• Treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and associated pain
• Re-educate muscle and increaseblood flow
• Maintain or increase mandibular range of motion
The Scoop
7 PRIDE: A pandemic-born parade continues to bring awareness and build community
12 ARTS: RI band pays homage to their hometown
16 RHODY PETS: Adoptable pets of the month
18 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Concerns over sludge incinerator
20 RHODY HEALTH: Focusing on men’s health
22 RHODY GEM: Waffles worth crossing the state line for
23 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
Home & Style
41 HOME: A Narragansett bonus room becomes a family’s summer hub
46 SHOP: Chic goods for open-air living
48 RHODY READS: Watch Hill bestseller’s top nine TBR for summer
50 STYLE: History plus Housewives result in hot fashion looks
Feature
55 Summer of Soccer: The 2026 FIFA World Cup shines a global spotlight on the Ocean State
Food & Drink
65 IN THE KITCHEN: Meet the personal chef serving healthy meals
70 ROUND-UP: Cold, hot, or fancy: lobster rolls for every preference
74 EXPERIENCE: Food and drink flights in Coventry are a sampler’s delight
78 RECIPE: Make the most of strawberry season
Waterside Living:
80 SOUTH COUNTY SCENES
Jamestown, photo by Elyse Major
Photo courtesy of RI FC
Photo by Laura Ink Photography, courtesy of Katie King
Photo courtesy of South County Pride
in Matunuck. Photography by Abigail Burnham.
EAT FISH! LOVE LIFE!
CONTRIBUTORS
KEN ABRAMS
Managing Editor Ken Abrams joined Hey Rhody Media in 2018, and was appointed to his current position a year ago. He writes about the performing arts, live music, local sports, craft beer, and more. In this month’s “Summer of Soccer” (page 55), the sports fan takes a look inside the process of bringing the FIFA World Cup games to our neck of the woods.
PATTY JEFFREY
Lifelong Rhode Islander and longtime contributor Patty Jeffrey, known on social media and her eponymous blog simply as Patty J, shares our mission of finding and showcasing all things hyper-local. In this month’s “Savoring Rhody” she turns her focus to lobster rolls. If you’re a fan of the sandwich, flip to page 70 for her top eight picks – and why.
KAREN KALUNIAN
With her tireless devotion to helping rescue pets get adopted from shelters, each month, animal advocate Karen Kalunian sends us a trio of furry faces with descriptions for Rhody Pets of the Month . Additionally, she hosts Animal Talk , a digital series on Ocean State Media. Turn to page 16 to meet an adorable group of furry friends seeking their forever homes.
BRITT MACHADO
During her relatively short time living in Little Rhody, Britt Machado has already become familiar with many under-the-radar local makers and brands, which she showcases on the Shop page. For June, she’s all about decking outdoor spaces in “Unapologetically Al Fresco” (page 46). When she’s not working, find the award-winning founder/designer of JohnnyCakes, off on adventures with her dog Roxie.
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Theresa S. Carrington South County & East Bay Theresa@HeyRhody.com
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THE SCOOP
Pride | Art | Rhody Pets | Ocean State Media | Rhody Health | Rhody Gem | Calendar
Beaming with Pride
With community support, the lockdown vision of two high school students has grown into an annual festival
By Thom Cahir
n the darkest hours of the COVID lockdown, former South Kingstown High School student Magnolia Longworth dared to dream of a way to circumvent the mass cancellations. With fellow organizer Evan Travis, the two established an event that has quickly become one of South County’s most vibrant annual traditions: the South County Pride Parade. What began in 2020 as a scrappy, socially distanced car parade has since grown into something far bigger – a bold, joyful expression of visibility, belonging, and Washington County identity.
South County Pride (SCP) distinguishes itself from larger metropolitan Pride festivals by emphasizing hyper-local engagement and envisioning something more intimate than an urban display: a celebration rooted in familiar faces, neighborhood businesses, and intergenerational participation. The goal was not simply visibility but belonging; demonstrating that LGBTQIA+ life and history are not confined to city centers but are embedded everywhere. Following the success of the 2021 parade, Longworth and Travis made it their mission to ensure the event’s continuity. As her senior class project, Longworth created the South County Pride Foundation, and through generous sponsorships and donations from local and statewide entities, the foundation has awarded multiple “Elder” and “Youth” scholarships since 2024.
