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CONTRIBUTORS
KEN ABRAMS
If you see longtime contributor and staff editor Ken Abrams out and about, wish him congratulations in his new role as managing editor. Abrams brings “Kenergy” to all he does, whether attending live music shows, writing, or taking photos. Listen to his roots/folk/rock radio show The Kingston Coffeehouse every Tuesday from 6-9pm on WRIU 90.3FM.
CAITLYN BAILEY
As a recent graduate of Salve Regina University, Caitlyn Bailey is excited to begin her editorial career, and enjoyed digging into work on this year’s Summer Bucket List – back when it was still 30 degrees outside. Bailey plans to spend her summer in the City by the Sea, soaking up sunshine and checking out many of the events she wrote about.
ABBIE LAHMERS
Since joining our team in 2019 and quickly ascending to managing editor in 2021, Abbie Lahmers has been an integral part of the small-but-mighty production team at Hey Rhody Media Co. After this issue, she will transition to contributing writer to focus her time uplifting environmental and science journalism with URI’s Metcalf Institute. Find her talents throughout this entire issue.
ERIN MCGINN
Warwick-based photographer Erin McGinn has built a stunning portfolio, capturing “moments of delight” inspired by the warmth of film, and she’s also a writer. This month, she shares about her visit – in both words and photography – to a unique business that mixes art with energy healing. Read “Creative Energy” on page A28. Check out her new website: ErinMcGinn.com.
NEWS & CULTURE
Art | Op-Ed | Rhody Gem | The Public’s Radio | Calendar | Neighborhood News
Daisy Explains It All
A Tony-award winning actor on moving to Rhody and podcasting about mysteries of the unknown
By Andrea E. McHugh
aisy Eagan knows what it’s like living in the spotlight. She’s the youngest actress ever to win a Tony Award, nabbing Best Featured Actress award for her portrayal as Mary in The Secret Garden on Broadway in 1991 when she was just 11. An acting career with appearances on more than a dozen TV shows, including The Mentalist , Good Trouble , and Girls , followed, having her bounce back between New York City and LA for years, but when she became a trailblazer behind the microphone of her wildly popular podcast, Strange and Unexplained , she was able to work from anywhere. Tired of the demands, high cost of living, and environmental threats of California living, Eagan sat down with her husband early in the pandemic to decide where they wanted to start a new chapter, and the answer was clear: Rhode Island.
“We were back in LA and the pandemic happened, and we were stuck in this tiny, little two-bedroom in the Valley, and we looked at the fire map, and the entire state was on fire and running out of water,” she recalls. “Our son was eight or nine at the time, and we just thought, if we stay here, we’re not
going to have anything to leave to him.” Eagan says nothing was off the table. “We really looked at the entire globe, and asked, where would we go if we could go anywhere?” she explains. Once they decided to stay stateside, they weighed a number of different factors. “It was a confluence of politics, affordability,
climate, food, and queer culture,” she says. While she concedes she missed the sheer breadth of culinary diversity found in her former home cities, she’s been relishing in Rhode Island living. “Last night, I was washing dishes, and my husband and my son were out in the backyard, playing badminton without a
Photos courtesy of Daisy Eagan
Eagan makes her home in West Warwick
net, and I was like, this was on the vision board in my head of being able to stand at my sink and look out and see my family and my dogs in my backyard,” Eagan muses.
When it came to podcasting, Eagan was already sprinting when the rest were just lacing up. Her debut series, Strange and Unexplained with Daisy Eagan, launched in early 2021, quickly luring listeners for each episode’s deep dive into curious incidents ranging from scary and scintillating to the really weird and just plain macabre. A closer look at what really happened to Amelia Earhart, UFO encounters, Bigfoot, the infamous Cecil Hotel, crop circles, the Loch Ness Monster, Jack the Ripper and his victims, are just some topics she’s covered, as well as taking a closer look at missing persons cases, unsolved murders, weather phenomena, and interviews with people in the “strange and unexplained” stratosphere. Since its inception, the podcast series has amassed more than 30 million listens. The fifth season drops on June 5th.
Capitalizing on her podcasting success, Eagan added two more shows to her repertoire: a show recapping hit reality series Love is Blind with co-host actress/singer and well-known podcaster, Ellyn Marsh, and Dear Daisy , an advice show. At the end of last year, Eagan joined Pulitzer Prize winners Amber Hunt and Amanda Rossmann to launch Grab Bag Collab, a podcast network that defies convention by allowing their creators to keep ownership of their shows. While it may seem like every celebrity, reality star, and everyday Janes have a podcast these days, Eagan says the medium is here to stay. “I think that’s important in any art that you make – people will listen, and you can still do it independently. It’s a ton of work, but it’s still possible.” But “independently” doesn’t mean alone. Eagan says making a podcast is much more challenging than it may seem, from research and writing to scripts, recording, and editing. With her new network, she, along with her partners, are making the platform more widely accessible. “I think a beautiful thing about Grab Bag, part of our philosophy is, you shouldn’t have to do things by yourself. We should have community, and we should have support.”
Season 5 of Eagan’s podcast drops June 5
Photos courtesy of Daisy Eagan
Op-Ed: The Hand That Feeds Doesn’t Like to Get Bit
Colleges and universities under threat
By Barry Fain and Steven Triedman
If you overreact with hysteria every time President Trump opens his mouth, you’ll have to double your Prozac prescription on a regular basis. The healthier approach is to give it a few days and see if it has legs or if it goes away.
In a recent fight with liberal colleges and universities over antisemitism, the President floated the idea of freezing the federal grants and removing their tax-exempt status, and rather than ignore this bluster and positioning, he had our full attention, considering Providence’s precarious financial position. As we go to press, it still hasn’t gone away.
Colleges and universities are run as businesses, but as “non-profit” businesses that receive tremendous economic incentives and value that no tax-paying business can match. This is nothing new and has allowed college endowments, land holdings, and ventures across the country to grow exponentially, unlike a tax-paying business. The tax exemptions for these non-profits dates back to the Tariff Act of 1894 and the Revenue Act of 1909, which granted exemption
to “any corporation or association organized and operated exclusively for religious, charitable, or educational purposes.”
This has allowed institutions like Brown University to significantly overpay to acquire properties in Providence, for example, because of the long-term value of not paying property, sales or income taxes. This has enabled expansion on both sides of the river in Providence.
Before World War II, the federal government had a very limited role in supporting research at colleges and universities. Research support came from philanthropic endowments or funding from private companies. There was usually a vested interest involved.
The Manhattan Project to create the atomic bomb showed the importance of federal investment in scientific research and development. Over two dozen universities, numerous companies, and over 125,000 people worked on the project. As the war was ending, President Franklin D. Roosevelt saw the need for continued investment in science and technology to maintain national security, which led
to the military-industrial complex (MIC).
At the same time, the head of the Office of Scientific Research and Development advocated for the establishment of a civilian research organization to support scientific advancement. His report, “Science – The Endless Frontier,” was the blueprint for federal support for basic research and education and led to the creation of the National Science Foundation, an independent agency to support research and education in science and engineering to ensure that the United States remained at the forefront of scientific innovation.
Universities took the money. They built the best labs and hired leading professors and scientists, attracting the best and brightest students from around the world.
In 1980, a bipartisan Congress changed the law to transfer patent rights for federally funded research to the universities where they were developed. This allowed universities to profit from licensing the innovations created in their labs, notably in biomedicine, computer science, and engineering. It has proven to be a lucrative
P hoto by Savannah Barkley
Brown University
law for them, and the pump continues to be primed with the federal government pumping in $60 billion into these programs last year!
We now have a system where many universities are beholden to the whims of politicians in Washington, but the loss of this funding would cripple vital research that future generations will need. Last year, in addition to their tax savings, Brown also received $256 million in research grants from the government. In fairness, Brown does generate a tremendous amount of economic activity locally for these activities, but the city doesn’t actually benefit to the extent that it should except from the payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) payments that the state sets, which are not as generous as they should be.
The President is looking to challenge this designation, arguing that colleges and universities like Brown and other elite institutions are “indoctrinating” their students with “radical left” ideas, rather than educating them. While this argument is impossible to support with data, there is enough to politicize the issue. Meanwhile, this incredibly vital collaboration between the private and public sectors remains at risk – the loss of which would be catastrophic.
The good news is that it’s highly unlikely that this would happen as the only precedent is the 1983 Supreme Court ruling that the IRS could deny tax-exempt status to Bob Jones University, a private Christian university because it banned interracial dating and marriage on campus, and Goldsboro Christian Schools, which employed racially discriminatory admissions policies. There are also other schools, notably Hillsdale College, that maintain their independence by not taking any federal grants.
So as Brown scurries to line up its academic ducks to placate the President, we’d suggest they do the same in terms of fair funding the City and encouraging them to live harmoniously with their off-campus neighbors. It’s times like these when you need all the friends you can get.
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 Editorial@heyrhody.com.
Co-Managing
As a wealth advisor and a former clinical psychologist, I’ve always believed that true financial well-being is about more than just dollars and cents. It’s about creating a life that feels balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling in all areas.
One of my favorite tools to support this mindset is the Wheel of Life—a simple yet powerful visual that helps you take stock of key areas like career, finances, health, relationships, and personal growth. When one area is out of sync, it often impacts the rest. Seeing it all in one place can be eyeopening—and it can help guide intentional, positive changes.
Lately, one of those changes for me has been picking up a new hobby: pickleball
I’ll be honest, I started out knowing absolutely nothing about the sport or the people who played it. But I felt the need to get out of my comfort zone, to do something for myself that might check a few boxes: physical activity, stress relief, and maybe even some new social connections.
I call it “acting as if”—a concept I often share with clients. You act as if you belong, as if you know what you’re doing... until, eventually, you do. That mindset helped me show up to that first game. And now? I’m hooked.
Beyond the court, it’s been transformative. I’ve built new friendships, found a great stress outlet, and rediscovered a sense of childhood fun and the joy of learning something new. I even found an app— Pickleheads—that connects players and games wherever I go. It’s created a sense of instant community, which, let’s face it, can be hard to come by as adults.
This experience reminded me just how powerful it is when we invest in all aspects of our lives—not just financially. Pickleball has brought joy, health, connection, and growth into my life. That’s what the Wheel of Life is all about—spotting the areas that need attention and nurturing them with purpose.
As you reflect on your own goals and financial plan, I encourage you to think holistically. What fills your cup outside of work and responsibilities? What’s your “pickleball”?
If you’re curious about trying the Wheel of Life for yourself, I’d be happy to walk through it with you. Sometimes, small steps in one area can bring meaningful balance to everything else.
Let’s keep building a life that feels as good as it looks on paper.
CARMEN GRINKIS, PHD, CLTC, CLU®, CFP®
Orange Anchor Art School
Classes, workshops, camps
What it is:
A small, female-owned boutique art studio that offers after-school art classes, adult art workshops, family art experiences, and summer camps.
Where to find it:
Located in the Pawtuxet Village Square in Cranston. Look for the sign with the clock that reads Pawtuxet Village Shoppes on the corner of Aborn and Broad streets.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
Orange Anchor is more than just an art school – it’s a space where creativity and education thrive. Heather Rigney, the owner and instructor, is dedicated to sparking the same passion and excitement for art in her students that she feels herself. “My little school is a place where every human being, no matter their age or skill level, can learn to unlock their creative potential,” she says. “I believe that everyone has a story to tell and something to say. The visual arts allow human beings the opportunity to express who they are, where they came from, and what they aspire to bring to our world.” Her lessons are designed to engage students in every aspect of the artistic process. Whether it’s painting, drawing, printmaking, or sculpture, Rigney ensures her students will not only explore new techniques but also experience the joy of creating and observing art in a safe and welcoming environment. Each class leaves students feeling energized from discovering new skills, artists, and materials — all while making new friends.
