Atherton led the tour, and architectural historian Ron Onorato provided a brief history of the landmark building, an example of an Italianate palazzo-style residence. Constructed circa 1853, Hoppin House is and remains one of the largest and most elegant houses built in Providence. In October, AARP of Rhode Island is sponsoring Walktober, with walking tours around Providence; historic Benefit Street is included in their celebrations. Stay tuned for more information.
West End concert series continues
The WBNA’s Concerts in the Park series, presented in partnership with Farm Fresh RI, continues this August at Armory Park. Running through September, these free family-friendly events take place during the weekly Farm Fresh Armory Park Farmers Market, held on Wednesdays from 3pm until dusk. Each concert runs from 5:30 to 7pm. Adding to the festive atmosphere is an art marketplace curated by Haus of Codec, and a beer garden by Moniker Brewery. Kicking off August is Nickel Jukebox, a Rhode Island-based six-piece band specializing in “mostly Motown” music. They perform classics from artists like Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye, blending elements of country, rock, blues, gospel, jazz, funk, and reggae into their arrangements. Known for their dynamic vocals and solid rhythm section, the band has become a staple on the local music scene. It’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening in the West End: grab fresh produce, browse local art, enjoy a cold drink, and catch incredible live performances in the park. Upcoming Concerts include: September 11: Mister G (with Missus G); September 18: Wellness Fair; and September 25: New Inca Son.
New mural on Westminster Street
The Avenue Concept (TAC) has unveiled the newest mural in the Ripples Project, a public art initiative led by TAC in partnership with the City of Providence Office of the Mayor and the Department of Art, Culture and Tourism. The new mural by Savonnara Sok was selected through an open call, curated by Ripples Project curatorial fellows Sav Hazard-Chaney, AGONZA, Ryan Richardson, and Vatic Kuumba. “This mural is called Connection , and it’s about our bond with the Earth, moon, sun, and stars, and the quiet reminder that we’re all tied to something bigger than ourselves,” says Sok. “I created this piece for the neighborhood, to bring some light, unity, and peace – especially now, when so much feels divided. I wanted to paint something that makes people feel safe, held, and part of a larger story.” Located at 719 Westminster Street, the work invites viewers to engage in a meditative reflection on unity, love, and interdependence. “This is my way of giving back to the community that’s given me so much. A reminder that we’re not alone – we’re all connected, and that’s something worth protecting,” adds Sok.
SouthProvNeighbors@gmail.com Facebook: South Providence Neighborhood Association
SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 41092 Providence, RI 02940
SNAProv@gmail.com
SummitNeighbors.org
WASHINGTON PARK
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
BettyLinda@aol.com
Facebook: Washington Park Association
WAYLAND SQUARE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Katherine Touafek
Facebook: Wayland Square Neighborhood Association
WaylandSquareNeighbors@gmail.com
WEST BROADWAY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
1560 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02909
401-831-9344
WBNA@wbna.org • WBNA.org
Photo courtesy of Providence Warwick
CVB
THE RHODYResort Life
From beach yoga to golf, find everything you need to plan a fivestar staycation right here
BY BOB CURLEY
Newport likes to call itself “America’s First Resort.” But the fact is that all of Rhode Island is a playground for the kinds of things you’re likely to find on any resort’s daily activities list. From golf, tennis, and pickleball, to biking, water sports, and guided tours, here’s how to spend the whole summer living that vacation life — including sunset dinners on the beach — without ever having to book a room or pay a resort fee.
Triggs is the only true public course designed by Don Ross
FORE PLAY
Rhode Island has more than 30 golf courses that are open to public play, including Meadow Brook Golf Course in Richmond, which has been ranked among the top 100 courses in the US. Other local favorites include Warwick’s (on the East Greenwich line) Potowomut Golf Club, designed by a protege of golf legend Donald Ross, and Newport National, an 18-hole, links-style course named New England’s top public golf course by New England Golf Monthly . A hidden gem in Providence is Triggs Memorial Golf Course. Recently rated one of the top 14 municipal golf courses in the US, this actual Ross-designed course is a favorite for its challenging layout, generally buffeted by wind. Affordable daily rates, including discounts after 5pm, make it a win-win.
Looking to work on your stroke? Cranston’s Topgolf has three floors of bays to tee off from, and waiter-service means you don’t have to anguish until the 19th hole to get food and drink. If your short game is your only strength, there are 36 holes of mini golf under a fire-breathing volcano at nearby Mulligan’s Island, a nautical-themed 18-hole course at Adventureland in Narragansett, and the quirky, alien-inhabited Dusty Planet in Providence — a nice rainy-day option since it’s indoors.
SERVING TIME
You don’t need to be a club member to book court time at most of Rhode Island’s eight indoor tennis centers, but summer is the best season for outdoor play on the hundreds of public courts available statewide. Some of the best are the 10 clay courts (and one hard court) at Roger Williams Park, where the Providence Tennis Academy runs leagues, tournaments, and tennis camps. Courts are available on a membership basis or with a day pass. The historic grass courts at the Newport International Hall of Fame are available to the public. Racquet rentals are available at the Pro Shop; just be sure to wear your tennis whites – top and bottom – for outdoor play.
Like a lot of people, Lil’ Rhody Pickleball owner Kevin O’Brien’s path to the sport originated with tennis. “I was at a tournament in Massachusetts and they had taped pickleball lines on the tennis courts. I found them distracting and said, ‘this sport needs its own courts.’ So I looked into it.”
It’s been nearly two years since O’Brien opened Lil’ Rhody Pickleball in a shopping center in North Kingstown, and he’s plinked and dinked his way to success in what’s been called the country’s fastest growing sport. “It got started as an easier alternative to tennis and sort of a senior citizen game, but now it’s filtering down to everybody; even younger kids are getting involved,” he says.
Lil’ Rhody has five indoor pickleball courts (each named for a different town in Rhode Island) and two outdoor courts. Other options include Centerline Pickleball in Warwick, Newport Pickleball, and of course outdoor public courts — mostly relined tennis courts, but also some permanent, pickleball-only ones in places like Diamond Hill Park in Cumberland and Wilson Park in North Kingstown
AUGUST 22
THE HALL OF FAME CELEBRITY PRO CLASSIC
The event makes its debut on the famed grass courts. Highlights include mic’d up doubles matches with teams of celebrity guests, Emmy Award-winning actress Uzo Aduba, and Angela Kinsey, playing alongside Hall of Famers including Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters, Tracy Austin, Jim Courier, Arantxa Sánchez Vicario, and Gigi Fernandez.