Coming out of the pandemic and being centered on Main Street in Wakefield, the volunteer board realized the importance of community building. Their most important connection was with The Contemporary Theater Company, where they were welcomed by General Manager Maggie Cady, who says the theater’s riverfront patio was the perfect setting for a festival. “Theater has always been a place where LGBTQIA+ folks can come to feel safe and express themselves, and that is vitally important to us,” she notes. “Our mission is to build the culture of our local, global, and artistic communities as we want them to be: inclusive, supportive, ambitious, playful, and kind.”
Other partners include the Gender and Sexuality Center (GSC) at the University of Rhode Island and Queer South County. With a footprint that ripples outward from Kingston, the University has become a key supporter, and Manuela Vadis, assistant director of the GSC, describes their cooperation not only by co-hosting programs, but also by building a more coordinated ecosystem of support that advances belonging by “creating leadership and engagement pathways for students, and strengthening initiatives that combat bias.”
South County Pride returns to the Contemporary Theater June 13
Photo courtesy of South County Pride
Partnering with Queer South County (QSC), the foundation sought to support the LGBTQIA+ community by helping it thrive locally through regular meetups, events, and making resources available. Organizer Marissa Giroux of QSC explains, “Our partnership with SCP is mutually beneficial because we plan events year-round to continue supporting the rural queer community. We are able to fundraise through their incredible organization to help offset the costs of events, so they are not cost-prohibitive for attendees.”
LeClair points to the success they’ve achieved, but also looks forward to expanding their outreach to strengthen their donor base.
They’re quick to point out the generosity of the Wakefield Village Association for promoting the parade every year and scheduling RiverFire events in coordination with Pride celebrations. This year’s South County Pride Festival is scheduled for June 13 from noon to 7pm and continues to expand in both scale and significance. The afternoon features not only a parade but also live music, drag performances, storytelling, and a wide array of local vendors and community organizations, food trucks, and performers on outdoor stages, where families can mingle alongside activists, artists, and small business owners. Learn more at SouthCountyPride.org.
Photo courtesy of South County Pride
The rain date for the South County Pride Festival is July 11
e know how important your home is to your well-being. As custom home builders for nearly 40 years, we have crafted and restored coastal and luxury homes in Rhode Island and throughout New England. Our goal is to create spaces that allow you and your family to thrive.
Raw, Real, and Rough Around the Edges
Tick’s summer tour kicks off with three album release
By Ken Abrams
Rhode Island’s reigning rock and roll champions are back with an outstanding new release, CoinO-Matic , the title a nod to the former Federal Hill headquarters of the notorious mob boss Raymond Patriarca (worth a Google search). Released June 5, the album is a brutally honest tribute to the capital city, featuring a sound that is gritty, courageous, and unmistakably Providence. The quartet –John McCauley, Ian O’Neil, Dennis Ryan, and Christopher Ryan – paint a vivid portrait of a time and place where working-class struggles play out, weaving together songs steeped in desperation, loss, redemption, and resilience; a heartfelt tribute to an aging city.
We caught up with songwriters McCauley and O’Neil recently at the PTX Lounge in
Pawtuxet Village, where, keeping it real, both occasionally glanced at their phones – not to update their Instagram, but, like the rest of us, just checking in on kids and family going about their daily routines. Over a dirty martini or two, the pair shared a few details about how the new album came together over the past several years.
For McCauley, who spent a decade living in Nashville, “it feels like a weird kind of homecoming album – all of it was written after I moved back here. I hadn’t called Rhode Island home in quite some time.” Recorded in the band’s home studio, the album was entirely self-produced. “It was a special experience because we decided to do it all ourselves,” says O’Neil. “We took a big leap of faith, relying on one another. In the past, at least for me, working with a producer was
like having a fifth opinion, a good reassurance. This time, I relied on these three guys to make sure my ideas weren’t stupid or crazy.” “Instead of having one cook, we had four cooks in the kitchen,” adds McCaulley.