Orange Anchor Art School
2190 Broad Street, Unit #12, Cranston OrangeAnchorArtSchool.com @orangeanchorartschool
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
by Bobbi Insisiengmay, Inks Of God, LLC., courtesy of Heather Rigney
Remembering The Mad Peck
The eccentric artist behind iconic Providence poster
In partnership with The Public’s Radio • ThePublicsRadio.org •
By
Luis Hernandez and Ben Berke
One of the most iconic pieces of artwork associated with Providence is a black and white poster with comic book panels that makes the city look like a film noir. Some people know it’s text by heart, which ends with a classic line: “Rich folks live on Power Street, but most of us live off Hope.” The man who designed the poster, John Peck, recently passed away at the age of 83. The Public’s Radio ’s Ben Berke profiled The Mad Peck almost 10 years ago for the Providence Journal . Morning host Luis Hernandez talked with Berke about the eccentric poster artist, comic book historian, culture critic, and disc jockey.
LUIS HERNANDEZ: Ben, how did you meet The Mad Peck?
BEN BERKE: I was looking at the poster one day and I saw the little copyright mark on the bottom that said, “Copyright, The Mad Peck.” I just thought, “This poster is so brilliant. Who is this person?” I Googled the words, The Mad Peck, and I found a website that had an email address on it, and I sent an email. I think I put my phone number in the email, and I woke up the next morning to a phone call from him and he was like, “Yeah, sure you wanna meet? Like, come on over.” He gave me an address. It was on America Street on Federal Hill, and I remember walking up and down the street.
HERNANDEZ: What did he say about the legacy of the poster?
BERKE: The Providence poster, he loved it so much. I mean, he really sold it as something that almost anybody could buy. He wanted it at a reasonable price point so that it would spread throughout the city. You can, to this day, buy the poster at a place like Frog and Toad.
HERNANDEZ: What did he say to you about the way people approach that poster today? I’d imagine there are people who have it and they may not even know who the artist is.
BERKE: He had kind of a funny relationship to the very small amount of fame and notoriety he got from that poster. I think he both enjoyed the attention if it was coming from somebody that he felt was maybe smart enough to see the whole shtick he was doing in every aspect of his art. But if somebody wanted to just snap a picture of him to put it up on social media, he was very hostile. I think he, at one point, dismantled a gallery show of his artwork because of some slight or something that he detected. But I think he also was yearning to be understood in a deeper way. I think he also feared that the popularity of the poster made him seem like a one-hit wonder, when he had produced quite a lot of work as a young man that was also very clever and related to the comic book idiom.
HERNANDEZ: Obviously, I’m someone who’s only been here for a little while, but I look at the poster and I’m wondering to myself, it’s 47 years, almost 50 years ago. I’m wondering how true is it still to this day?
BERKE: Friendship is still a one-way street. Power Street, the houses still look pretty nice. I mean, Hope Street’s getting more expensive, but, you know, I think that’s still a place a lot of working class folks live on or near.
HERNANDEZ: Reading up on his life, one of the things I found interesting was that, in that era in the 70s and 80s, there’s this counterculture that really was happening here. How does he feel about what that era was like and how it shaped him?
BERKE: He was in it. He was selling rock posters. He was selling rock T-shirts. He was selling comic book reviews of rock albums to Rolling Stone and Creem and all the famous magazines of that era. So he was part of the counterculture, but he was also one of those people that I think prefers to have a skeptical view of trends and fashions and society. He was countercultural and I think he started to see that there was a new form of cultural orthodoxy taking place as people started to adhere to this new norm of being a hippie. And
he started to see that that could be a little silly and normative in this new way.
HERNANDEZ: Ben, how do you think he would want to be remembered?
BERKE: I think he’d wanna be remembered through his work. He was never really that hungry to be written about. He refused to be photographed ever, so he definitely wouldn’t wanna be remembered by a photograph. His work was brilliant and I think, like so many artists, that was the most comfortable way he knew how to interface with the world. He left a lot of good work behind so I’d say he’d want you to go find his stuff and read it.
This article has been edited for length and style, and was originally posted on March 31, 2025. Reach Luis Hernandez at lhernandez@ripr.org; Ben Berke at bberke@ripr.org
Frog & Toad in Providence is one of the places where you can still find this iconic poster by The Mad Peck
Photo courtesy of The Public’s Radio
The Must List
10 essential events this month
Through June 29: Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky tells the compelling story of four friends living through the creative revolution of the Harlem Renaissance, followed by the hardships of the Great Depression. TrinityRep.com
June 7-8: The Rhode Island Anime Con welcomes fans and top anime artists from around the world for a weekend of fun, with cosplay meetups, interactive gaming, and celebrity autograph and photo opportunities at the Rhode Island Convention Center. RIAnimeCon.com
June 7-8: The Rhode Island Day of Portugal celebrates Portuguese-American heritage with a parade from the State House, and additional events at 195 District Park as well as other locations around the state. Facebook: RI Day Of Portugal
June 7: The third annual Providence Porchfest features dozens of local musicians, including Mark Cutler, Beth Barron, and Olivia Dolphin, performing for free on front lawns, driveways, and porches across the East Side. ProvidencePorchfest.com
June 10-15: Winner of the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Back to the Future is the stage adaptation of the beloved film series and includes classic songs like “Earth Angel,” “Back in Time,” and “The Power of Love.” PPACRI.org
June 14: Providence Animal Rescue League’s inaugural Paws & Listen Festival at The Guild is an afternoon that brings together music, storytelling, and adoptable pets, with American Idol Lee DeWyze, Lainey Dionne, Alison Rose, and more! Pawtucket, PARL.org
June 15: With over a dozen albums to his credit, singer-songwriter Mason Jennings brings passionate lyrics and warm melodies to Alchemy, including songs from his recent album Underneath The Roses . Awardwinning local singer Jake Hunsinger opens. AlchemyRI.net
Through June 15: The Grammy and Tony Award-winning musical American Idiot captures the spirit of a generation, featuring the combative lyrics and highenergy sounds of Green Day to the stage. TheWilburyGroup.org
June 16-20: The AMP hosts the USA Gymnastics Championships , a major national sporting event with past champions, Olympians, and future stars competing to determine who will make the national team at the upcoming world championships. USAGymChamps.com
June 22: Juneteenth RI , commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, returns to the Temple to Music at Roger Williams Park for a day of celebration with inspiring speakers, live music, and more. JuneteenthRI.com
New Englanders know not to take matters of the roof lightly – which is why so many clients turn to RoofMasters . Their team of experts holds the highest credentials in the industry, and they ensure you get the best-quality products and craftmanship. Whether seeking repairs or a full replacement, the family- and veteran-owned Smithfield company has built not only countless residential and commercial roofing projects, but also a reputation of unrivaled client satisfaction.
From thorough inspections to devising an accurate assessment of the work that needs to be done, owner Rich McKenna emphasizes the importance of communication throughout the process. “We don’t just tell you what you need – we listen to your thoughts and concerns,” he says. “Each project requires thought and communication so we can provide the proper system and answers for your project.”
RoofMasters is among 1 percent of all roofers in the country to hold GAF Master Elite and GAF Presidents Club credentials, and they offer some of the best warranties in the industry, backed by the manufacturers. Watch for their new office opening soon in Griswold, Connecticut, as the company expands to serve even more happy clients. “We are masters at what we do – we do this every shingle day.”
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
The West End’s beloved garden tour returns
The West Broadway Neighborhood Association’s (WBNA) Annual Garden Stroll is back and blooming on June 21 from 10am to 1pm, and it’s one of the neighborhood’s most cherished traditions. This summer event invites neighbors to step behind the gates and fences of local gardens –ranging from tiny, flower-filled pockets to lush backyard escapes – and appreciate the beauty, creativity, and green-thumb dedication of fellow community members.
Garden strollers can kick off their day at WBNA Headquarters (1560 Westminster Street), where free maps of participating gardens will be available. From there, attendees are free to explore at their own pace and discover plots of greenery that are normally closed to the public throughout the neighborhood. In addition to the self-guided stroll, WBNA HQ will host a variety of informational booths focused on gardening and environmental topics, along with engaging workshops perfect for all levels of plant enthusiasts. Neighborhood businesses are also getting in on the fun, offering special deals and items just for Garden Stroll participants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, an aspiring plant parent, or simply looking for a peaceful Saturday morning activity, the Garden Stroll is a beautiful way to connect with neighbors and get inspired. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate community, creativity, and the joy of growing green together!
Mile of History preservation work and spring event
The Mile of History’s (MoHA) Spring Event will be held in the garden of the historic Thomas F. Hoppin House (383 Benefit Street) on Sunday, June 8 at 5pm. Hoppin House is an elaborate example of an Italianate palazzo-style residence. The Library of Congress called the property “one of the largest and most elegant houses built in Providence in the mid-19th century.” Food and drink will be served, and all who are interested in Providence’s Mile of History are welcome.
Representatives of MoHA joined other community members in a meeting concerning the proposed development of the historic Captain George Benson House property at the corner of Prospect and Angell streets. Working with the developer, the meeting addressed concerns raised at a recent meeting with the Historic Development Commission.
Summit neighbors step into summer with new trees and board members
About 40 neighbors joined the Summit Neighborhood Association (SNA) for its annual meeting on April 28 at The Highlands, where attendees heard presentations and had the opportunity to ask questions to local elected officials. The annual election of SNA Board officers and members also took place; several officers and board members will remain for another year, and the board welcomed newcomers Eric Giordano, Rebecca Kidwell, and Daniel J. Morris. SNA also extends its gratitude to Mayor Brett Smiley, Representative Rebecca Kislak, Councilor Sue AnderBois, and Mount Hope Community Center executive director, Helen Baskerville-Dukes, for being a part of the event. Sandwich Hut donated sandwiches, and Not Just Snacks provided samosas.
On a rainy Saturday in April, Summit and Mount Hope neighbors came together to plant 10 trees and pick up trash around the neighborhoods. This tree planting wouldn’t have been possible without community support. Former SNA vice president Emily Kloeblen helped organize the event, with Providence Neighborhood Planting Program and City Forestry prepping sites, selecting appropriate trees, and teaching neighbors how to plant, with Garden Time Canopy Crew joining. Lieutenant Brown and the Providence Police Department helped keep participants safe on Cypress Street by diverting traffic, Councilor Sue AnderBois awarded the grant to support tree care, Hope Street Merchant Association offered volunteers a free coffee and pastry from Seven Stars Bakery, and Stephan Rodriguez helped coordinate trash clean-up supplies with the city.
The historic Thomas F. Hoppin House
Providence Neighborhood Associations
BLACKSTONE PARKS CONSERVANCY
Jane Peterson
P.O. Box 603141
Providence, RI 02906
401-270-3014
BlackstoneParks@gmail.com
BlackstoneParksConservancy.org
COLLEGE HILL
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Rick Champagne
P.O. Box 2442
Providence, RI 02906
CHNA@chnaprovidence.org
CHNAProvidence.org
DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Kristin McGinn, President 401-580-2628
Facebook: Downtown Providence Neighborhood Association
IG: @DNAPVD
Email: DNAPVD@gmail.com
ELMWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Jen Vincent
JenniferDaltonVincent@gmail.com
Facebook: Elmwood Neighborhood Association PVD
FOX POINT
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 2315
Providence, RI 02906
FoxPointNeighborhood@gmail.com FPNA.net
JEWELRY DISTRICT ASSOCIATION
Sharon Steele
Sharon@sharonsteele.com JewelryDistrict.org
Facebook: Jewelry District Association Providence, RI
MILE OF HISTORY ASSOCIATION
Charles Hewitt, Secretary
C/O One Governor Street, Providence
MOUNT HOPE COMMUNITY CENTER
401-521-8830
MHNAInc@gmail.com
Facebook: Mount Hope Neighborhood Association, Inc.