Top Golf
Ocean State Pickleball
P hoto (top) courtesy of Abigail Brown, (bottom) courtesy of Ocean State Pickleball
PADDLE UP
Water sports are among the most common resort activities, and it's no surprise that Rhode Island has plenty to offer — this is the Ocean State, after all.
Kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available from Narrow River Kayaks in Narragansett, where you can ride the tides up and down the Pettaquamscutt (Narrow) River all summer long. Providence Kayak Company offers urban explorations in the heart of the capital city as well as paddles in Lincoln Woods State Park, and Blackstone River Expeditions leads guided, 90-minute tours of the river that gave birth to the American Industrial Revolution from their base at Central Falls Landing.
Sunset and moonlight paddles are the most popular tours run by the The Kayak Centre in Wickford. Held when the moon is full, the moonlight paddles are actually a buy-one-get-one, since the tours are
timed to catch both the sunset over the West Bay and moonrise over Jamestown. Other options include a Taco Tuesday outing with Hobie Eclipse pedalboards followed by fish tacos at Wickford on the Water restaurant. Some guided tours venture into Narragansett Bay, but most tours and renters stay within the confines of Wickford Harbor.
“If you were to paddle the coastline of the entire harbor it’s about nine miles,” says Kayak Centre store manager Matt Bosgraaf. “You start in the village but then get more into the nature side of things in the Mill Creek area. There’s an osprey nest on Rabbit Island, and people often stop at the beach on Cornelius Island for lunch.”
Rather sail than paddle? Sail Newport will rent you a Rhodes 19 or J/22 sailboat so you can explore Newport Harbor and work on your boating skills.
The Kayak Centre
HORSES, OF COURSES
Two of Rhode Island’s best state parks can be experienced on horseback. Sunset Stables’ one-hour trail rides through Lincoln Woods State Park saddle up every day of the week from 9am to 5pm. The hardwood forests in the park are full of deer, so Bambi sightings are common. Newport Equestrian also offers a two-hour tour along two beaches and a wildlife preservation with views of Saint George’s Castle.
BESPOKED TOURS
Rare is the bicyclist who loves hills, but an e-bike (a bike with a motor to help you pedal) can help with the ups and downs of a Block Island by Bike tour. Owner Zena Clark leads on- and off-road tours of this “Last Great Place” by e-bike and mountain bike, mixing history and nature talk with the passing scenery.
Dan Murphy was working in healthcare when he realized his true passion was biking, so he quit his job to launch Little Compton Adventures, an e-bike tour company that offers guided rides along the lightly traveled roads of the quietest stretch of the Rhode Island shoreline. “I sometimes have to pinch myself, because it’s a beautiful place to live and I get to take people for bike tours,” he says.
Tours take between two and two and a half hours, cover 15-18 miles, and set off on most mornings and evenings. Groups pedal to the historic Commons, the Little Compton town landing with its views of Sakonnet Lighthouse, and through peaceful Wilbour Woods. “They call this the farm coast with all of the stone walls and the ocean,” Murphy says. “Most people haven’t been here, but they want to ride somewhere near the water and it’s nice and quiet over here compared to Newport.”
Newport Equestrian
Blackstone Valley Explorer Tours
Little Compton Adventures
P hoto courtesy of Little Compton Adventures
P hoto by Corey Favino, courtesy of Discover Newport
YACHTS OF FUN
Soak up some summer vibes on a cruise of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay with Newport Classic Cruises, which will get you onto a sloop (Eleanor), schooner (Madeline and Adirondack IV), or a Prohibition-era yacht (Rum Runner II). The red sails of the Aurora are an unmissable sight in the waters off Newport, and this twin-masted schooner’s scheduled sailings include a midweek lobster lunch; pair it with your favorite bottle of wine or bubbly on this BYOB cruise.
Providence’s rich maritime and architectural heritage is featured on Providence River Boat Company narrated tours; other options include cruises with wine and oysters, twilight cruises, and special sails on Waterfire nights. Blackstone Valley Explorer tours combine natural beauty with Industrial Revolution history in the form of old mills and canals.
P hoto courtesy Blackstone Valley Tourism Council
COOL POOL
You don’t need a room key to enjoy poolside cocktails and summer swims at the Last Resort in Smithfield. This restaurant, which also presents a regular lineup of live entertainment, has a junior Olympic-sized swimming pool and six poolside cabanas, an outdoor tiki bar, and volleyball court. The pool is open daily to the public for a fee. Heading to Block Island? Champlin’s Marina & Resort offers day-passes to its family-friendly (“Marco!” “Polo!”) heated waterfront pool with dining options.
COASTAL POSES
Say “namaste” to the divine light of a Rhode Island summer with morning yoga on some of the state’s best beaches. Natural Fitness Yoga offers 8am sun salutations on Narragansett Town Beach; all ages and ability levels are welcome. Both morning and full moon yoga classes are led by the yogis of South County Community Yoga on Charlestown Town Beach.
South Kingstown Town Beach is the sacred strand chosen by All That Matters for their daily morning yoga sessions and monthly full moon yoga. The popular classes usually attract around 25 people on weekdays and up to 100 on weekends. Sessions are held right on the beach, with a covered pavilion for those who prefer to be out of the sun.
“We keep it very natural: it’s all the ambient sounds of summer, with waves crashing and seagulls crying,” says All That Matters director and yogi Michele Maker. “Some teachers opt to do the ending shavasana right in the water.”
All That Matters
Stina Leigh
P hoto (top) courtesy of The Last Resort, (L) courtesy of Stina Leigh, (R) courtesy of All That Matters
FISH TALES
Want to reel in some game fish or catch sight of whales? The Frances Fleet in Galilee has half-day, full-day, and night fishing trips that go for fluke and black sea bass, as well as deep-sea tuna fishing trips. Afternoon whale and dolphin watching tours set sail from late June to early September.
One of the Ocean State’s hidden treasures is the quality of its river fishing, says New England Fly Fishing School’s Ed Lombardo. “Rhode Island has some of the finest tidal rivers in all of New England,” he says. Lombardo leads wade-fishing outings for striped bass and hickory shad in the Narrow River and other locations; the Wood River and its tributaries are rich with trout. Newcomers have the option of starting with a fly-casting lesson at Addieville East Farm in Burrillville.