For a band that just turned 21, it sounds too easy to say the new record shows a level of sophistication not found on previous releases, but that’s honestly the best way to describe it. Wellpaced, with compelling lyrics and fully involved arrangements across a variety of styles, Deer Tick reaches a new level of musical maturity on this album. “Mary Singletary,” the advance single, is a straight-ahead, Petty-esque rocker, already gaining traction on independent radio. Penned as a Dylan-like confessional (like several on the release), the song checks all the boxes, and is literally set in a church confessional.
Deer
shows in Matunuck
Photo by Richard McCaffrey, courtesy of Deer Tick
Deer Tick members Ian O’Neil, Christopher Ryan, Dennis Ryan and John McCauley
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
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RHODE ISLAND DIRECT PRIMARY CARE
Once labeled indie-rock, McCauley isn’t joking when he says Coin-O-Matic is a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll. “One of the reasons I wanted us to make this album is that I think Rhode Island deserves to be a contender for a place that people sing about,” he says. “Sonically, there’s nothing country about it, but to me it feels like a country record set in an urban environment – there’s definitely some outlaws in there that aren’t normally in storytelling country songs, like drug dealers and mafiosos.”
The album should strike a chord with Deer Tick fans wherever they live. “I feel like this is just a record about any hometown,” adds McCauley. “I think anybody
DR. LETITIA HORRIGAN, DO DEANNA WRIGHT, MSN, AGNP-C, BSN
Photo by Ken Abrams
Guitarist McCauley founded the band in 2004
can kind of see a little bit of where they grew up and these songs. And there’s going to be a big uptick on the ACI being Googled,” he laughs.
No other band in recent memory has built songs around the city of Providence quite like Deer Tick, a tradition that continues here. This album isn’t a portrait of a shiny city on seven hills; more often, it’s a story of the gritty, resilient underbelly that can chew you up and spit you out – and just as quickly, wrap you up in a bear hug when you’re down and out. Check out Deer Tick on their summer tour which kicks off at the Ocean Mist in Matunuck with three album release shows June 5-7. Learn more at DeerTickMusic.com
Rhody Pets of the Month
By Karen Kalunian
Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home?
Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around South County and across the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are three pets ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees.
If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.
BELLA
BREED: Mixed
AGE: 6 years
GENDER: Female
Meet Bella! She’s got the biggest smile, the biggest heart, and loves to explore. A medium-sized mixed breed, you could say that she’s “mixed to perfection.” Her favorite pastime is getting yummy treats and sniffing around – she doesn’t want to miss a thing. Bella will make a great family pet and would love a fenced-in yard, but no cats for her. If you fall in love with Bella’s smile, give the shelter a call and make a plan to meet her.
NORTH KINGSTOWN ANIMAL SHELTER
401-910-8999; nkassf1@gmail.com
MAPLE CHEX
BREED: Tabby
AGE: 2 years
GENDER: Female
Maple is just one of a large group of cats taken in by the shelter recently. She’s shy but longs for gentle and slow interactions. Maple requires an adult, patient, loving home, hoping to adopt her with one of the other cats that remain from the group she arrived with. Visit all of these gorgeous cats to see which ones you fall in love with – the staff will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
RISPCA
401-383-1900; cats@rispca.org
Bella Maple Chex
Photo (L and center) by Karen Kalunian
GOMEZ
BREED: Mixed
AGE: 2 years
GENDER: Male
Gomez is all ears, and he’s waiting to hear the words “You’re adopted!” He’s everything wonderful wrapped into an adorable little package. At just 12 pounds, he’s the cutest little guy around. Gomez loves car rides, leash walks, yummy treats, and snuggling with his blankie. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, don’t miss out on Gomez –be sure to go and meet him in person.