NORTH END NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
Alice Gorman and Deborah Rodriquez Castillo Info@nenapvd.org
1560 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02909 401-831-9344
WBNA@wbna.org • WBNA.org
Photo courtesy of GoProvidence
Beach Bucket List 2025
How to Use This Guide:
ACROSS RHODY ALL SUMMER LONG : Page A2
PROVIDENCE: Page A6
NORTHERN RHODY: Page A7
EAST BAY & NEWPORT: Page A10
BY ELYSE MAJOR
ACTIVITIES TO MAKE THE MOST OF A RHODY SUMMER
On your mark, get set, summer! The season we’ve been waiting for is here, and across the Ocean State, organizers are ready for it with activities planned to keep folks having fun in the sun – and after dark, too – from June through Labor Day. This annual comprehensive guide known as the Beach Bucket List is the culmination of research from various places to provide our readers with a singular source to plan the best summer ever.
EDITOR’S NOTE: As this issue goes to press in May, some information is not yet available and may be missing. Also, as many events are weatherdependent, please always check with host venues before heading out to avoid disappointment. If we missed your favorite, please let us know by emailing Marketing@HeyRhody.com. Show us your summer fun by tagging #heyrhodyphotos on Instagram!
Listings are divided into sections by region, starting with recurring events, and followed by dates and descriptions from June to Labor Day.
CENTRAL RHODY: Page A12
SOUTHERN RHODY: Page A14
BLOCK ISLAND: Page A16
PRIDE: Page A16
Newport Folk
ACROSS RHODY, ALL SUMMER LONG
Organized by category, ongoing activities are sure to have you driving from Woonsocket to Westerly to Warren and every spot in between.
ART & CULTURE
Art Gallery Visit: Rainy or hot days were made for art galleries. A statewide sampling includes Dryden Gallery, North Providence; Four Corners Gallery, Tiverton; the galleries at Providence Art Club; Hera Gallery, Wakefield; and Spring Bull Studio & Gallery, Newport, just to name a few. Arts.RI.gov/galleriespublic-art
Block Island Art Trail: Grab a map and take a self-guided tour of galleries, studios, shops, and more of where to view and buy work from local artists. Find at locations or download. SpringStreetGallery.com
Concerts on the Beach: North Beach Clubhouse is the stage for acts on select dates from June 30-August 25. Dance on the sand to the sounds of Roomful of Blues, Mark Cutler & the Electric Tiny String Band, and more. NarragansettRI.gov
Gazebo Summer Concert Series: This popular series has a line-up of acts ready to roll, including local faves like Take It To The Bridge, Jesse Liam, and more. Select dates June 6-August 29. NarragansettRI.gov
Mural Tour: Embark on a self-guided tour of the Creative Capital’s murals via map or app! Providence, TheAvenueConcept.org
Music in the Garden: Providence Preservation Society and Mile of History Association host concerts on the lawn at Shakespeare’s Head. Providence, PPSRI.org
Ocean House Author Series: Enjoy stimulating chats and refreshments at the breathtaking resort with an ongoing calendar of conversations, moderated by Rhody Reads contributor and best-selling author Deborah Goodrich Royce. July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, August 6, August 13, August 20, August 27. Find details in this month’s column. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
Summer Beats: Billed as a “celebration of global music,” FirstWorks presents a series
Theater
of four free concerts June through August at various locations including Roger Williams Park and Jenks Park in Central Falls. FirstWorks.org
Theatre By The Sea: Four musicals will be staged this summer at Bill Hanney’s historic barn theater. Performances are six days a week, all boasting Broadway-caliber casts. Pre-game shows at Bistro By The Sea and at the garden gazebo bar. Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com
FAMILY FUN
Full Moon Bike Rides: Newport is the location for monthly 15-mile rides on scenic roads and coastline. June 11: Strawberry Moon; July 10: Buck Moon; August 9: Sturgeon Moon. Weather-dependent. BikeNewportRI.org
Glass Float Project: Search outdoor locations on Block Island for beautiful glass
balls made by Eben Horten; finds are yours to keep but please register to help keep track, and consider making a donation to keep the ball rolling. GlassFloatProject.com
Main Street Strolls: Visit East Greenwich for monthly themed strolls, including dogs, art, music, and food, with local businesses bringing their wares outside for a day of shopping and festivities. Dates to be announced. EastGreenwichChamber.com
Providence Grays: Catch baseball fever with this historic club that takes its playbook from the 19th century. Games are held locally in East Providence, Warwick, and across the East Coast. ProvidenceGrays.com
Return of the Dinosaurs: Journey back in time to witness awe-inspiring creatures just a step away! Adventure, discovery, and dinosaurs await at the Roger Williams Park Zoo exhibit. Through August 10. RWPZoo.org
Photo by Tandem, courtesy of South County Tourism Council
United
14 THEATERS TO CHECK OUT
BURBAGE THEATRE COMPANY
Pawtucket
CONTEMPORARY THEATER COMPANY
Wakefield
COURTHOUSE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
West Kingston
THE GAMM THEATRE
Warwick
GRANITE THEATRE
Westerly
THE GREENWICH ODEUM
East Greenwich
PROVIDENCE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
RHODE ISLAND STATE ENSEMBLE
Burrillville
TEATRO ECAS THEATER
Providence
THEATRE BY THE SEA
Wakefield
TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY
Providence
STADIUM THEATRE
Woonsocket
THE UNITED THEATRE
Westerly
THE WILBURY THEATRE GROUP
Providence
River Cruises and Nature & Heritage Tours: Get schooled in the Blackstone Valley’s natural history aboard a scenic cruise for 50-minute boat tours Saturdays and Sundays. Central Falls, RiverTourBlackstone.com
Summer Bike Rides: Discover the state by bike with the RI Northeast Mountain Biking Association, through woodsy trails off the beaten path and routes ranging from easy rides to challenging technical ones. RINEMBA.org
HISTORY
Talks and Teas: Smith’s Castle hosts a variety of programming, including their Lecture on the Lawn author talks and Tea and History and Breakfast Talks, both with a roster of engaging topics. North Kingstown, SmithsCastle.org
Lectures and Exhibitions: The Rhode Island Historical Society, including the house-museums and centers under its supervision, hosts seasonal events for the whole family to learn about the state’s past and present. Woonsocket & Providence, RIHS.org
Life on the Farm: Bring the whole family to visit the Coggeshall Farm Museum and travel back to a more rustic time, with summer programming for the kids, reenactments, and more. Bristol, CoggeshallFarm.org
MOVIES
Misquamicut Drive-In: Skip the streaming, pack the car, and head to Wuskenau Beach to view blockbusters on the big outdoor screen. Vehicle too small? Camping chairs permitted. Misquamicut, MBADriveIn.com
Pirates in the Park Outdoor Film Series: Paired with Food Truck Fridays at Roger Williams Park, see themed movies screened at sunset at Boat House Lawn. Instagram: @pvdfilmfestival
Rustic Tri View Drive In: Get off the couch and pack the family into the car to enjoy a double feature at Little Rhody’s last drive-in theater. A walk to the concessions stand for a cheap dinner or snacks is part of the fun. North Smithfield, Facebook: Rustic Tri View Drive In
OUTDOOR MARKETS & ACTIVITIES
Farmers Markets: Make shopping fresh and local a breeze at one of the many farmers markets in Rhode Island. A statewide sampling includes farm-hosted events that include Casey Farm in Saunderstown and Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, along with the Tiverton Farmers Market, South Kingstown Farmers Market Tuesdays at Marina Park, and many more. Various, FarmFreshRI.org
RI Farm Scavenger Hunt: The RI Farm Bureau encourages finding new farms with
this activity that has participants exploring the state. The map changes every year to keep things as fresh as June strawberries! RIFB.org
RI Walks Challenge: Hit trails across the state to find 30+ whimsical nature-inspired steel creatures posted in the woods, and track your progress by scanning QR codes on each. Find them all to win prizes! RIWalks.org
Morning Bird Walks: Each week a new birding destination will be chosen, led by a naturalist. Advance registration is required and location will be sent via email to registered participants in advance. Various locations, ASRI.org
Weekend Goat Hikes at Gather Farm: Goat hikes start with meeting the herd at the goat greenhouse and then being led by Aidan Simmons, who shares goat facts, stories, and more. Johnston, GatherFarm.com
WORKSHOPS
Craft yourself a cool decor accent this summer by taking a glass blowing or steel workshop.
• Blackstone River Glass Center, Cumberland
• Gather Glass, Providence
• The Glass Station, South Kingstown
• Thames Glass, Newport
• The Steel Yard, Providence
Photo by Christine Chitnis
Hope Street Farmers Market
PROVIDENCE
ALL SUMMER LONG
SUNDAYS
Flea in the Park: If you’re looking for unique gifts and beautiful artwork with a side of food and fun, don’t miss this summertime version of Providence Flea as it takes over 195 District Park, Sundays from 11am-3pm. ProvidenceFlea.com
TUESDAYS
Sunset Celebration with the Providence Drum Troupe: Head to the 195 District Park (begins 6:30pm) for a rousing two hours of illuminated mobile drummers, dancers, artists, and circus performers. Participation encouraged! DowntownParks.org
THURSDAYS
Gallery Night: Third Thursdays, take a deep dive into the Creative Capital’s art scene with guided tours to studios, galleries, and museums throughout the city via walking and mini coaches or trolleys. Providence, GalleryNight.org
Movies on the Block: Bring a blanket or chair and head to Grant’s Black at 260
Westminster Street, for the monthly movie series featuring fave films. Special concessions will be available from downtown restaurants. Starts at dusk. June 26, July 24, August 28. InDowncity.com
FRIDAYS
Food Truck Fridays: Celebrate TGIF with dinner from a rotation of food trucks at RWP Carousel Village, plus beer and wine, live music, and kiddie train rides, too. Providence, RWPZoo.org
FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY
Weekend Ice Cream Making Classes at Gather Cafe: Learn to craft your dream ice cream flavor at the newly opened Gather Cafe and Ice Cream Bar (next to Gather Glass) using fresh ingredients sourced directly from Gather Farm – one hour and one pint. GatherFarm.com
SATURDAYS
Providence Artisans Market: For over a dozen years, shoppers have found handmade crafts, fresh produce, food trucks, and live music with this artist-run market at Lippitt Park. Facebook: Providence Artisans Market
JUNE
JUNE 7
Providence Porchfest: This volunteerled community music fest features acts in a variety of genres playing free shows on porches, driveways, and lawns, happening rain or shine. ProvidencePorchFest.com
JUNE 7-8
Rhode Island Anime Con: Cosplay, photo ops, autographs, and more await at this unique extravaganza held at the RI Convention Center . RIAnimeCon.com
Rhode Island Day of Portugal:
195 District Park is the setting for this year’s Dia de Portugal. Since 1978, the cultural celebration has featured a parade, music, and plenty of Portuguese food. DowntownParks.org
JUNE 22
Juneteenth: The Temple to Music at Roger Williams Park provides the setting for inspiring speakers, live music, and more to commemorate the end of slavery in the US. JuneteenthRI.com
JUNE 27-29
Providence 48 Hour Film Project: On your marker! Script, shoot, and edit a short film after receiving directives, and have it screened – all in one weekend. 48HourFilm.com
JULY
JULY 2
Fourth of July Fireworks Boat Rides: Embark on a casual cruise of the downtown waterways before heading out to India Point to anchor in the harbor for the city’s fireworks display. ProvidenceRiverboat.com
JULY 6-19
Providence Restaurant Weeks: Savor two weeks of participating area restaurants featuring deals and specials for lunch and dinner, with some offering prix fixe menus, breakfast, signature cocktails, and more. GoProvidence.com/rw
Juneteenth RI Festival
Photo by Justincase Photography, courtesy of Juneteenth RI
WATERFIRE PROVIDENCE
Don’t miss the award-winning spectacle along the rivers of downtown that has captured the imagination of over 10 million visitors.