“It’s a lot more than just fishing,” says Lombardo. “I show guests the aquatic insects that are here and why we tie the flies the way we do. If they are neophytes, I’ll give them lessons and show them what to look for when you’re actually fishing. Reading the water is very important, because 20 percent of the water holds 90 percent of the fish.”
BEACH EATS
Rhode Island has many places where you can end an active day with dinner and drinks with a water view, but relatively few where you can actually dine on the beach. The Windjammer and the Ocean Mist in Matunuck come close with outdoor patios and decks overlooking the waves. The iconic Ocean House in Watch Hill offers beach-adjacent tapas at Dalia (pro-tip: bring cash for valet parking).
For true toes-in-the-sand dining, point your sandals toward Paddy’s Beach Club in Misquamicut, which serves a fast-casual menu of beach favorites, and the beach tiki bar at George’s of Galilee, where the tropical drinks can be paired with to-go meals from the restaurant or nearby food trucks.
BEACH PARTY
There’s visiting Block Island and then there’s Ballard’s Beach Resort – which has its own vibe. Close to the ferry, this place has everything for an endless summer in one day (or a stay). The food and drinks are delish (Daiquiri Bar!), they have a quarter-mile-long private beach with cabana rentals, fire pits at night, and a schedule of live music. Too much sun? There’s an indoor oceanfront restaurant, too.
Dalia at Ocean House
New England Fly Fishing School
P hoto (L) courtesy of Ed Lombardo, (R) courtesy of Ocean House
RHODY RESOURCES
A DIRECTORY OF “AMENITIES” FOR BUILDING YOUR OWN RESORT-WORTHY ITINERARY:
ADVENTURELAND FAMILY FUN PARK, Narragansett | AdventurelandRI.com
ALL THAT MATTERS YOGA AND WELLNESS, Wakefield | AllThatMattersWellness.org
BALLARD’S BEACH RESORT, Block Island | BallardsBI.com
BLACKSTONE RIVER EXPEDITIONS , Central Falls | RiverTourBlackstone.com
BLACKSTONE VALLEY EXPLORER, Central Falls | RiverTourBlackstone.com
BLOCK ISLAND BY BIKE, Block Island | BlockIslandBikeTour.com
BLOCK ISLAND PARASAIL, Block Island | BIParasail.com
PROVIDENCE RIVER BOAT COMPANY, Providence | ProvidenceRiverBoat.com
PROVIDENCE TENNIS ACADEMY, Roger Williams Park | ProvidenceTennis.com
RI CRUISIN’ COCKTAILS | RICruisinCocktails.com
ROSE HILL GOLF CLUB, Kingston | TheRoseHillGolfClub.com
SAIL NEWPORT, Fort Adams State Park, Newport | SailNewport.org
SEDIMENT BACKYARD LOBSTER BAKES, Block Island | SedimentBlockIsland.com
SOARING EAGLE ZIP RIDE, Providence | RWPZoo.org
SOUTH COUNTY COMMUNITY YOGA, Charlestown Facebook/So County Community Yoga
SUNSET STABLES, Lincoln | SunsetStablesRI.com
TOPGOLF, Cranston | TopGolf.com
TRIGGS MEMORIAL GOLF COURSE, Providence | Triggs.US
WANNAMOISETT COUNTRY CLUB, Rumford | Wannamoisett.com
WILSON PARK PUBLIC PICKLEBALL COURTS, North Kingstown | NorthKingstownRI.gov
THE WINDJAMMER SURF BAR, Misquamicut | TheWindjammerSurfBarRI.com
Ballard's
RI Cruisin' Cocktails
International Tennis Hall of Fame
MEET OUR PROVIDERS
Nadia Rudman, PA-C
Emily Ferullo, PA-C
Alyssa Findley, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Catherine Luz, DCNP, FNP-C
Skin Issues Can’t Wait
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ASAP!
We treat patients of all ages, accept all major insurance plans, and make it easy to access high-quality care. Call 401-415-8586 or visit FindleyDerm.com today!
• Full-Body Skin Exams & Spot Checks
• Skin Cancer Detection & Treatment
• Acne & Rosacea
• Eczema, Psoriasis & Rashes
• Moles, Cysts, Warts & Skin Growths
• Hair Loss & Nail Disorders
• Anti-Aging Solutions
• Various Cosmetic Treatments
HOME & STYLE
Home | Shop | Influencer | Wellness
Window panels installed just-below the ceiling add visual height to the living room
Relaxed Luxury
A centuries-old Newport home honors the past but basks in contemporary livability
By Andrea E. McHugh
hen a Boston-transplant couple who had spent a few years living on the opposite side of the City by the Sea saw a Bridge Street colonial in the Point neighborhood hit the market, they jumped at the chance to make it their own. Inside, they pay homage to its enviable lineage, with a framed reprint of the original map of Newport commissioned by King George III and published on September 1, 1777.
“This is an historic house that is on the National Register of Historic Places. A plaque on the house notes that it dates from the mid-1700s, but the previous owner reported that the original part of the house dates from the 1600s,” say the homeowners. In their 60s with six adult children and several grandchildren, they were looking for a place that could accommodate the comings and goings of a large family, a comfortable space to gather, and a roomy office for the work-from-home husband. While they treasure its lineage, one element that particularly appealed to the couple was that the
home had been fully renovated by the previous owner and was move-in ready. “We have done renovations before, and to be able to just move in was wonderful,” says the wife, a retired teacher.
Still, the couple wanted to make it their own, and they didn’t need to go far: just around the corner is Maloney Interiors on Thames Street. Ally Maloney Winzer, founder and principal, was tasked with integrating the couples’ personal style, which they describe as “traditional with a twist of fun,” into a centuries-old home.
“The homeowners wanted to refresh their home furnishings,” says Maloney Winzer. “We used some of
Sailing posters and lobster-themed plates inspired the dining room palette
their favorite colors as well as their existing art collection as inspiration for our design.” Maloney Winzer focused on redesigning the living room, home office, and dining room. Weaving in new color schemes, patterns, textures, and furniture styles, the designer introduced a colorful, classic, elevated design with a personality all its own.
The cornerstone of the living room is a custom-designed sofa and armchairs. “It’s always exciting to design a truly custom piece of furniture because it genuinely brings our clients joy
A History of Hope
2026 marks a monumental milestone for our nation and for Rhode Island’s unique contributions to 250 years of revolution, independence, and hope.