SAVE ONE SOUL jocelyn@sosarl.org
Nobody Wants It: Rhode Island’s Sludge Problem Lands in North Kingstown
As Woonsocket’s incinerator winds down, Rhode Island must decide where its “biosolids” go next
In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org
• By David Wright
Most Rhode Islanders don’t think about what happens after they flush. But that question is becoming harder to ignore. As one of the region’s main sludge incinerators starts winding down, it’s sparking a fight over where the waste should go next. A proposed new sludge processing plant in Quonset Business Park has drawn sharp concern from residents of North Kingstown concerned about pollution, odor, and the use of relatively new technology.
At a recent packed meeting at North Kingstown High School, people lined up for hours to voice their opposition to the project. “You may not be aware, but all of these projects are right on top of our aquifer,” said resident Joe Texiera. “If chemicals get in that water, you will destroy the town.” Others bluntly focused on more immediate concerns. “Well, for one thing, it’s probably going to stink,” said Patricia O’Conner.
The proposal, backed by a Rhode Island renewable energy company called Green Solutions, comes as the state grapples with how to handle what are known as “biosolids” – the treated sludge left over after wastewater is processed.
A SYSTEM UNDER PRESSURE
Every day, Rhode Island treats millions of gallons of wastewater. At the Woonsocket Wastewater Treatment Facility alone, more than nine million gallons are processed daily. After treatment, the remaining solids are typically incinerated. Woonsocket is one of the state’s primary locations for doing that, handling sludge from dozens of communities across the region.
But that system is beginning to break down.
“The sludge incinerator in Woonsocket is failing,” said state Rep. Jon Brien, whose district includes Woonsocket and North Smithfield. “We are not spending more taxpayer dollars to keep it open.” City officials have already begun reducing how much sludge the facility takes in, part of a broader effort to phase out operations over the next few years.
That leaves Rhode Island facing a difficult
choice: develop a new in-state solution, or send the waste elsewhere at significantly higher cost.
“Let’s face it,” state Rep. Terri Cortvriend told a legislative committee, “none of us are going to want it in our town if they come and ask us.”
A NEW PROPOSAL — AND NEW CONCERNS
The project proposed for Quonset would use a process known as pyrolysis – a high-heat method that breaks down material in a low-oxygen environment. Developers say the approach is cleaner than traditional incineration methods and would essentially be pollution-free. “We’re not pursuing a typical incineration project,” said Hannah Morini of Green Development, the company behind the project. “We are pursuing pyrolysis.”
Project manager Matt Ursillo described the process as heating material to very high temperatures. The gases produced during pyrolysis would be captured, contained, and reused to help power the facility. The remaining material, known as biochar, can be used as a raw material in products like water filtration systems, deodorant, shoe soles, and construction materials. The company already operates a small pyrolysis plant in Quonset, using wood chips rather than sewage sludge.
Supporters say the technology represents an efficient new method for disposing of sludge. But its use for sewage sludge is still relatively limited, with only a small number of similar facilities operating in the United States, including a big new plant in Redwood City, California.
SKEPTICISM FROM RESIDENTS AND LEADERS
Despite those assurances, many residents remain unconvinced. “We’re being asked to accept an unproven technology right in our backyard, next door to schools, parks and neighborhoods,” said North Kingstown resident Sean Taylor.
Quonset is also close to a major aquifer. “We live in a state where we supposedly care so much about the environment,” said resident Maria Valenti. “You turn around and they’re building a
A new sludge processing plant proposed for the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown drew sharp concern from residents at a Town Council meeting Monday, April 27
sludge facility. It just doesn’t make any sense.”
The advocacy group North Kingstown Residents for Clean Air and Water is suing the state agencies charged with regulating the sludge facility, saying they failed to consider the health and environmental effects of the project.
The issue has also spilled into state politics, briefly taking center stage in the Rhode Island governor’s race. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Helena Foulkes voiced her opposition last week, warning about potential impacts on air and water quality. Gov. Dan McKee quickly followed suit and is now pledging to do everything in his power to stop the project from going forward.