BASIN & PARTIAL LIGHTINGS: June 19, August 18
FULL LIGHTINGS: July 4, August 9 STARTS AT SUNSET: July 17
Learn more at WaterFire.org
JULY 13-26
FringePVD: Revel in this crosssection of entertainment presented by The Wilbury Theatre Group. With over 300 performing artists, enjoy uncensored performances of theater, dance, visual arts, and more. FringePVD.org
JULY 14-19
Narragansett Shark Week: Crush it like Quint during this week of events celebrating the movie JAWS . Partake in everything from a lookalike contest and trivia to riding a mechanical shark, a movie marathon, and more. NarragansettBeer.com
JULY 17
Back to the Eighties Show with Jessie’s Girl: Part of the Cool Summer Nights Series, head to Providence Performing Arts Center to party like it’s 1989. Eighties attire encouraged! PPACRI.org
AUGUST
AUGUST 5-10
Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival: RIFF returns for its 29th year to continue its celebration of independent filmmakers from around the world. FilmFreeway.com/RIFilmFest
AUGUST 6
Summer Pops: Remember TV theme songs? Conductor Troy Quinn invites audiences to an evening of orchestral versions of tunes from Star Trek , Jeopardy , Hawaii Five-O , and more. Facebook: RWP Pops at Roger Williams Park
AUGUST 23
Brew at the Zoo: Sample hundreds of beers and libations from local, regional, and national breweries at Rhode Island’s largest outdoor beer festival. This adultsonly event includes live music, animal encounters, and more. RWPZoo.org
NORTHERN RHODY
ALL SUMMER LONG
SUNDAYS
Assembly of Food Trucks: On select dates, enjoy “good eats, beats, and beer” against the backdrop of the Nipmuc River. BYO picnic blankets and chairs. June 29, July 27, August 24. Harrisville, FoodTrucksIn.com
Summer Farmers Market: Phantom Farms is the place to be from 9am-1pm for this first-ever farmers market at that location. Shop unique local products, handcrafted goods, and fresh produce. June 1-August 31. Cumberland, Facebook: Phantom Farms Summer Farmers Market
TUESDAYS
Slater Park Children’s Performance Series: On select Tuesdays, make memories watching kiddie entertainers live. Pawtucket, Facebook: Pawtucket Parks & Recreation
WEDNESDAYS
Foster Fairgrounds Food Truck Night Event Series: Break up the week with a picnic blanket and dinner from a rotation of vendors. Live music and beer and wine available. June 25, August 20. Foster, Facebook: Foster Fairgrounds Food Truck Night
THURSDAYS
Daggett Farm Summer Concert: On select Thursdays in July and August, a night of live tunes awaits at Slater Park. Pawtucket, Facebook: Daggett Farm at Slater Park
FRIDAYS
Pawtucket Farmers Market: Not an early-riser? Shop local for food and stuff 4:30-7:30pm (except July 4) at this pet-friendly market at Jordan’s Jungle. Pawtucket, TourBlackstone.com
SATURDAYS
Chase Farm Food Trucks and Concerts: On select dates, the nature preserve grounds transform into a live music venue with a rotation of food trucks and beverages. June 14, July 12, August 2 & 30. Lincoln, Facebook: Food Trucks & Concerts - Chase Farm 2025
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Butterfly Farm’s Sunflower Fest: During August weekends, pick your own sunflowers from the sunnyyellow field, with vendors, food trucks, and farmfresh goods on hand. Leashed dogs are welcome. August 9-24. Lincoln, Instagram: @butterflyfarmri
JUNE
JUNE 7, 14, 21, 27
Rhode Island Football Club: Cheer on the state’s pro soccer club at the new Centreville Bank Stadium when they play USL Championship season home games this month! Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
JUNE 7
Lifted Voices: Mixed Magic Theatre music director Kim Pitts-Wiley and MMT Exult Choir members invite the community to take part in an immersive vocal performance workshop. Eventbrite: Lifted Voices
JUNE 8
Music at the Farm: Emma Robertson, soprano, and Chris Carson, piano, perform six songs for voice and piano in a rustic farm setting. Inquire about making your visit an overnight stay at onsite B&B. Pascoag, GraceNoteFarmWeb.com
JULY
JULY 4
Arnold Mills Parade and Road Race: Since 1927, this event has been a community and family tradition. The four-mile road race begins at 9am, and the parade steps off at 11am. Cumberland, ArnoldMillsParade.com
JULY 5
Rhode Island Football Club: Watch the fireworks and cheer on Rhody’s pro soccer club as they play the Birmingham Legion FC. Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
JULY 11
Join Audubon for an evening celebrating the living lightshow that is the firefly. Make a glowing craft to take home and end the evening by going out to the fields to watch their blinking displays. Rain date is July 12. Smithfield, ASRI.org
JULY 13
Music at the Farm: The Eureka Piano Trio, which includes violin and cello, is slated to perform at the venue and B&B. Pascoag, GraceNoteFarmWeb.com
JULY 18
Yacht Rock Experience: Enjoy a
summertime concert featuring music produced in southern California between 1976 and 1984, performed Boat House Row. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com
JULY 19, 25
Rhode Island Football Club: Cheer on the state’s pro soccer club at the new Centreville Bank Stadium when they play USL Championship season home games this month! Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
AUGUST
AUGUST 2-3
Dogapalooza Family Festival: Slater Park transforms into a destination for pet lovers
and shoppers alike, with a host of vendors, delicious food trucks, and live entertainment. Pawtucket, Facebook: Dogapalooza 2025
AUGUST 6, 9, 30
Rhode Island Football Club: Cheer on the state’s pro soccer club at the new Centreville Bank Stadium when they play USL Championship season home games this month! Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
AUGUST 30
Chinese Dragon Boat Race and Taiwan Day Festival: Observe traditional dragon boat races, celebrate cultural performances, enjoy Asian Cuisine, or even take part in a dumpling eating contest at this special riverside event. Pawtucket, DragonBoatRI.com
Photo courtesy of Dragon Boat RI
Chinese Dragon Boat Race and Taiwan Day Festival
EAST BAY & NEWPORT
ALL SUMMER LONG
Newport Gulls: Take yourself out to the ballgame! Cheer on the Newport Gulls – a wooden bat, collegiate summer team – play at Cardines Field. Home games are held most Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays throughout June and July. Newport, NewportGulls. PointStreakSites.com
SUNDAYS
Barrington Summer Concert Series: Dance the night away to local musicians in Latham Park and Barrington Town Beach on Sundays July through August. BarringtonLearningCTR.org
WEDNESDAYS
Music at Sunset: Take in the lush gardens and live music at Blithewold for their summer concert series which runs weekly from June 4-August 27. Bristol, Blithewold.org
Nature Walks: Be ready to spot native species and identify different plants during guided trail walks led by a naturalist. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org
THURSDAYS
Art Night Bristol/Warren: Tour the thriving art scenes of these two towns, held the last Thursdays of the month through August. Bristol & Warren, ArtNightBristolWarren.org
newportFILM: Keep a lawn chair or blanket in the trunk for evenings of critically acclaimed documentaries screened at outdoor locations throughout Aquidneck Island. MidJune through early September. NewportFilm.com
Sakonnet Green Market: Thursday afternoons (3-6pm), take a ride to Sakonnet Vineyards for this shop event hosted by Tiverton Farmers Market. Little Compton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
FRIDAYS
Herreshoff Museum Summer Artisan Market: Head to the Herreshoff for a daytime market on most Fridays featuring hand-picked vendors. Bristol, Herreshoff.org
Rhythm is Going to Get You: This social ballroom dance is held on the first Friday of
each month. Portsmouth, DTDBallroom.com
SATURDAYS
Free Family Fun Days: The hidden gem that is the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium is free on first Saturdays, offering nature stories, animal discoveries, hikes, and more. Bristol, ASRI.org
Newport Polo: Experience a breezy night at Glen Farm watching this historic game played on horseback. Arrive early for pre-game refreshments, shopping, and socializing. Portsmouth, NPTPolo.com
JUNE
JUNE 6-71
British Motorcar Festival: Car fanatics and anglophiles alike are in for a treat. With historic autos, vendors, and stunning views of Narragansett Bay, this event will surely be your cup of tea. BritishMotorCarsInBristol.com
JUNE 7
Farm Coast Art & Garden Ramble: This outdoor event promises an unforgettable combination of art and nature at historic Tiverton Four Corners. Along with vendors and
live music, art workshops and demonstrations are planned. TivertonFarmersMarket.com
Rhode Races Wine Run: A three-mile race along various (uneven) trails concludes with dinner, wine, and music at the coastal vineyard. Race participants will receive a souvenir wine glass. Little Compton, SakonnetWine.com
JUNE 12
Design by the Seasons: A Floral Arranging Series : Led by Julia Christina, each month enjoy learning to create designs using a different flower. June is garden roses, and August 14 is wildflowers. Bristol, MountHopeFarm.org
JUNE 14
State Street Art Fair: This event promises something for all ages, from art, food, and flower vendors to live alpacas and more, rain or shine. Repeats August 23. Bristol, DiscoverNewport.org
JUNE 20-22
Newport Flower Show: Held at Rosecliff, this year’s theme “A Floral Fair,” includes an opening night party, installations inside and outside the mansion and grounds, a marketplace, and inspiration that is anything but garden variety. NewportMansions.org
Sakonnet Green Market
Photo courtesy of Sakonnet Green Market
JUNE 22
Annual Strawberry Shortcake Social: This special edition of the Sunday market celebrates the harvest of the mighty fruit. Indulge in strawberry-everything, from treats to mocktails. TivertonFarmersMarket.com
JUNE 23-26
Newport Charter Yacht Show: A can’t-miss for yacht charter pros, this four-day event showcases luxury yachts, and ancillary goods and services, plus an agenda filled with fun competitions, seminars, and a fundraiser soiree. NewportCharterShow.com
JUNE 27-29
Secret Garden Tours: This self-guided walking tour offers access to a host of beautiful private gardens. Newport, SecretGardenTours.org
JULY
JULY 4
Independence Day Open House: The Colony House will be open (9-11am) for visitors to explore the first floor and hear stories of independence and revolution in Newport. A slate of free events is also scheduled to take place at Washington Square. NewportHistory.org
Newport Fireworks: Weather permitting, this year’s display is scheduled to light up the harbor at 9:15pm. For best viewing, find a westward-facing spot along Newport Harbor. Popular viewing locations include Perrotti Park, King Park, and Queen Anne Square. CityOfNewport.com
JULY CELEBRATION
JULY 4-22
Newport Classical Music Festival: Twentynine intimate concerts, 100 artists, and 11 venues – including Castle Hill Inn, The Elms, Blithewold Mansion – make this showcase of music and venues a highlight for classical music lovers. NewportClassical.org
JULY 6-13
Hall of Fame Open: Watch the pros play from great seats in the shade. Every Hall of Fame Open ticket comes with one free admission to the International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum. Newport, TennisFame.com
JULY 12
Cars & Coffee - Youngtimers: Fort Adams is the place for food trucks and a car show with prizes. Rev-up with merch available online. Newport, AudrainYoungtimers.com
French in Newport Reenactment: A day of living history features reenactments, exhibits, and free family fun returns to Washington Square with a kids’ scavenger hunt, fife and drum corps, tea tasting, silhouette art, and more. NewportHistory.org
JULY 16-20
Newport Dance Festival: Prepare a picnic and sit on the lawn to watch beautifully choreographed performances. NewportContemporaryBallet.org
JULY 19
Newport Beer Run: Lace up your kicks and hit the road at this 21+ event that combines a 5K road race with 30-plus breweries at Fort Adams State Park. NewportBeerRun.com
JULY 19-20
Open Studio Tour: Grab a map and plot your course on this self-guided art tour of Little Compton and Tiverton. Enjoy peeks at studios of various mediums and chat with artists as you tour the pastoral beauty of the farm coast. Repeats August 16-17. SouthCoastArtists.org
JULY 25-27
Float Fest: No ticket to Newport Folk Festival? No problem. This annual “spontaneous” event has boaters and paddlers heading to public ramps and making their way to Newport Harbor to watch the concert from the water. Newport
JULY 26-27
Newport Show: Fine arts enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this fundraiser filled with antiques, art, and other exquisite objects held at St. George’s to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County and the Newport Historical Society. Middletown, TheNewportShow.com
One of the oldest Independence Day traditions continues with a full agenda that kicks off in June. Major events include this month’s Summer Concert Series, upcoming fireworks, a ball, Miss and Little Miss 4th of July pageants, carnival rides, and the parade. There are also contests, sporting events, a firemen’s field day, dinners and tastings, children’s shows, an orange crate derby, visiting the Memorabilia Room, and more. FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com
HOT TIP: Feel like skipping the lawn chairs and port-a-potties?