Celebrate our revolutionary state in all the places where history happened and all the places where Rhode Island’s story continues to unfold.
Visit RhodeIsland250.org to discover year-round events hosted by communities across the state, and create memories that commemorate our past while inspiring our future.
RhodeIsland250
RhodeIsland250
knowing they have a one-of-a-kind piece,” says Maloney Winzer. The design priority in the office was to brighten and uplift the space. Maloney Winzer took inspiration from the colors of a painting in the room. A colorful Loom & Co. rug helps balance the dark floor, and interesting fabric patterns were selected for accent pillows, a desk chair, and window treatments. Giving the home a sense of place, much of the artwork references Newport institutions including a framed original poster of the 1980 America’s Cup, a framed copy of the 1963 Newport Folk Festival program, and a large photo of a polo pony. Adds Maloney Winzer, “The home is now vibrant and cheerful, a perfect reflection of the homeowners’ personalities.”
Photography by Cate Brown, courtesy of Maloney Interiors
In the office / sitting room, the area rug and textiles were all designed to coordinate with the client’s artwork and desk lamps
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Sense of Place
Maloney Winzer took her design cues from playful accents throughout the home. In the dining room, the couple’s vintage collection of lobster dinnerware and sailing posters served as the inspiration for the color palette. Custom Roman shades in blue-and-white striped fabric offer a subtle nod to the nautical, fitting for a home in the sailing capital of the world. “Coastal design doesn’t have to be preppy, blue and white, or like anything you’ve ever seen before,” says Maloney Winzer. Learn more about her services and style at MaloneyInteriors.com.
Strong Foundation
The home beautifully illustrates how old and new can be seamlessly blended. Family treasures, collected antiques, and original features, including exposed original joists, an 18th-century fireplace for cooking (now converted to gas) and a non-functioning beehive oven, are elegantly juxtaposed by contemporary art.
Aw-Shucks
The couple enjoy neighborhood favorites like Jessica Hagen Fine Art + Design and Young Designs Floral Studio, a charming flower shop filled with gift items, home décor, and whimsical finds. They cite visiting Rose Island and Newport mansions as musts, and enjoy shopping at Aquidneck Island specialty food shops like Bottega Bocconi, Anthony’s Seafood, and Aquidneck Meat Market to support local business owners. “We have a growing collection of oyster paraphernalia to accommodate our growing love of local seafood and my husband’s selftaught shucking skills.”
Sailorcore Style
By Elyse Major
If the Ocean State had a signature pattern, it just might be stripes. The classic pattern – no matter the colorway – is shore to deliver fresh maritime style. The nautical version was first used by the French navy as an easy-to-spot uniform, and we’ve been overboard for the jaunty look ever since. We’ve scoured the state for apparel and accessories for the whole family so that all-ages can earn fashion stripes this summer.
Meet Vanessa Lillie
By Hugh Minor
The Bone Thief is your second novel featuring Syd Walker, a Cherokee archaeologist based in Rhode Island. What’s your connection with this character?
Syd has the same last name of a family member who walked the Trail of Tears [forced relocation of Indigenous peoples in the Southeast US during the 1830s]. A lot of her work is around fighting the erasure of Indigenous peoples. So it’s great to have a way to share the Cherokee language, to share some of the history. Even the Walker Family Cemetery featured in the book is a real cemetery, part of my family history.
What led to this novel being so rich with local history?
As a writer, I’m really interested in the way history echoes. Being Cherokee from Oklahoma is very different from being Narragansett from Rhode Island. I put Syd, who is similar to me, a white-presenting Cherokee, in this world of Rhode Island, where I’m thinking about modern colonialism and what the history of a place means to us all.
What terrifying adventure is Syd Walker facing this time?
In the second book, we dig into the Great Swamp Massacre. I created a fictional, wealthy kids’ camp where some remains tied to the Massacre are found. Again, we’ll deal with a missing girl and how that ties into our history. I bring in the Smoke Shop Raid from our more recent past (July 14, 2003 in Charlestown) and how that impacted the Narragansett tribe and still resonates today.
You’re very involved in the local literary community, participating in reading events and panels at bookstores and libraries. What do you love about these experiences?
It’s really fun to connect with other writers. It can be a pretty lonely profession. I love hanging out and meeting people from this community. There are pockets of really enthusiastic readers who support authors or support bookstores. They’ve built a community around their local authors. You see familiar faces at all of these events.
What are some of your go-tos on writing breaks?
Hope Street businesses! I love to shop at Kreatelier, J Marcel, Studio Hop, pH Factor, and Frog & Toad. Cafe Zoey for coffee, outside lunch at Wara Wara, and ice cream after at Like No Udder!
Rejuvenation-cation
From hair baths to hydration, there’s a summer re-set for you
By Emily Homonoff
True self-care takes many forms –and the goal is to do something that gives a feeling of rejuvenation. It could be reading a book, moving your body, making something with your hands, or treating yourself to a treatment. Here are five Rhode Island-based businesses that are broadening the notion of what wellness means.