“My hope is that Quonset sees that this is a dead project,” McKee told North Kingstown residents. “It’s either going to have a slow death or a long death, but either way, in the end, this project is not going to happen.”
For now, the Quonset proposal is effectively on hold, as state lawmakers prepare to create a study commission to evaluate long-term solutions for sludge disposal. But even as that debate plays out, the underlying issue remains unresolved. Rhode Island still produces large amounts of sewage sludge every day. As existing facilities wind down, the state must decide where it will go next.
This article was originally posted on April 29, 2026. David Wright can be reached at dwright@OceanStateMedia.org.
Photo by David Wright, courtesy of Ocean State Media
Celebrate Men’s Health
Month by building long-term well-being with small steps
In partnership with South County Health
By Sarah Toatley
J Rhody Health
une is Men’s Health Month, a timely reminder that taking care of your health isn’t just about reacting to illness, but actively building habits that support long-term well-being. While many men prioritize work, family, and responsibilities, their own health often slips down the list. The good news? Small steps can make a powerful difference. Prevention, awareness, and early action are cornerstones of a healthier life. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 70s, it’s never too early – or too late –to start making your health a priority.
Start with Preventive Care
One of the simplest yet most impactful steps men can take is scheduling a routine checkup. Annual physicals provide a baseline for health and can detect early warning signs before they become serious issues. Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI) are all key indicators that a healthcare provider will likely monitor. These screenings can help identify risks for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions that often develop silently. Preventive care also includes screenings tailored to your age and risk factors.
Don’t Skip Prostate Health Conversations
Prostate health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of men’s wellness. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, yet early detection significantly improves outcomes. “Prostate screening is a personal decision that should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider,” says South County Health Chief of Urology
Arnold Sarazen, MD. “Discussing your individual risk factors including age, family history, and lifestyle, can help determine the right approach for you.” Men over 45, or over 40 for those at higher risk, should talk openly with their provider about whether screening is appropriate. These conversations are key to making informed, confident health decisions.
Keep Up with Vaccinations
Vaccinations aren’t just for children, they’re an essential part of adult health, too.
Staying up to date on recommended vaccines helps protect the entire community. “Annual flu vaccination is one of the simplest ways to protect your health and avoid serious illness,” notes Primary Care Provider Diane McKeff, APRN. “It’s a quick step that can prevent missed work, complications, and even hospitalization.” In addition to the flu shot, a provider may recommend vaccines for COVID-19, shingles, pneumonia, and tetanus, depending on a patient’s age and health status.
Build Healthy Habits That Last
Lasting health doesn’t come from one big change; it’s the result of small, consistent actions over time. Start with manageable goals: take a daily walk, swap sugary drinks for water, or schedule that overdue appointment. For smokers, consider quitting: this single step can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and lung disease. For those who drink alcohol, moderation is strongly recommended. Sleep is another often overlooked factor. Aim for seven to nine hours per night to support energy, mood, and overall health.
Diane McKeeff, APRN, consults with a patient
ARNOLD SARAZEN, MD
Chief
of Urology, South County Health
DIANE MCKEEFF, APRN Assistant Medical Director, Primary Care, South County Health SOUTH COUNTY HEALTH 100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield 401-782-8000 • SouthCountyHealth.org
Waffle Pop Sweet Shop
Desserts
What it is:
Build-your-own made-to-order waffles with toppings, plus real-fruit slushies, gelato, and sorbettos.
Where to find it:
Just across the state line into Pawcatuck, CT, look for the three-story house with a wrap-around porch along Broad Street.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
“Waffle Pop Sweet Shop was born from a simple but sweet idea: bring joy to the community, one handcrafted treat at a time,” says Emily Logan, a military veteran who goes by “Mama” with a heart for service and a love of sweets. “What started as a signature concept – warm, fluffy waffle pops made fresh and customized to each guest –quickly grew into a beloved stop for families, friends, and anyone craving a little moment of happiness. Guests can smother, drizzle, dip, and sprinkle their waffle pops exactly how they like, turning dessert into a personal experience,” says Logan. “We love encouraging screen-free moments, whether that’s laughing over board games, sharing a waffle pop creation, or simply enjoying time with one another.” The shop also hosts Dine to Donate events to support local causes. In addition to those warm fluffy waffles, favorites include all-organic, real-fruit slushies, and artisanal gelato and sorbettos. “They offer a cool, creamy, or dairy-free escape that’s perfect for hot summer days!”