The following offer ticketed events that include shaded seating, elbow room, views, and restrooms: Linden Place , LindenPlace.org Herreshoff Museum, Hereshoff.org
Newport Flower Show
AUGUST
AUGUST 1-3
Newport Jazz: Swing into this festival weekend at Fort Adams with a lineup including stars like The Roots, Janelle Monae, Raye, and more. NewportJazz.org
AUGUST 9
Wet Paint: This annual event brings together artists, collectors, and art-lovers for a day filled with creativity, connection, and celebration. This year’s event promises to restore some beloved traditions while introducing exciting new outdoor arts experiences. NewportArtMuseum.org
AUGUST 10
Cruise-In for a Cause: Cars of all types and sizes will be on view at the James D. Rielly Foundation car show, featuring food trucks, specialty vendors, 50/50 raffle, music by Triple J DJ, and a $500 cash prize for Best in Show. Bristol, JDRFoundation.org
AUGUST 16
Folks Fest: This annual event offers a snapshot of what makes Warren so cool. Enjoy a full family-friendly day of art, music, activities, food, a beer garden, and non-profit orgs. Parking is scarce, so walking or biking over is encouraged. Warren, TheCollaborative02885.org
AUGUST 16-17
Open Studio Tour: Tour the workspaces of up to 75 artists throughout Little Compton and Tiverton and admire quality, creative work produced in this scenic community. SouthCoastArtists.org
AUGUST 22-24
Black Ships Festival: Celebrate Asian culture with colorful ceremonies and delicious food. With a cultural marketplace fair and Taiko drum performance, combine fun with community. Bristol & Newport, JASRI.org
AUGUST 22-24
Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta: These waterfront races invite you to a weekend of competition or a classic yachting experience. Bristol, Herreshoff.org
AUGUST 24
Rhode Island Folk Festival: Rose Larisa Memorial Park is the bayside setting for this music showcase with a side of craft vendors and food trucks. RhodeIslandFolkFestival.com
CENTRAL RHODY
ALL SUMMER LONG
THURSDAYS
Warwick Food Truck Night: The Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick lawn transforms into an outdoor picnic venue when the food trucks come rolling in. Warwick, Facebook: Warwick Food Truck Night - Crowne Plaza
FRIDAYS
Bring Your Own Improv: Belly laughs abound at this family-friendly interactive comedy event. Warwick, WarwickCFA.org
SATURDAYS
Oakland Beach Cruise Nights: Car enthusiasts – motor over for classic, vintage, and sports cars, plus raffles, refreshments, and a DJ playing tunes. Warwick, Facebook: Oakland Beach Cruise Night
JUNE, JULY, & AUGUST
JUNE 1
Ocean State Card Con Summer 2025: A day full of cards, trading, comics, toys, games, food, and fun is on deck at the ultimate gathering for collectors and gamers, held at Oakland Beach Boys and Girls Club. Warwick, Eventbrite: Ocean State Card Con June 2025
JUNE 1, 4, 7, 8, 10
Music on the Hill Festival: This harbinger of summertime presents chamber music concerts at Cranston, East Greenwich, and Warwick venues. MusicOnTheHillRI.org
JUNE 11
Taste of Rhode Island: Sample your way through dozens of exciting eateries while enjoying live entertainment, a charity raffle, and sips from wine and beer partners at this 21+ evening. Warwick, TasteOfRI.com
JUNE 21
Summer Festival: Food trucks, vendors, fireworks, and more are back by popular demand at this event, returning to Coventry High School, with a rain date of June 22. CoventryRI.MyRec.com
GASPEE DAYS
The “first blow for freedom” that led to the American Revolution came in June of 1772 in Warwick, when colonists burned British revenue schooner, the HMS Gaspee. Pawtuxet Village pulls out all the stops to celebrate with a Symphony in the Park and fireworks (June 7), 5K foot race, and two-mile Gaspee Days Parade (June 14) replete with fife and drum corps, Shriners in miniature cars, and more, all capped by the Burning of the Gaspee reenactment (June 15). History buffs are sure to appreciate the Colonial encampment in the park (June 1415). Warwick, Gaspee.com
JULY 11
National French Fry Day: Apponaug Brewing Company hosts a celebration of fries inside the taproom. This familyfriendly event is equally delicious and unique. Warwick, ApponaugBrewing.com
AUGUST 24
Rocky Point Historic Baseball Festival: Vintage northeastern teams are up to bat following baseball rules of 1884 and 1864. Warwick, ProvidenceGrays.com
Gaspee Days
Photo by Elyse Major
SOUTHERN RHODY
ALL SUMMER LONG
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS
For four weeks, register children ages 5-10 to explore different entities of the farming world along with nature art, hiking, nature-themed literature, and more, held at Barlow Nature Preserve. July 8-July 31. WesterlyLandTrust.org
THURSDAYS
Wickford Harbor Fire: On third Thursdays, the charming village glows with shops and restaurants open late, live music, carriage rides, and family fun, all with a backdrop of floating fire pits. June 19, July 17, August 14. WickfordVillage.org
RiverFire: Special basins along the Saugatucket River are set ablaze, lighting up downtown Wakefield, along with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Schedule TBA: WakefieldVillageAssociation.com
FRIDAYS
Children’s Festival: Make memories attending live shows (10am and 12pm) at this series which kicks off July 11 with a juggling magician. A sing-a-long show, slapstick comedians, “semi-famous” magician, and more follow. Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea. com/kids
Summer Concerts at the Gazebo: The heart of the pier across from Narragansett Town Beach will be alive with music each Friday night this summer. Music includes blues, classic jazz, R&B, and tribute acts. June 6 through August 29. NarragansettRI.gov
State Beach Parking: Get updates on the status of parking lots at the busiest state beaches at RIParks.RI.gov.
JUNE
JUNE 1, 8, 15
Sunday Funday: Support local establishments as they take their businesses into the street for days of pedestrian shopping and dining. A creation station for kids, nine-hole mini golf course, lawn games and more are planned. Westerly, OceanChamber.org
JUNE 4-29
Birds, Bees & Blooms - The Annual Flower Show: An exhibit of work featuring artists Tammy Blais and Janet Maher at the Artists’ Cooperative Gallery of Westerly. OceanChamber.org
JUNE 7
Strawberry Thanksgiving: Celebrate the Strawberry Moon at this annual event held at Ninigret Park. Storytelling, a Native arts market, traditional dances, food vendors, games, and more are all planned. Charlestown, TomaquagMuseum.org
Wickford Harbor Lights
Photo (L) courtesy of I Love Wickford Village, (R) Photo courtesy of Charlestown Seafood Festival
JUNE 7-8
Open Studios at the Shady Lea Mill: Shop original jewelry, rugs, sculpture, pottery, paintings, photography, and more from participating artists, with a suggested donation of a canned good for the NK Food Pantry. North Kingstown, TheMillAtShadyLea.com
JUNE 10
Strawberry Moon Paddle on the Quonnie: Led by Weekapaug Inn’s onsite naturalist, this moonlit paddle pauses at a secluded beach for a champagne toast. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
JUNE 13
Charity Golf Tournament: Swing for a great cause with the Brad Friel Memorial Golf Classic. The all-day affair starts with check-in and lunch, followed by a raw bar and prime dinner, raffles, and awards after golf. Hope Valley, CharihoRotary.com
JUNE 14
Strawberry Festival: The second Saturday in June is devoted to the strawberry at the national historic site Smith’s Castle. North Kingstown, SmithsCastle.org
JUNE 21
Summer Pops 2025: A pre-show at 6pm ushers in performances by The Chorus of Westerly and The Pops Festival Orchestra, and fireworks by Grucci, all at Wilcox Park. Rain date is June 22. ChorusOfWesterly.org
JUNE 21-22
Narragansett Art Festival: Spend a day shopping for art by the sea at Veteran’s Park and Gazebo Field. Narragansett, WakefieldRotary.org
JUNE 28
Summer Soirée: The primary fundraiser for the Jamestown Art Center includes artwork, seasonal savories, cocktails, and more. Take part in the live auction and grab your dancing shoes for this unforgettable occasion. JamestownArtCenter.org
JULY
JULY 4
Fireworks Cruise: Hop on board Rhode Island Fast Ferry’s Julia Leigh for a sunset cruise down Narragansett Bay, ending with the fireworks display over Newport Harbor and/or Narragansett Town Beach. North Kingstown, FastFerry.com
JULY 5
Independence Day Beach Ball: Enjoy a beachside New England Lobster Boil, specialty cocktails, and dancing to live music. A stunning fireworks display caps the night. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
JULY 11
Summer Pops: Don’t touch that dial! The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra will be honoring various television periods with this year’s summer show, conducted by Troy Quinn. Narragansett, RIPhil.org
JULY 12-13
Wickford Art Festival: Spend two days discovering the handiwork of 200 artists at Wilson Park. North Kingstown, WickfordArt.org
JULY 23 - AUGUST 3
Kingston Chamber Music Festival: The 37th season celebrates the unique beauty of making music in the Ocean State: From Coast to Cadence. Kingston, KingstonChamberMusic.org
JULY 24-26
Blessing of the Fleet Celebration: This three-day fete, boasting attendances of over 30,000 people, will feature live music, a beer tent, games, rides, a 10-mile road race, a boat decoration contest, and of course, the blessing. NarragansettLionsClub.org
JULY 26
Celebrate The Milky Way: Weather permitting, hang out with astronomers and telescopes at Frosty Drew Observatory as they showcase many of the celestial objects found along the Milky Way galactic plane. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org
River Glow: Floating bonfires illuminate the Pawcatuck River and set a backdrop for a night of steel drums, dancers, shopping specials and more. Westerly, OceanChamber.org
DATE TBD
Colonial Theatre Shakespeare: Pack bug spray and blankets to best enjoy the Bard at RI’s longest running Shakespeare festival staged each summer at Wilcox Park. Westerly, ColonialTheaterArt.org
AUGUST
AUGUST 13-17
Washington County Fair: Mark your calendars for five days of family fun with midway rides, livestock shows, tractor pulls, and everything else that promotes this county’s rural heritage. Richmond, WashingtonCountyFair-RI.com
AUGUST 29-31
Rhythm & Roots: People make a weekend out of this annual music festival that has 1,500 camping tickets available, merch, food, and headliners Little Feat, Trampled by Turtles, and Blackberry Smoke. Charlestown, RhythmAndRoots.com
AUGUST 1-3: THE CHARLESTOWN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL: Ninigret Park is the place to be for one of the biggest events in New England. Along with seafood for days, there’s a daily schedule of live bands, a car show, amusement rides, raffles, karaoke, and more. Did we mention RV camping and fireworks? CharlestownSeafoodFestival.com
Charlestown Seafood Festival
Across Rhody: PRIDE
Held in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Inn uprising in New York City, these events are all about making LGBTQ+ youth and adults feel safe, welcome, appreciated, and seen.