REIKI FOR FIDO AND YOU
HYDRATE FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Offering wellness services was a necessity for Kate-Lyn Birchell, MSN, FNP-BC, owner of Salt
At Energetic Healing + Wellness in Pawtucket, owner Court Sousa is leading the charge in redefining wellness by serving both people and their pets. “Everything I offer is grounded in compassion, presence, and intuitive care,” she says. “As a holistic practitioner, I honor each person and animal as a whole being — body, mind, and spirit.” This is present in Sousa’s compassionate pet reiki service, inspired by their beloved dog Yuengling. These therapeutic sessions are geared toward animals with “a new family dynamic, those moving through health issues, or facing behavioral changes, bringing an increased level of wellness and happiness to any household.” Pawtucket, Energetic-Healing-Wellness.Webador.com
H20 MedSpa & Hydration in Westerly, whose background is in emergency medicine. “Working in these settings you see the first-hand consequences of not taking care of your body and how this leads to poor health emotionally, mentally, and physically.” When developing the IV hydration services, where nutrients and fluids bypass the digestive tract and go directly into the blood stream, Birchell felt that “Life is short and we all want to be able to live our lives to the fullest.” She adds, “We love that we can offer services tailored to individuals and their goals.” It’s also worth noting that all staff members are medical professionals who follow professional guidelines. Westerly, SaltH2OMedSpa.com
Saltitude Himalayan Salt Cafe
Photo (L) courtesy of Saltitude Himalayan Salt Cafe
Energetic Healing + Wellness
WASH THE WORLD AWAY
Operating out of Island Beauty in Middletown, stylist Kindra Scheer’s Saltwater Head Spa is inspiring salon-goers to take a little more time for themselves. “Wellness is the time that one takes to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate. It’s important to stop and do something for yourself, she says.” The experience that Scheer has created is unique for every guest. “Some guests book appointments to help combat concerns like dry scalp, oily scalp, or dandruff, and others come to the spa purely for relaxation.” Services include hair bath shampoo head massages. Even better, Scheer only utilizes low-toxicity products and can add on additional services such as blowouts and mini facials. Middletown, IslandBeautySalonAndSpaRI.com
GET HOLD AND COLD
Cold plunging is practiced by a variety of cultures around the world and is even linked to ancient civilizations. Today, co-owners of The Plunge Experience, Dr. Dan Forlasto DPT and Jonathan Freeman PTA, CPT, bring this revered tradition to Cranston. To this duo, wellness is described as knowing that you have the mental and physical capabilities to perform everyday tasks along with those recreational activities that bring you joy while maintaining healthy relationships with the world around you. The experience that Forlasto and Freeman have created combines cold plunging in water set to approximately 50 degrees, with sauna time, and comes with a healthy dose of encouragement. Cranston, ThePlungeExperience.com
FIND SOLITUDE IN A CAVE
Lincoln-based Saltitude Himalayan Salt Cave is owned and operated by mother-daughter team PJ Johnson and Casey McGuire, who have made wellness their life’s work. “As a family rooted in meditation, we were excited to bring like-minded guests together for meditation and relaxation through a unique healing environment,” says McGuire. For both, “Wellness means having a safe place to just be,” which is exactly what they’ve created. Saltitude is a human-made Himalayan salt cave designed for extra relaxation, and in addition to their signature salt sessions, Johnson and McGuire also offer yoga, breathwork, and other classes in their cave. “At Saltitude, we strive to create an experience that separates the mind, body and spirit from the daily clutter of a chaotic world.” Lincoln, Saltitude.net
Salt H2O MedSpa & Hydration
Saltwater Studio and Head Spa at Island Beauty
The Plunge Experience
FEATURE
See You in September
Strategies for easing back into the school routine
By Jenna Kaplan
As summer winds down, the rhythm of the school year begins to hum in the background. For families, this season is less about endings and more about transition – shifting from unstructured days to the familiar cadence of backpacks, routines, and fresh notebooks. And while the first day of school may be circled on the calendar, real preparation begins well before the bell rings.
Whether you’re sending off a wide-eyed kindergartener or nudging a senior toward their final homeroom, a smooth transition starts with thoughtful habits at home. From reestablishing routines to nurturing emotional readiness, these practical tips can help set the tone for a confident, successful start.
Encourage practical independence
1. Rebuild the Routine
One of the most effective ways to ease back into school life is to re-establish routines before the first day. Summer’s flexible schedules often stretch bedtimes and blur mealtimes, but experts agree: structure gives kids a sense of security and confidence. Start by adjusting sleep and wake times
about two weeks before school begins. Gradually shift bedtimes and alarms by 15-minute intervals until they align with school-day demands. A solid sleep pattern can improve focus, mood, and memory, key components for a successful start. Extend structure to morning and evening rituals. Practice getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating breakfast,
and packing backpacks. These “dry runs” help build time awareness and can even become fun with timers or playlists. A few full run-throughs the week before school, including alarms and getting out the door, help reduce morning meltdowns and boost confidence. Keep things relaxed. The goal is comfort, not perfection.
Photos courtesy of Adobe Stock
2. Get Familiar with the Space
First-day nerves often stem from the unknown, which is why familiarity is a powerful tool. Attend school orientations or open houses, if available. Walk through hallways, peek into classrooms, and point out key locations like the cafeteria, nurse’s office, and bathrooms.
2025/2026 School Calendar
From the first day to the last and every holiday and break in between, find it all at the Rhode Island Department of Education website at RIDE.RI.gov
Small State, Big Plate
Even brief visits help kids form a mental map and ease anxiety. If no formal visit is offered, check the school’s website for photos or a virtual tour. Talk through what the day might look like, from drop-off routines to lunch breaks, and reinforce who they can turn to for help.
3. Open Up Conversations
Big transitions bring big emotions. In the weeks leading up to school, create space for low-pressure conversations. Ask what your child is excited or nervous about, and reassure them that their feelings are valid. “You don’t need all the answers,” says Ann Gallagher, a speech-language pathologist in the Woonsocket Education Department. “Just being available to listen and observe can make a big difference.” For younger children, role-play common scenarios like asking for help or greeting a new friend. Older kids might benefit from journaling or creating simple goals for the school year. These conversations strengthen the parent-child connection and promote emotional readiness.
4. Encourage Practical Independence
Back-to-school prep isn’t just about supply runs. It’s also about helping kids manage daily tasks with confidence. Age-appropriate chores, such as feeding the dog or setting the table, foster time management and a sense of responsibility that carries over to the classroom. Let your child help pack their lunch, choose their outfit, or prepare their school bag. It might take longer, and you may need to negotiate
Seniors ‘26
If you have a high school senior considering higher education, it’s never too early to start planning. The Rhode Island Student Loan Authority (RISLA) is a nonprofit quasi-state organization that provides affordable education loans, free college admissions, and financial aid support through the College Planning Center. Online tools include family income, college, and budget calculators, and scheduling an in-office appointment can be a big help for parents and guardians who are learning how to navigate the process. Learn more at RISLA.com
whether pajama pants count as real clothes, but the process builds self-reliance. Encourage younger children to practice tying their shoes, zipping coats, and opening snack containers. These small skills reduce stress during the school day. Older children benefit from a dedicated homework space stocked with essentials and maybe a fun personal touch, like a favorite photo or novelty pencil holder.