Waffle Pop Sweet Shop
110 West Broad Street, Pawcatuck 860-772-9020
WafflePopCT.com
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool, unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours, and we just might feature it!
P hoto courtesy of Waffle Pop Sweet Shop
The Must List
For weekly Musts, subscribe to our newsletter at HeyRhody.com
June 3, 10, 17, 24: The family-friendly Summer Market returns to Tilted Barn every Wednesday through August, with a rotating lineup of vendors and makers selling locally grown produce, apparel, and gifts, plus live music and food trucks. Exeter, TiltedBarnBrewery.com
June 6-7: Shop original jewelry, sculpture, pottery, paintings, and photography from artist-vendors, with a suggested donation of a canned good for the NK Food Pantry at Open Studios at The Mill at Shady Lea. North Kingstown,TheMillAtShadyLea.com
June 7: Find one-of-a-kind ocean-themed creations when The Sea Glass Festival comes to the Windjammer. Enjoy a cocktail and shop local, all while supporting Stand Up for Animals and other area charities. Westerly, Facebook: Sea Glass Festival
June 12-13: Gardens by the Sea is a fundraiser for the Stonington Garden Club, offering a walking tour of gardens in Stonington Borough. Donations fund community projects, scholarships, and grant programs. Stonington, CT, StoningtonGardenClub.org
June 13: Swing for a great cause at the Brad Friel Memorial Golf Classic, an all-day affair starting with check-in and lunch, followed by a raw bar and prime dinner, raffles, and awards after a day of golf for a good cause. Hope Valley, CharihoRotary.com
June 17: The Red, White, and Bloom Garden Party is an elegant affair at Ocean House to celebrate the 250th year of America’s independence. Patriotic-themed cocktails and bites, plus live bluegrass music are planned. Westerly, OceanChamber.org
June 18: Enjoy an evening of salty, seaside bliss with family and friends at Wickford HarborFire , including bars and restaurants, food trucks, and one-of-a-kind shopping. Runs monthly through October. North Kingstown, WickfordVillage.org
June 20: Learn about diverse plantings and sustainable practices at the Cross Mills Library biennial Gardens by the Sea tour, followed by an en plein air art auction to benefit the library. Rain or shine. Charlestown, CrossMills.org
June 20-21: The Narragansett Art Festival , an annual volunteer-run event organized by the Rotary Club of Wakefield, returns to Veterans Park and Gazebo Field. The festival features dozens of artists showcasing their work in a variety of media. Narragansett, WakefieldRotary.org
June 26: Don’t miss the Summer Soirée , a fundraiser for the Jamestown Art Center that includes artwork, seasonal savories, cocktails, and more. Take part in the live auction and grab your dancing shoes for an unforgettable night. Jamestown, JamestownArtCenter.org
The Summer Market at Tilted Barn Brewery has live music every Wednesday
Hearing
Waterside Living
Rhode Islanders share the appeal of life in a coastal neighborhood
BY ELYSE MAJOR
In the Ocean State, you’re never far from a body of water, whether it’s the bay, a lake or pond, or the ocean. While tourist destinations dominate the national spotlight, it’s the quiet neighborhoods, steps from the shore, that embody the feeling of a quintessential summer for Rhode Islanders. In these coastal communities, cars are reserved for bulky grocery runs while basketed bikes and boats are the preferred modes of transport. Sandy floors aren’t just tolerated; they’re the welcome sign of a day well spent, and the appeal of living life where the sea meets the sky is completed by towels hanging out to dry and dinner served at the picnic table.