JUNE 1:
North Kingstown Pride Parade
JUNE 2: Pawtucket Pride
JUNE 8: Woonsocket Pride
JUNE 14: South County Pride
JUNE 14:
West Warwick Pride
JUNE 21: Providence 2025 PrideFest & Illuminate Night Parade
JUNE 22: Big Pride Flea
JUNE 27-29: Newport Pride Festival & Parade
TBA: East Greenwich Pride Celebration & Picnic
BLOCK ISLAND
ALL SUMMER LONG
SATURDAYS & WEDNESDAYS
Block Island Farmers Market: Even if you’re on vacay, it’s worth setting the alarm for this 9-11:30am outdoor market held at Legion Park. Flowers, honey, jewelry, and more are all part of this quintessential island experience. BIFarmersMarket.com
THURSDAYS
Thursday Night Programs: While details were unavailable at press time, the Block Island Historical Society is known for hosting evening programs at 7pm. Look for updates at BlockIslandHistorical.org.
JUNE, JULY, & AUGUST
JUNE 11
Sunset Full Moon Kayak and SUP: Register to kayak or paddleboard in time for sunset and the rising full moon. BlockIslandChamber.com
JUNE 22
ConserFest: “Embrace your place” at this donation-based, family-style outdoor event that has become a mainstay. Held at Southeast Lighthouse, experience a full day of music, lawn games, vendors, and more. ConserFest.org
JULY 1
Fireworks: Expect the display to begin at dusk. Launched from a barge off Crescent Beach, fireworks are visible from much of the island. BlockIsland4th.com
JULY 4
Fourth of July Parade: Block Island Lore and Legends is the theme for this year’s parade, which runs along West Side Road and ends at the statue of Rebecca. Prizes awarded for floats. BlockIsland4th.com
JULY 26
Great Salt Pond Swim-10: This annual fundraiser to protect the pond is a onemile swim limited to 150 individuals, beginning and ending at Andy’s Way Beach . CGSPBlockIsland.org
AUGUST 2
Block Island Triathlon: A quarter-mile open-water ocean swim, 12 miles of biking, and a four-mile run on Fred Benson Town Beach are all part of BI’s largest and most popular race. NewShorehamRI.gov
AUGUST 9-11
Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival: Paintings, handmade pieces, photography, and more will be for sale at this outdoor event hosted at Narragansett Inn. Facebook: Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival
Fireworks confirmed at press time
Block Island Farmer’s Market
Big Pride Flea
Photo (L) courtesy of Big Pride Flea, (R) by Elyse Major
HOME & STYLE
Home | Rhody Reads | Shop | Profile
Material Matters
Behind the mindful revival of a 135-year-old coastal home
By Andrea E. McHugh
onald and Allyson Scarlata know a thing or two about quirky old homes by the sea. For all of their rich histories and architectural charm, the past relics of coastal grandeur often come with complex issues and myriad spaces requiring next-level restoration. The couple had been renting a home in Saunderstown for some time, along with Lola, their eight-year-old Vizsla-mix rescue, when they decided it was time to plant roots. The Scarlatas were willing to compromise on some features in their home search, as homeowners must, but there was one thing the couple wasn’t willing to budge on: the home had to be near the water.
The interior wall color throughout the home is Paper White by Benjamin Moore, a mild neutral tone without any undertones
home
At the time, there was just one waterfront home on the market in Saunderstown, the coastal village straddling North Kingstown and Narragansett. The single-family home built in 1890, just steps from the Plum Beach Club (established in 1923), was a diamond in the rough; the former grand dame perched above Narragansett Bay came with serious needs.
“Due to disrepair and aging, it had been on and off the market for more than four years,” says Allyson. “Being native New Englanders who have lived in older homes in the past, we knew what this home would require from us – or thought we knew.” As
the owner of Colonial Mills, a braided rug manufacturing company located in Rumford which has been in business for 47 years, Donald knows more than most about extraordinary craftsmanship. With a unique appreciation for age-old artistry and earnest workmanship, the couple was committed to bringing back the integrity of the home.
The couple turned to Craig Couture, a kitchen and bath designer at Cypress Design Co. in East Providence, to merge past and present. Together, they chose Benjamin Moore’s Paper White for the interior wall color throughout, giving the home a
Couture chose to make the existing structural post and beam to make a design feature instead of trying to hide it away. This was achieved through incorporating the post into the seating area and adding warmth with wood on the bottom of the beam
The
was one of the first built in Plum Beach, a waterfront hamlet on Narragansett Bay overlooking the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge
clean, crisp canvas that embraces the spirit of yesteryear. The outdated kitchen had a complete overhaul to meet contemporary demands, but gives a nod to traditional styling. New Shaker cabinets align with the cottage vibe of the home, chosen specifically as the style has also withstood ever-changing trends. The couple added custom paneling to their appliances from Wickford Appliance to give the kitchen a warm, inviting feel. “Due to the smaller size of the home and its open concept, I didn’t
want the appliances to stand apart from the beautiful cabinetry,” says Allyson. Original ash flooring with a durable five-inch-wide solid white oak was refreshed, and to maximize coveted views of Narragansett Bay, six windows were added to the ground floor. When it came to furnishings, lighting, and other features, Couture and the Scarlatas mixed antique finds with carefully selected newer pieces that work with the eclectic textures of the interior. Looking around, Allyson shares, “it was one of the first homes built in Plum Beach. We were told it had once been referred to as the heart of the neighborhood.” The restored home beats on.
Upper cabinets echo the lines of the windows
Accents complement the fixtures
by
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Bay Windows
In this Plum Beach stunner, the homeowners worked with Couture, who embraced a neutral color palette to let Mother Nature shine. “Our main view is Narragansett Bay,” says the homeowners. “This is what provides the pop of color to our decor.”
Local Love
The Scarlatas say that living in a small town in the smallest state has advantages. “Of course, the ocean is close no matter where you live, but we also have quaint towns, museums, beautiful nature trails and the city of Providence,” says Allyson, adding that they often frequent the neighboring village of Wickford. “We usually dine on the outside deck at Tavern By the Sea [and] often shop at Beauty and the Bath, and Green Ink.” Other favorite local stops include the weekly farmers market at Casey Farm, just a mile from their home, and The Farmer’s Daughter in South Kingstown.
Outlet Shopping
Scarlata’s Colonial Mills braided area rugs are sold nationwide through select retailers. Visit the factory outlet store at their facilities in Rumford. Learn more at ColonialMills.com.
Rhody Reads
Watch Hill’s own bestseller shares new releases and author events
By Deborah Goodrich Royce
Friends, I don’t know about you, but 2025 has been complicated for me. I find it helps to be intentional about doing what soothes our souls – such as reading a great book! Summer in Rhode Island is glorious and here’s a collection of some of the books and authors who will visit our Ocean House Author Series in the coming months.
Watch Hill’s own Jim Pierce will join us on July 2 to discuss The Beginning , a work that takes readers on a journey into Winston Churchill’s world, set in the tumultuous years of 1940 and 1941. From the very first day he became prime minister, Churchill faced relentless challenges. Through historical fiction, the author skillfully transports readers back to these pivotal events, personalizing the experience and bringing history to life.
On July 9, we welcome New York Times bestseller Mary Alice Monroe back to the Ocean
House with her historical novel, Where the Rivers Merge . Tracking the life of Eliza Rivers, the novel sweeps the 20th century at Mayfield, a grand Lowcountry Carolina estate. This story of unyielding love, lessons learned, and the profound sacrifices follows a woman determined to persevere in the face of change in order to protect her family legacy and the land she loves.
Nationally bestselling author and Rhode Island’s own Jessa Maxwell will join us on Wednesday, July 23. Her delicious new thriller, Dead of Summer , is set on a remote New England island. When Orla O’Conner returns to clean out her parents’ house to sell it, locals talk and stare. Soon, Orla can no longer avoid seeking answers to the disappearance of Alice, her best friend in high school, the thing that has kept her away from Hadley Island for years.
Beatriz Williams is back! Her newest novel, Under the Stars , invites readers back to Winthrop
Island, and the author herself returns to the Ocean House on August 6. A devastating secret haunts the women of an old New England Family. In this richly woven tale, the destinies of three women converge across centuries, as a harrowing true disaster at the dawn of the steamship era evokes a complex legacy of family secrets in modern-day New England.
A Harvard-trained neuroscientist and New York Times bestselling author, Lisa Genova always delivers a fresh perspective on the human mind. Join us on August 13 when we discuss her latest work, More or Less Maddy , a riveting novel about a young woman diagnosed with bipolar disorder who rejects the stability and approval found in a traditionally “normal” life for a career in stand-up comedy.
On August 20, we welcome Wilbur Ross with his memoir, Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life . Already known
as the “King of Bankruptcy” in his 55-year career on Wall Street, Ross joined the first Trump administration in 2017 as Secretary of Commerce (a role later played by Rhode Island’s former governor, Gina Raimondo, under Biden). Rising from humble origins, Ross applied discipline and hard work to live a life up close to many of the seminal events of recent decades.
New York Times bestseller Karen White joins us on August 27 with That Last Carolina Summer , a novel about sisterhood, secrets, and one woman’s reckoning with the past. Phoebe Manigault’s lightning strike as a child left her with mysterious dreams. When she is summoned home to care for her ailing mother, she connects with Celeste, a woman whose grandson disappeared years ago in this unforgettable family
drama about unbreakable bonds and the gift of second chances.
We wrap up summer on September 3 with Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? , Sarah McCoy’s poignant novel about a 1960s movie star who chucks it all for the cloistered life of a nun. Posing the big question of who we are – bodies with souls or souls inhabiting human bodies – McCoy deftly weaves a tale of old Hollywood glamor and romance mixed in with more mystical yearnings. What did happen to Lori Lovely and why did she let it all go?
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases.
ABOUT DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE
Deborah Goodrich Royce’s Reef Road , a national bestseller, was named one of the best books of 2023 by Kirkus Reviews and an Indie Next pick by the ABA. With fellow authors Luanne Rice and Amy Scheibe, she created the Deer Mountain Writers’ Retreat in the Catskills. Her Ocean House Author Series, in partnership with Martin House Books and WCRI, brings world-class authors like Sarah Ferguson, Chris Bohjalian, and Katie Couric to Watch Hill. For tickets and more, visit OceanHouseEvents.com.
Royce began as an actress on All My Children and in multiple films, before transitioning to the role of story editor at Miramax Films, developing Emma and early versions of Chicago and A Wrinkle in Time . She holds a bachelor’s degree and two honorary doctorates, from both Lake Erie College and the University of Rhode Island. With her husband, Chuck, she has restored the Ocean House, United Theatre, Martin House Books, and numerous Main Street revitalization projects in Rhode Island and the Catskills. She serves on multiple governing and advisory boards.
Butter Up
Made-in-Rhody home accents in a range of yellows worth melting for
By Elyse Major
In both fashion and home interiors, yellow is having a moment. The cheer-inducing of the year” lists, lauded for its mix of optimism, comfort, and nostalgia. Ever versatile, yellow has a wide palette ranging from cozy-cottage warm to bright and mod or sophisticated with darker tints like ochre, all ready to give any space a shot of sunshine. Across the state, makers are as smitten with the happy hue as we are, with goods made right here and available in the Ocean State.