Skip the slip-ons: shoe-tying helps build fine motor skills
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
FEATURE
RHODY RESOURCES
Local businesses are here to help:
CLOTHING, SHOES & ACCESSORIES
• Bellevue Kids, Newport
• Feminine Fancies, Barrington
• Lorelei’s for Little Ones, Newport
• Luca Boutique, Warren
• Savon Shoes, Warren & North Providence
• Teddy Bearskins, East Greenwich, Wickford & North Kingstown
• The Matchbox, Providence
• Wildflower Kids, Westerly
SUPPLIES
• Craftland, Providence
• Frog and Toad, Providence
• Rhody Craft, Providence
LEARNING & SKILLS
• Cadence Academy Preschool, Smithfield
• Dr. Day Care: Central Falls, Cumberland, East Greenwich, Pawtucket, Providence, North Providence, Smithfield
• The Etiquette Factory, North Kingstown
• Levy Educational Advocacy, Cranston
• The South County Montessori School, North Kingstown
HANDS-ON FUN
• Biomes Marine Biology Center, North Kingstown
• Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol
• Create Color Art, Narragansett
• Homeschool Adventures at the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, Providence
• RI Parent Information Network (RIPIN): RIPIN.org
Continued on next page...
5. Let Shopping Boost Confidence
Choosing your own school supplies can be a surprisingly powerful experience. For many kids, back-to-school shopping isn’t just about ticking items off a list; it’s a chance to feel capable, independent, and ready for what’s ahead. Whether it’s a glittery water bottle, a new backpack, or the perfect highlighter set, letting your child take the lead on small decisions can help them feel more prepared and excited for the year ahead. A first-day outfit, no matter how simple, can also work wonders. It’s not about brands. It’s about helping your child feel like they’re stepping into something new with style and self-assurance.
6. Focus on Healthy Habits
The foundation for a smooth school day
Choosing school supplies can be a powerful experience for children
begins at home, especially with sleep, nutrition, and screen-time habits. Breakfast doesn’t need to be fancy. A banana, toast with peanut butter, or a smoothie can provide lasting energy. Children who eat breakfast are more likely to stay focused and avoid mid-morning fatigue. Ease back into screen-time limits gradually. Try capping device use at around two hours a day. Turning off screens an hour before bed can help reset sleep patterns. Consider swapping screens for calming nighttime rituals like reading or prepping lunch together. Hydration is often overlooked, so a reusable water bottle that follows your child from the classroom to after-school activities supports both focus and well-being. A consistent bedtime routine with simple cues, such as bath time or quiet reading, can make mornings less chaotic and more intentional.
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Continued from previous page...
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
• All Saints STEAM Academy, Middletown
• Barrington Christian Academy, Barrington
• Bishop Hendricken High School, Warwick
• Bishop McVinney School, Providence
• Blessed Sacrament School, Providence
• Community Preparatory School, Providence
• Croft School, Providence
• French-American School of RI, Providence
• Fr. John V. Doyle School, Coventry
• Gordon School, East Providence
• La Salle Academy, Providence
• Lincoln School, Providence
• Moses Brown School, Providence
• Mount Saint Charles Academy, Woonsocket
• Portsmouth Abbey School, Portsmouth
• The Prout School, South Kingstown
• Providence Country Day School, East Providence
• Rocky Hill Country Day School, East Greenwich
• St. Andrew’s School, Barrington
• St. George’s School, Middletown
• St. Mary Academy – Bay View, Riverside
• St. Patrick Academy, Providence
• St. Philomena School of the Sacred Heart, Portsmouth
• School One Special Programs, Providence
• Wheeler School, Providence
• The Wolf School, Rumford
MONTESSORI SCHOOLS
• Montessori Centre of Barrington
• Montessori Children’s House, Providence
• Montessori Community School of Rhode Island (MCS RI), Providence
• Montessori of Greenwich Bay, East Greenwich
• Ocean State Montessori School, East Providence
• Orchid Montessori School, West Warwick
• Quest Montessori School, Narragansett
• Sea Rose Montessori Co - op, Portsmouth
• South County Montessori School, North Kingstown
Notebooks, pens, and pencils never run out of power
Why Speech and Language Screenings Matter
Health and academic readiness go hand in hand, and that includes communication. “For younger children, early speech and language milestones are typically checked at pediatric visits,” explains Gallagher. “Following directions, understanding early concepts, and expressing oneself clearly all lay the groundwork for literacy and social skills.” She notes that hearing screenings are also part of routine back-to-school checkups. However, some concerns don’t surface until a child starts kindergarten. “Teachers often notice when a student struggles with articulation or understanding classroom routines,” she says. “At that point, a speech and language screening may be requested.” Gallagher encourages parents to observe speech and language development as early as possible, but not to panic if their child seems behind their peers. “There’s a wide spectrum of what’s considered normal,” she says. “If you’re unsure, start with your pediatrician or a licensed speech-language pathologist.” Unaddressed communication
challenges can lead to school-related anxiety. Children who aren’t understood, or who notice they speak differently, may withdraw, act out, or avoid participating in class.
“To reduce that anxiety, early identification and school-home collaboration is key,” Gallagher emphasizes. “If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), make sure it’s updated and in place at the start of the year.” She also underscores the importance of keeping communication open between home and school. “Parents who reach out and ask for strategies to use at home are incredibly helpful,” she says. “Speech therapy doesn’t happen in a bubble. Carryover at home strengthens progress made at school.”
Whether your child is heading to preschool or preparing for graduation, thoughtful routines, health check-ins, and open communication can make a lasting difference. “Every child has a unique set of strengths,” says Gallagher. “With the right support and preparation, they’re set up to thrive.”
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Modern Living Infused with Energy
Discover the transformation of the Federal Hill skyline at Huntington Exchange Providence! Nestled in the heart of Providence, this animal-friendly apartment community offers beautifully renovated 2-3 bedroom homes. Enjoy stylish features such as sleek quartz countertops in the kitchen and bathroom, stainless steel appliances, in-unit washer and dryer (available in select units), and designer flooring throughout. Conveniently located near Route 6, I-95, and just minutes from Providence Place and WaterFire, Huntington Exchange Providence brings comfort and convenience to your doorstep.
FOOD & DRINK
Experience | Round Up | Recipe | Food Trends
House of Blues
Discover authentic Mexico City flavors and hospitality on Allens Avenue
By Kou Tukala Nyan
On a sunny afternoon in Washington Park, a friend and I set out for a taco lunch at Casa Azul Taquería – our first time visiting. From the upbeat bachata and salsa music, lively decor, and the smell of the flavorful foods, we knew we had come to the right place. Casa Azul originally opened in July 2020 by Alejandra Ruelas and Javier Soto, who are both from Mexico City and met in the United States. Ruelas, with a 20-year background in bartending, and Chef Soto decided to open their restaurant despite the pandemic, and faced the uncertainties of the time with the support of their family and community.