“Conimicut Point is one of the very best spots in the state for watching the fireworks. They are all around you on the Fourth of July” says resident Mike Ryan. Adoration for the water and a serendipitous opportunity prompted Ryan, his parents, and siblings, to purchase a house in Conimicut Village, a neighborhood in eastern Warwick far removed from
the hustle-and-bustle largely associated with the sprawling city. By day, the Ryans are the purveyors behind Mapleville Farm in Burrillville, where they sell scratch-made baked goods, flowers, produce and other provisions, and host events. “The house is in a sheltered cove pretty far up the bay, and it’s a pedestrian dream!” says Ryan, adding that the Conimicut
Village Association is very active, and has been so welcoming. “They encourage everybody to be involved and invested, in an old town meeting kind of way,” says Ryan. “Most of our fun time revolves around the water. We swim, we fish, we dig quahogs, we float on giant floaties and putter around in questionably seaworthy small boats,” he chuckles.
Conimicut Lighthouse marks the mouth of the Providence River as it empties into Narragansett Bay
Many fireworks displays can be seen from Conimicut Point Park, Warwick
P hoto (top) courtesy of Conimicut Village Association, (bottom) courtesy of PWCVB
Keturah’s Dream Earl Knightwood Band Roger Ceresi, Richard Ribb, & Jon Hathaway The Complaints Dean Adams Street45 Band Oblivious Fools Edge of Dreams Rory and the Blues Hounds
The Hitmen Keturah’s Dream Porch Rockers For The Record Street45 Band The Complaints Makin’ Waves Dean Adams Papa Dukes
The Hitmen Oblivious Fools
Let’s Jaunt
Set your GPS to avoid highways and enjoy a day of exploring these waterfront communities.
Common Fence Point (CFP), Portsmouth
Start here: CFP Arts, Wellness, and Community Center, CFP Playground, Mil’s Marsh
Conimicut Village, Warwick
Start here: Bloom Patisserie, Conimicut Lighthouse, Conimicut Village Community Market
Start here: Fellini’s Pizzeria, Pawtuxet Bridge, Pawtuxet Park
Stonebridge, Tiverton
Start here: Coastal Roasters, Dune Brothers, The Red Dory
Conimicut Village signage
A picnic table breakfast with treats from nearby Bloom Patisserie
Like many seaside areas in Rhode Island, steamboats and railways brought affluent folks, who built summer houses in the mid-1800s. Across the bay, Riverside was once known as the “Coney Island of the East;” in Conimicut there was the Mark Rock Hotel, which went from swanky to unsavory. “Like a lot of houses in the neighborhood, ours started as a small beach cottage more than a century ago and grew progressively outward by way of additions. It’s basically a series of sheds bolted together into a nebulous whole. Not a single wall in the place is square to another, and it all loosely fits into a floor plan that’s a rhombus with an awkward peninsula,” says Ryan, who lets us in on the family joke that their house was built by boat builders, because nothing’s straight, but it mostly doesn’t leak. “We love it because it’s loaded with idiosyncratic charm and good feels, even if it’s the second ugliest house on the street!”
Idyllic charm, off West Shore Road
Emily Burns is a familiar face in South Kingstown’s beach village of Matunuck, serving as the general manager of the Admiral Dewey Inn, a historic 12-room hotel that, as she points out –“is the tallest point in Matunuck!” Burns moved to South County with her family when she was six, left briefly after college but returned. “I love it here. The beach, boating, hiking trails, fresh seafood and farm stands. And the food scene!” Within a small footprint, there are myriad dining and drink options, and Burns quickly rattles off Ocean Mist and The Pub, Seaview Market for quality sandwiches, Vanilla Bean – “an essential for ice cream” – and Matunuck Pizza Pie Company. “Matunuck comes alive for the Fourth of July, with excellent bands playing at the Ocean Mist, and nearby, Wakefield hosts its spectacular annual fireworks display at Old Mountain Field.” Smiling, she adds, “Matunuck is a destination that is enjoyable year-round.”