THREE PIECE PLACE SETTING, SUNGOLD Rumford, Myrth.us
FLOUR SACK TEA TOWEL, BLACK EYED SUSAN Warwick, NoonDesignShop.com
SPOON AND KNIFE SET, YELLOW SWIRL Wakefield, TheGlassStation.com
Creative Energy
A holistic boutique brings “coastal hippie” vibes to historic Wickford
By Erin McGinn
Alana Almonte is a familiar face at art festivals, known for her mixed-media pieces that often combine paintings embellished with shells, driftwood, and rope. She sources much of the ephemera used in her work locally on the shores of Rhode Island and also off Sanibel and Captiva Islands in Florida, places that hold special ties to her life with her husband and their two young daughters. Now
Almonte’s handiwork can be found at her newly opened Anchored Soul in Wickford.
Inside a cheery little white cottage, Almonte brings a revived sense of community and purpose, along with art, jewelry, clothing, books, plants, and crystals to the second iteration of her concept, originally in Pawtuxet Village. “Wickford has a beautiful, calming energy that immediately resonated with me,” she explains. “The village is rich in history and surrounded by water, which has always been a source of grounding inspiration for me.”
Located a short drive from her home, Almonte reveals that she has a few “elves” foraging for her nearby. She often comes home to her Munroe Dairy porch box filled with shoreline finds that her neighbors and their children collected on nature walks. Her parents also join in the fun, decorating planters with seashell mosaics that line the shelves, and her brother built the
Photography by Erin McGinn
Alana Almonte inside her shop which opened mid-April
bohemian-style wooden light fixture that adorns the ceiling of the store.
Not your typical gift shop, Almonte is a Reiki Master, the Japanese technique for stress reduction and healing. At the space she offers both tarot and angel/oracle card readings, meditation classes, and energy work. “After years of exploring various healing modalities, I discovered how combining mindfulness, creativity, and
Apparel and jewelry to create boho looks
Artwork and gifts fills the sunny space on Main Street
Look for upcoming in-store events at AnchoredSoulRI.com
intentional practices can offer profound shifts, and I simply want to share that with the world,” says the entrepreneur. Doing everything with intention and purpose is a key component of Anchored Soul; from class offerings to inventory, everything is designed to inspire and uplift. “I created Anchored Soul because it grounds me to the depths of my being and has been nothing short of transformative to my life. I find so much joy and purpose in creating safe spaces for others to experience and discover the same sense of wholeness and renewal,” Almonte says.
Community is key for Almonte, and patrons will discover goods from other local artists, makers, authors, and jewelers for sale, along with her own. She also co-hosts social networking events via her Soulful Collective to empower women, and is collaborating on a candle line with Rhode Island-based Sacred Flame, choosing the scents and infusing them with Reiki. A membership is also offered at Anchored Soul, giving special access to options like meditation art classes, an online community platform, and VIP shopping experiences. With warmer days ahead, Almonte is excited
about opening the back patio for gatherings, pop-up events with other artists, and group classes. She finds herself moving towards a group environment for her energy work in Reiki, intention setting, and art workshops, creating a “bigger energy to hone in on,” she explains. Private group workshops for those who want to host friends for special gatherings or milestones are also an option. “Many of my clients enjoy surrounding themselves with a like-minded community and come to release stress, navigate life transitions, or deepen their spiritual growth within a trusted circle.” Learn more at AnchoredSoul.com.
Photography by Erin McGinn
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FEATURE
The Edge of Greatness
An up-and-coming neighborhood enchants with creative bites and community spirit
By Emily Olson
Tucked along the banks of the Pawtuxet River is a living postcard where the edges of Cranston and Providence’s Washington Park neighborhood blur together. Gentle rapids run under the bridge that connects the two halves of Broad Street, and a picturesque waterfront is lined with colorful boats.
Edgewood is a town that looks like it minds its manners, but the rebellious spirit of its neighboring Pawtuxet Village – where, as Rhode Islanders well know, colonists sparked The Revolutionary War in 1772 by burning the British Royal Navy ship the HMS Gaspee – spills over into this quaint town, in the form of a bold restaurant scene that refuses to play it safe. There’s no watered down coffee or limp lettuce to be found here. Instead, there’s everything from high-end dining to quick bites. And the neighborhood serves up a riot of global flavors that prove rebellion tastes better when shared.
A fried chicken sandwich from Ming’s on Broad
Those who wander from the busiest blocks of Broad Street will find a few fun food spots that draw foot traffic to Edgewood. One such locale is Ming’s On Broad, a brick-and-mortar that put down roots this spring after its start in 2018 as a food truck slinging Asian-inspired fried chicken sandwiches. Owners and husband-and-wife partners Josh Burgoyne and Korn Suom returned to their home to open the new spot.
“Korn and I were born and raised in Cranston, moved all over Rhode Island in our 20s, and then we were fortunate enough to buy a home in Edgewood,” Burgoyne explains. “When we saw that the space formerly occupied by Edgewood Cafe had become available, we knew it would be a great spot for our concept.”
One reason for their commitment? Since Suom and Burgoyne grew up in Cranston, they already have a serious fan base in the
form of friends, family, and friends of friends. But the other reason is because they noticed a vacuum they could fill. “Selfishly, I always just wanted to see a good sandwich shop in the area,” Burgoyne says. “There’s already a solid base of places to eat and drink. But I always thought that just a straight-up sandwich shop would kill it here.”
The menu of panko-fried chicken sandwiches is rounded out with a variety of treats and apps like dumplings, crab rangoon, and wings. The new hotspot, outfitted in marigold-yellow awnings, was eagerly anticipated by neighbors. “We remodeled the whole restaurant in a little less than three months and we could feel the hype while we were building. People were looking in the windows and knocking on the door during the remodel. So we knew there was a good energy here,” Burgoyne says. “And this is a great neighborhood. Everybody loves
walking, biking, and being outside, which is perfect for foot traffic. People who live here are really proud of the area.”
Closer to the Pawtuxet border is another new-ish kid on the block: Pawtuxet Village Market, a bright little country store with a small-town vibe that opened its doors last fall. Owner Jaymie Hazard was born and raised in Pawtuxet Village and grew up going to the local market, Lindsey’s, which closed its doors in 2012. “I opened the market because I love the nostalgia of it,” Hazard explains. “But I also filled a void here.”
Pawtuxet Village Market combines oldschool charm with a modern vibe. Its shelves are stocked with organic, vegan, and gluten-free items, many of which are from other local small businesses. “My Italian side comes through in the bakery,” Hazard says. “My goal is to provide a little something for everyone.”
Newly opened Ming’s on Broad where the Edgewood Cafe used to be
Ming’s co-owner Korn Suom
Photos by Victoria Costello, courtesy of Ming’s On Broad
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.
Hazard’s market fits right into the energy buzzing through Broad Street. “There’s lots of exciting changes going on here,” she says. “There’s a reimagining of The Blue Room that will offer live music. The village staple O’Rourke’s just changed hands. Everyone in the town is lovely, and I love the fact that people come into my store to wander, chat, and meet their neighbors.”
Photo courtesy of Pawtuxet Village Market
Chatting with neighbors is one of the things Lily Scott, owner of Lily’s Soups and Scoops, likes best about her Edgewood restaurant. “People seem to feel really comfy sitting down at our little takeout counter. People in this neighborhood have a keen interest in supporting their own, and people like to come in and talk. We get to know our neighbors pretty well.”
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Pawtucket Village Market
FEATURE
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS
Lily’s Soups and Scoops is a long-held idea made manifest. “The soup and ice cream concept had been floating around in my head for years,” says Scott. Eight years ago, she began making bone broth commercially under the label Lily’s Ladle. Scott sources vegetable and animal products from local farms and turns them into mineral-rich beef, chicken, and veggie broth that she sells to regional grocery stores, including Pawtuxet Village Market.
“The broths have nothing in them but lovely ingredients,” Scott says. When she started her
broth company, she shared her kitchen with a caterer that eventually bought its own building. When the catering company moved out, Scott took over the lease to make her dream of a soup and ice cream shop a reality.
“I use my broth as the base for our readyto-eat soups,” she explains. Four permanent fixtures – tomato basil, Portuguese kale, chicken noodle, and chicken and rice – anchor the menu, but everything else rotates almost daily. “I think of them as guest stars, featuring seasonal ingredients.”
Photo courtesy of Lily’s Soups and Scoops
Lily Scott of Lily’s Soups and Scoops
Whether warm or cold, sweet or savory, there’s a soup or ice cream for every mood
Summer menus feature some of Scott’s favorite ingredients, like watermelon. “When it’s in season, I make a watermelon gazpacho. It’s vividly pink with base notes of tomato, cucumber, and red onion. We finish it off with lemon and vinegar and add a sprinkle of feta cheese to add those salty notes,” she says. “Four Town Farms in Seekonk grows abundant watermelons, so when they become available, I walk in and say, ‘Load me up!’”
Bread is baked fresh daily as a side to every bowl of soup that leaves her shop, and grilled cheese rounds out the menu for those who want to take home the perfect comfort combo. Another pairing she serves with pride is ice cream and coffee. “We offer Warwick Ice Cream by itself, but we can also make an affogato, which is ice cream with espresso poured over it. We also have a frozen coffee and tea menu – including frozen matcha –
Rhody Resources
Start an Edgewood and Pawtuxet Village afternoon visiting these spots (mentioned in the article), and discover favorites of your own while you’re in the neighborhood.
ALL FAVORITES CAFE 1678 Broad Street AllFavoritesCafe.com
THE BLUE ROOM Visit online for updates: TheBlueRoom.com
MING’S ON BROAD 1864 Broad Street MingsRI.com
LILY’S SOUPS AND SCOOPS 1850 Broad Street LilysSoupsAndScoops.com
O’ROURKES BAR & GRILL 23 Peck Lane ORourkesBarAndGrill.com
PAWTUXET VILLAGE MARKET 2180 Broad Street PawtuxetVillageMarket.com
Coming Soon
Watch for a new Seven Stars Bakery opening on Broad Street in the Edgewood neighborhood – the seventh location of this localfavorite! SevenStarsBakery.com
that people really like.”
Scott is delighted with her restaurant neighbors popping up along the street, as she sees them more as collaborators than competitors. “I think it’s great if you find Lily’s Soups and Scoops because you went to All Favorites Cafe,” she says. “This is such a lovely part of town, and the more restaurants that choose to make their home here, the less we have to do to convince people this is a cool area.”
Photo courtesy of Lily’s Soups and Scoops
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FOOD & DRINK
Experience | In the Kitchen | Stuffie Legacy | Food Trends
Armando’s Kitchen
The
chef of a Douglas Avenue Italian eatery brings culinary traditions to guests’ homes
By Jenna Kaplan
If you’ve ever walked into a place and immediately felt like you were part of the family, you’ll know exactly what it’s like to step into Dolce & Salato. More than just a cafe or bakery, this Italian eatery is an immersive experience that brings people together through food, culture, and storytelling. At the heart of it all is chef Armando Bisceglia, a man whose passion for cooking is matched only by his love for sharing it with others. Born and raised in Naples, Bisceglia moved to New Jersey as a child before settling in Rhode Island for college. Although he built a life in the United States, his heart never strayed far from his native roots. “One of my favorite places to go back and visit is La Padella,” he says. “They do only fried foods. And let me tell you, Italians know how to fry.” His dedication to authentic Italian cuisine is reflected in every dish he creates. Nearly all of his ingredients come directly from Italy, from the Caputo flour for the pizza dough to the delicate croissants that arrive frozen, ready for an artisan’s touch.