Photos courtesy of Casa Azul
Discussing the inspiration for the name and the colorful art filling the walls, Ruelas told me, “I grew up around Frida Kahlo’s house, La Casa Azul, in Mexico City. I wanted someone to represent us, and Frida was my first choice – an exceptional artist, very proud of her Mexican heritage. She was a resilient woman who was ahead of her time. She is an all-around inspiration for us.” Ruelas said their team started with five people and has since tripled, and consists of mostly women. “We support each other and grow together.”
Must-Try Items
BIRRIA RAMEN: Slow-cooked beef birria stew with ramen noodles topped with fresh red onion, cilantro, shredded beef, and jalapeños, served with a side of salsa and limes.
THREE BIRRIA TACOS AND CONSOMÉ: Melted cheese and slowcooked beef birria in corn tortillas, topped with cilantro and onions, with a side of consomé, limes, and homemade salsa.
Cuisine: Traditional foods from Mexico City Atmosphere: As lively and vibrant as a Frida Kahlo painting
Birria tacos and consomé
Photos courtesy of Casa Azul
Birria ramen
The positive energy was contagious as a friendly server showed us to our table, and we put in a drink order. I knew I had to start my visit with the wicked tamarind margarita. Served in a festive Dia de los Muertos skull vessel and garnished with an orange slice, blueberry, cherry, and fresh lime, the refreshing beverage combines Hotel California Blanco tequila, Grand Marnier, and fresh tamarind puree, complemented by a little spice from the Tajín rim.
Photos courtesy of Casa Azul
Chipotle chicken quesadilla
Vegan tacos
From Festivals to Farms, Scenic Trails and Pick-YourOwn; 100+ Ways To Explore Rhode Island During the Fall Season!
We snacked on fresh-made crunchy tortilla chips while we sipped. The house salsa and hot sauce, alongside warm cheese with a slight kick, made up a simple but yummy appetizer to prepare us for our main course. Ruelas shared, “Our vision is to transport our guests – through our food, beverage, and service – to Mexico City, to share our culture, art, flavors, and hospitality.”
This sentiment certainly resonated when
Photos courtesy of Casa Azul
Carnitas torta
our entrees came out. My friend enjoyed the birria ramen, a popular summer special that combines slow-cooked beef with Asian noodles. I had the other favorite, the birria tacos and consomé, featuring a trio of tacos filled with the tender beef tucked inside double-layered tortillas, which were soft with a slight crisp at the edges. Soaking the tacos in the consomé with a squeeze of lime drew out the deep, savory umami flavors.
2025! June 23 – August 22
The Dwares JCC team has been working hard to create the best Summer J-Camp experience for your child!
We provide a diverse and welcoming environment for all our campers with a new theme and corresponding activities every week. J-Camp is built on four pillars of JAMS: Judaism, Arts, Movement (athletics), and STEM.
In addition to our on-site programs, we have weekly field trips and specials guests! In the past, field trips included the zoo, local parks, museums and more.
We rounded off our visit with a couple of delectable desserts. I indulged in the churros and caramel, which were served warm with an almost buttery-soft center and a thick, crunchy exterior covered in cinnamon sugar. Next came the tres leches cake, an irresistible vanilla-flavored sponge cake baked with
cherries and blueberries. Decadent yet light, this treat was topped with whipped cream and drizzled with caramel.
Casa Azul Taquería 840 Allens Avenue 414-7799 • CasaAzulRI.com
Photos courtesy of Casa Azul
Tres leches cake
Savoring Rhody
Lobster ice cream, fancy hot dogs, and French flavors top August’s list
By Patty J
As a Rhode Island content creator, everywhere I go, people ask me for food and restaurant recommendations – whether on the street, by email, or DM. This month, my usual round-up features eight personal picks where you and yours must go from Ashaway to Newport and points in between!
Artisan Bites Cafe
This family owned business started with custom charcuterie boards and a dream, and recently branched out, opening a darling cafe on Park Avenue. Go for their huge coffee drink menu, stay for the cute interior, mouth-watering breakfast pastries, and lunch options like grilled cheese and salads. Cranston
Audette
Formerly Bouchard Inn, this new French restaurant from the team at Thames Street Kitchen and Mission Burger is getting rave reviews for classic dishes like poulet au pot, beef tartare, and onion soup, an elevated wine and cocktail list, cozy ambiance, and exceptional service. They even have caviar service. Newport
Debbie’s
This unassuming hot dog joint on Washington Street is courtesy of chef Ed Davis (formerly Birch and Oberlin). While mostly to-go with a few tables, this eatery named for Davis’ mom is supposed to be no-frills, but offerings like the V is for vichyssoise dog or asparagus salad might suggest otherwise. Providence
Photo (L) by Stacey Doyle, (L and R) courtesy of Patty J
Patty J on the summer beat
Artisan Bites
fred.
In Providence’s West End, discover creative cocktails, delish mocktails, unique wines, and delectable small plates – where Broadway Bistro used to be – from the same owners (also of The Slow Rhode). We loved the focaccia, glazed carrots, and cod fritters. Save room for handmade baked goods from Okai Sweets. Providence
Little Clam at Wayfinder Hotel
This new seafood restaurant from food scene luminaries Jake Rojas and Antonio Wormley (a JWU grad), is all about ingredients sourced from nearby fishermen and farmers. The coastal New England menu includes an oyster po’ boy as well as a raw bar with jumbo shrimp cocktail and little necks. Their LC cheeseburger is also quite yummy. Newport
Revive Coffee Co.
Our favorite vintage VW bus-turnedcoffee stop has new owners! Now helmed by a wife and husband who are also area teachers, Revive is buzzing again. You’ll find great coffee drinks (lattes are always a good idea), an expanded snack and baked goods selection, and friendly vibes. Ashaway
Dash away to Ashaway for Revive Coffee Co.
Digging in at Seaside Scoops
Seaside Scoops
We all scream for ice cream, but have you ever tried lobster ice cream? The first time I stumbled on it was at this family-owned shop in downtown Newport at the Brick Market a few weeks ago. It’s a brown-butter base with chunks of fresh lobster from none other than Newport Lobster Shack. Newport
“Received warning message –drivetrain malfunction– on Saturday for my 430i; called Tracy first thing Monday, she and Gerry had me come right in, performed diagnostics, and Gerry and I discussed results and made a game plan. That is service!”