Dining with Bisceglia is an invitation into his world, where food, laughter, and storytelling turn every meal into a curated performance, whether at Dolce & Salato or through his exclusive Armando Experience. For those lucky enough to attend the latter, Bisceglia takes over their home kitchen and prepares a five-course feast filled with tradition and spontaneity. “You show us the pots and pans, we’ll do the rest,” he jokes. “And if your dishwasher’s broken, no problem – we’ll wash by hand.”
by
P hotos
Jenna Kaplan
Chef Armando Bisceglia
Dolce & Salato specializes in immsersive experiences of Italian cooking
Dishes like the perfectly crisp Neapolitan montanara (a style of fried pizza) and handmade pastas crafted with generations of tradition reflect his deep connection to Naples, which he shares with guests by regaling them with the origins of each course they taste to create an unforgettable meal.
Beyond the family photos that adorn the walls and the rich aroma of house-made red sauce simmering in the kitchen, Dolce & Salato is guided by a deeper purpose. Bisceglia and his team nourish both the community and its appetite by raising funds for organizations like
Children’s Wishes and We Feed Rhode Island. At one event alone, the Armando Experience raised $14,000 to grant wishes for children facing critical illnesses. That same spirit of generosity was returned to him in 2021, when he battled a severe case of COVID-19. While he fought for his life, the Rhode Island restaurant community rallied together, raising $50,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to keep Dolce & Salato open. “I woke up to people I didn’t even know saying, ‘We prayed for you,’” he recalls. “How do you ever repay that?” His answer is simple – he pays it forward.
RIAM’s Big Red Truck – An East Side Fixture
P hoto by Jenna Kaplan
Walking into Dolce & Salato feels like stepping into a little corner of Italy. If you’re lucky, you might catch Bisceglia moving between tables, sharing stories, and making guests feel as if they have been invited into his own kitchen. “We didn’t build this business to get rich,” he says. “We built it to introduce people to the culture that made us who we are.”
Dolce & Salato
209 Douglas Avenue
464-5539 • DolceSalatoPVD.com
GRAND
Dinner in Argentina
Wine pairings, bold tapas, and happy hour are trademarks of new Fox Point hot spot
By Cynthia Munrayos
Iwanted to create a fun, approachable dinner experience, where it’s really about enjoying the evening together,” says Tomas Pelaez, who opened Gardel in Fox Point with this vision in mind. Rustic yet refined Argentinian-inspired tapas and specialty paired wines are on the menu this summer as the new restaurant has settled into its stride.
When it opened in January, Gardel was primarily a takeout concept, centering Argentine sandwiches and empanadas, most notably the choripán, a beloved street food sandwich made with grilled chorizo, crusty bread, and a generous spread of fresh chimichurri. Over time, Pelaez transitioned into the full restaurant experience, expanding Gardel into a cozy, elevated space offering gourmet tapas with a refreshingly casual vibe. With a background as a wine merchant, Pelaez was especially eager to highlight inspired pairings.
“I think the biggest draw is that almost no one else is doing Argentine food in Rhode Island,” says Pelaez. “A lot of people who aren’t too familiar with Argentine cuisine assume it’s just one kind of steak and that’s it, or they might think the flavors are really spicy or super exotic, but actually, the flavors are very recognizable, especially here in Rhode Island, with all the Portuguese and Italian influences the area has.”
Pelaez instills his love of tango music –particularly Argentine singer Carlos Gardel – into the restaurant’s atmosphere, and his wife’s Argentine roots help shape the menu, along with Italian and Spanish influences, especially with their tapas offerings. A selection of Argentine wines includes Malbecs, alongside classics like Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Barbera, and Malvasia. “I like to bring on wines that I think are tasty and pair well with the food,” he says of the curation process.
Photo courtesy of Gardel
Roasted veggies with chorizo Iberico hummus
Intricate cocktail specials also provide inspired sips – El Tano is made with Campari, grapefruit juice, and mint. Guests flock to Gardel’s La Hora del Vermouth, a happy hour from 5-6pm Wednesdays through Saturdays, featuring mixed drinks starring vermouth. A natural progression for the restaurant, Pelaez began curating special wine dinners,
thoughtfully designed to pair the perfect bite with the perfect pour, lining up four different wines to complement four dishes. “I think it’s a way to bring people together, to have a wine dinner that’s not pompous or stuffy, and not just for people who are really into wine. It’s more like a supper club or a casual wine tasting with friends: sitting down, hanging
out, drinking good wine, and enjoying great food,” he describes.
Since the menu and wine lists are constantly rotating, dishes are also crafted around seasonal ingredients and even vary depending on the weather. Gardel has served up unique bites like their popular Argentine steak with chimichurri paired with a rich, fruit-forward
Empanadas Argentinas
Photos courtesy of Gardel
Malbec; Pan con Tomate (a rich tomato toast); the classic Spanish tortilla (a thick, savory omelet made with potatoes and onions), and their famous empanadas. Pelaez notes that these aren’t your typical empanadas: they’re baked rather than fried, and filled with a rich, stewed meat mixture – a true exemplar of their roots.
Gardel is Fox Point’s new destination for Argentine cuisine
Pelaez uses a standout dish featuring blood sausage to describe his vision: “Some of the most flavorful dishes come from humble ingredients – like cuts of meat that have been slow-cooked for hours,” he says. “They end up developing an incredible depth of flavor. Over the past hundred years, we’ve gotten used to thinking food always has to look beautiful, and a lot of times people miss out because they’re intimidated by appearances. What I’m trying to do is change the presentation, make it more appealing, and encourage people to
Photo courtesy of Gardel
try things they might otherwise overlook –just like how thoughtful plating can transform the experience of a dish.”
Gardel welcomes walk-ins and features a rotating menu from Wednesday through Saturday, with lunch service on Sundays. Reservations for the wine dinners are available on their website and Instagram.
Gardel 102 Ives Street @gardel.ri PVDGardel.com
The Stuff of Life
A retiree cooks up a new business, bringing her mom’s stuffed quahogs to local grocers
By Abbie Lahmers
Following a long career in education, including over a decade as an administrator, Cheryl Ursillo happened upon an unexpected phenomenon after entering retirement, as foretold by a saying her father used to express: “I have nothing to do and all day to do it in.” Ursillo explains, “It was always funny when he said it – and then all of a sudden, you become your parent and you find yourself in that stage of life.”
Rather than letting her free time stretch into days filled with nothing to do, Ursillo hatched a plan. Motivated by the memory of her mother making stuffies for holidays and special occasions, she started tossing around the idea of recreating that nostalgia. “A lot of people who had eaten my mother’s recipes over many years encouraged me to [make them], and what they didn’t know was that I had already thought about marketing them.”
Ursillo dove into the ins and outs of starting
her own business, attending a Sam Adams-led seminar in Providence covering everything from marketing to research and development, and gleaning insights from The Big Idea , a book on making entrepreneurial dreams come true by Donny Deutsch. Through courses on starting a food business, she learned that she didn’t need to have her own manufacturing company, and when she found one that was a good fit to recreate her unique product, the stars aligned for Grace’s Stuffies to come to fruition.
P hotos courtesy of Grace’s Stuffies
Stuffies prepared just like Ursillo remembers her mom making them
Cheryl Ursillo of Grace’s Stuffies
“I thought Rhode Island deserved a stuffie that was really, really good,” says Ursillo, remarking on the delicacy’s staple status here, where quahogs are the state shellfish. With Grace’s Stuffies, you can see the seafood chunks in each shell, and the filling is moist and buttery, not overly bready. Ursillo took a hands-on approach to developing and scaling the recipe from the batches of 36 her mother would typically make to just under 1,200, working closely with the manufacturing facility to ensure each four-ounce, hand-scooped portion of savory stuffie filling was consistent,
and that it tasted just like her mom used to make.
Adding slightly sweet bay scallops to the clam mixture and Margherita pepperoni instead of chourico, Ursillo explains that her mother’s recipe is an Italian version of the Portuguese stuffie many are familiar with. “As I always say, variety is what makes life interesting,” she notes. “It’s not to say that one is better than another – it’s just different.”
It’s clear that Rhode Islanders agree. The fourpacks of frozen stuffies fly out of the freezer cases of stores around the state. When it comes to
marketing, Ursillo is a people-person. “I’ve just gone out and found customers of my own,” she says matter-of-factly, whether that means calling grocery stores, offering samples, or handing out her business card to customers. “People are often intrigued,” she says. “They’re surprised that the person who owns the company would take the time to meet the customers and share my story.”
What was once a tradition in Ursillo’s home is now a centerpiece in many families’ holiday dinners and backyard barbecues. She’s even fulfilled requests shipping them as far away as Florida and
P hoto courtesy of Grace’s Stuffies
Clams and bay scallops in the mix
Ursillo takes a hands-on approach to overseeing the production of Grace’s Stuffies
Providing financial assistance to the parents of children battling brain cancer
Honoring the children who suffer from cancer and fight everyday. Our hopes are to make a day in the life of a family suffering from cancer a little bit brighter
Food Trends: Roaming Snacks
Three trucks with creative provisions to watch for this season
By Abbie Lahmers
Husband-and-wife team Adam and Kelly McGrath bring a seasonal approach to the art of crafting the perfect sandwich. The pair brings over 20 years of combined experience in the dining industry to A&K’s Food Truck, which features an ever-changing menu of scratchmade eats between two pieces of bread. “Versatility is our expertise!” shares Adam,
explaining their passion for devising creative takes on regional sandwiches, from classic American brisket to Italian and French influences. BBQ sandwiches take the spotlight this month, which are best enjoyed with Candied Bacon on the side. Each new iteration of their menu always includes a vegetarian option, too, such as the popular Caprese
Sandwich. “We have a passion for food and it has been a driving force in our lives for a decade,” says Adam. “This is our first endeavor that we can call our own.” Find them at the Pawtucket Farmer’s Market, Phantom Farms Brewing, Ragged Island Brewing Co., and others this month, with a schedule posted online at AAndKsFoodTruck.com.
Creative sandwiches on rotation
Photo courtesy of A&K’s Food Truck
If you fell in love with fare from Farm to Sandwich – a pandemic project that had a five-year run in the food truck circuit – chances are good you’ll be a fan of owner Bryan Chavez’s latest: Curbside Creperie. Trundling onto the scene in a classic ’72 Kurbmaster, this new concept introduces diners to a less common handheld. “Crepes felt like a good fit,” says Chavez. “They are a comfort food for many people and have the unique flavor profile of being sweet or savory.”
For meat lovers, “the Cubana is very popular,” he says. Filled with smoked pork shoulder, homemade pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard, “it’s a very humble and simple crepe with a ton of flavor.” Sweettooths line up for the Coffee Milk Crepe, with chocolate and house-made coffee mousse, while summer ushers in the ultimate seafood treat: the Baked Lobster Crepe with fresh herbs and bruleed bechamel sauce. Find a schedule of events or inquire about private bookings at CurbsideCreperie.com.
“The heart and vision behind Artisan Bites has always been about connection,” says Ashley Bove, whose love of cheese evolved from a grazing table and charcuterie side-hustle business into a food truck, and coming soon, a brick-and-mortar cafe in Cranston. It’s her goal to forge a space where folks can gather around a cup of espresso and a breakfast sandwich or burrata salad, or where they can bring a group of friends for a charcuterie workshop. In the meantime, watch for the truck at Phantom Farms Brewing in Cumberland,
Proclamation in Warwick, Ragged Island Brewing in Portsmouth, Vigilant Brewing in Bristol, and others to try bites like the Honey Truffle Grilled Cheese. With prosciutto and melty cheese, this crowd-pleaser has been lauded as “the best sandwich I’ve ever had” by fans. Whether it’s through hands-on classes, event catering, or inviting guests to the cafe, all of Bove’s offerings are “centered around the idea that food should be both delicious and meaningful. We’re not just serving meals; we’re helping create moments.” ArtisanBitesRI.com
Specialty crepes for every palate
Traveling charcuterie business opens a cafe
Providence glows at golden hour ABOUT DAVID @runofthemillshop
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.