Jay G , BMW 4 Series
Grilled Summer Swordfish
Sun-dried tomato butter complements this deceptively simple dish
By Maggie Mulvena Pearson
When it comes to grilling, not all fish can handle the heat. Some are too delicate for the grill, but not swordfish. Standing out with its firm and lean flesh, mild flavor, and dense steak- like texture, swordfish provides the perfect foundation for bold flavors. This vibrant and herbaceous sun- dried tomato compound butter was made for grilled swordfish. Due to the richness of the butter, I find that the swordfish pairs exceptionally well with simple grilled asparagus, or a refreshing side salad.
FIND RI SEAFOOD Swordfish season generally runs from June through October. To find the freshest catch while supporting local fishermen, click over to Seafood.RI.gov for maps and lists of retailers, wholesalers, and restaurants.
Photos courtesy of Maggie Pearson
Chef Maggie Mulvena Pearson
Photos by Kristin Teig
Excerpted from The Feast & Fettle Cookbook: Unlock the Secret to Better Home Cooking (c) 2024 by Maggie Mulvena Pearson, by permission of Countryman Press. Photography by Charity Burggraaf. All rights reserved.
• 4 center- cut swordfish steaks, about 6 ounces each, 1 inch thick
• 1 tablespoon avocado or sunflower oil, or any neutral oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1. To make the butter: Add all the ingredients to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat the mixture on medium-high speed until fully combined.
2. Scoop the butter onto a piece of parchment paper, forming a line about four-inches long, then wrap and roll into a log shape, twisting the ends to close.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing. The butter will last for up to a week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.
4. To prepare the fish: Dry the swordfish steaks well with paper towels. Place the swordfish steaks on a plate, brush both sides with the oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Allow the grill to preheat on mediumhigh for about 10 minutes. Clean and oil the grilling grate.
6. Place the swordfish steaks on the grill, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the fish releases easily from the grill. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reaches 130˚F for medium, 135˚F for medium-well, or 140˚F for well done.
7. Transfer the swordfish to a plate and place one ½-inch-thick slice of the sun- dried tomato butter on each piece. Serve once the butter is slightly melted over the fish.
NOTE: Ahi tuna, salmon, or mahi-mahi can be substituted for the swordfish steaks in this recipe, as these fish hold up well to the grill.
Food Trends: Welcoming New Faces and Spaces
A market opens, a restaurant is sold, and a horse trailer becomes a hot coffee bar
Neighborhood market and wine bar on Broadway shines
In a world of online commerce, be a Sawyer’s. This neighborhood market and wine bar opened mid-June, and has quickly garnered legions of besotted patrons. So what makes it special? Managing Partner Lydia Emmons shares, “Folks can pop in in the morning for a coffee, pastry, or housemade seasonal
parfait, join us at lunch for a quick sandwich or salad, or spend the early evening out on our sidewalk with a glass of wine and snack from the kitchen.” The market is stocked with basics but also what Emmons describes as “fun specialty items,” like linens and cookbooks. “We wouldn’t be able to do any of this
without all the partnerships,” she says listing Farm Fresh RI and a who’s who of local businesses including Hocus Pocus, Night Garden, Big Feeling Ice Cream, Black Leaf Tea, and Rhody Butcher. “We feel lucky to be part of this community.” 447 Broadway, Instagram: @shopsawyersmarket –Elyse Major
by
Photo
Nadia Eisa, courtesy of Sawyers
Sawyer’s
Track-down coffee to-go at this mobile trailer and cart
On any given morning, you might stumble upon a 1973 Kingston horse trailer parked at a library or parked somewhere in Providence or beyond. Step closer, and you’ll smell espresso, hear laughter, and meet Amy and Lee Sufi – the duo behind Maria Maria Mobile Coffee Bar, a traveling tribute to family, culture, and connection. “It’s been a dream for years,” says Lee. Named after both of their mothers, Maria Maria has grown from a parttime passion into a full-time operation, and what began with a few classic drinks now includes signature lattes like the Maria Maria, teddy graham, coffee milk, and s’mores. Sourcing locally is also part of their mission. They use New Harvest Coffee Roasters, drawn to the company’s ties to family farms in Colombia and Brazil. Their conchas, a pan dulce Amy grew up eating weekly, come from a Guatemalan bakery, another nod to heritage. Find where they’ll be parked next at MariaMariaCoffeeRI.com – Jenna Kaplan
New chapter for Mexican mainstay
If you live in Providence, there’s a good chance you’ve been to Tortilla Flats. For over 50 years, this welcoming watering hole has been serving up fresh Mexican and Southwestern dishes, bowls of chips, and refreshing libations from margaritas to mojitos, red and white wine sangrias, and beer, including eight varieties on tap. In late June, owners Joanne and Mat Vincent announced they planned to retire and had sold the restaurant to Kristin Sheehan, longtime bartender Ryan Larkin, and their business partner Guy Shaffer. Our first newsroom was located above the Flats and the small staff all had day jobs. That tiny newspaper grew to become the East Side Monthly , delivered to every address in 02906. In 2021, the magazine absorbed into this glossy sister publication. All of us at Providence Monthly raise a glass, wish everyone the best, and as the announcement reads, “let’s keep the tradition alive – and make it even better.” 255 Hope Street, TortillaFlatsRI.com –Elyse Major
Maria Maria
David Lawlor is an avid filmmaker and documentarian who lives in Providence, with an interest in telling the stories of places undergoing transformation and historic mill buildings.
Rhode Island’s Top Agents Choose Compass
We’re proud to celebrate the Compass Rhode Island agents recognized among the best in the business in the 2025 RealTrends Verified rankings. This honor highlights the top-performing real estate professionals across the country. From the coast to the capital, more of Rhode Island’s leading agents choose Compass than any other company.*
Congratulations to Alyce Wright, Ashley Fitzsimmons, Bob Bailey, Cynthia Moretti, Dan & Nicole Harding, Douglas Kohler, Eric Kirton, Friedman Group, James Hall, Kara Malkovich, Kevin Fox, Kira Greene, Kirk | Schryver Team, Larry Burns, Lisa Raposa, Lori Joyal, Newport Living Group, Nick Felicetti, Rebecca Mayer, Renee Welchman, Rosemary Tobin, Stephanie Basile Group, The Blackstone Team, The Local Group, The Modern Collective Group, and The Phipps Team!