In the northern part of the state, Tom Fecteau, an assistant district manager for Rhode Island state parks, has called Keech Pond in Glocester home for 40 years. He lives there with his wife, Amanda, and their baby daughter, right next door to his parents’ house, which his father built in the 70s. “She can grow up like I did and enjoy the water,” he says with palpable joy. “We boat a ton with our pontoon boat, and there’s always kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards ready for friends and family. There’s fishing all summer, and almost every night I’ll have the campfire going down by the water.” Fecteau says that there are a couple of small farmstands with sourdough and baked goods within walking distance but everything else is just a short car ride away. As for celebrating the Fourth: “We all know what houses do fireworks, so we go out on those nights in the boats and watch.”
Photos by Abigail Burnham
The Atlantic is the backyard for these Matunuck homes
Live the Life
Within the town of Narragansett, there are 13 villages and hamlets, most of which swell in size during the summer months due to close proximity to ocean beaches, plus being a coveted East Coast spot for surfers. Since 1945, the Durkin family has been selling and renting cottages, houses, and condos, and giving folks – many who live in state – a taste of beachy living. With over 150 homes – from snug studios for solo travelers to an 11-bedroom house perfect for a family reunion – enjoy reviewing listings offering amenities like beachfront, walk-to-beach, walkto-pond, and pond views. Just, remember to BYO your own sheets, towels, and soaps, as these are rental homes, not hotels.
Point Break Cottages Matunuck, PointBreakCottages.com
The Willows Inn & Resort Charlestown, WillowsCountry.com
Cottage Camping
Burlingame State Campground Charlestown, RIParks.RI.gov
George Washington Campground Chepachet, RIParks.RI.gov
Sandra Bonazoli and Jim Dowd, the creative duo behind Beehive Handmade, a pewter studio and retail space in Warren, have lived in Tiverton’s Stonebridge neighborhood for 25 years. “We were the first people to buy our house,” Bonazoli begins. “It was built in 1918, but had been in the Grinnell family since it was built and never sold.” The couple was instantly smitten. “It looked just like a traditional old summer cottage with shingles and white paint, a wrap-around
porch, and matchstick paneling everywhere. We thought our little house would be our starter house, but we just never left!” says Bonazoli, who enjoys their vacation-like routine of watching the sunset over the water every night over a coffee or cocktails. Despite the section being old and historic, she describes it as warm and accessible. “There are fireworks, a parade, and townwide celebration at Grinnell’s beach for July Fourth,” says Bonazoli. It’s a great neighborhood!”
Year-round vacation vibes in Stonebridge
A sunset view of Goose Island, from a cottage on Great Island
P hoto
(top) courtesy of Durkin Cottages, (bottom) courtesy of Sandra Bonazoli
Clever Solutions for Every Closet
A stone’s throw from where the Pawtuxet River flows into the Providence River and Narragansett Bay is Pawtuxet Village, a charming area where your address could be Cranston or Warwick, and where Kristy Knoedler has lived year-round (on the Cranston side) with her family since 2005. “It provides both the benefit of coastal access and the quaint, hometown
vibe I was looking for,” says Knoedler. The location also offers easy commutes to both Fellini Pizzerias, her popular two-chain eatery, plus easy access to highways and beaches. “I enjoy all of the great dining and entertainment in the village, and I also take the time to enjoy the scenic pathways and waterfronts like Gaspee Point and Salter Memorial Grove,” she adds.
The historic district also bursts with pride for the burning of the Gaspee, the first hostile act against the Crown, celebrated each June with a parade that boasts fife and drum corps and the Shriners in their miniature cars, a road race, fireworks, a stirring reenactment, and more. “We have history dating back through the colonial era,” says Knoedler. “How cool is that?”
Pawtuxet Village is a hidden gem minutes from Providence
Bicycles make getting around Block Island a breeze
Don’t miss July corn at Morris Farm, Warwick
A surprise coastal view behind shops along Watch Hill Road, Westerly
Photos by Elyse Major
MORE TO EXPLORE...
Adamsville, Little Compton
Annaquatucket, North Kingstown
Ashaway, Hopkinton
Buttonwoods, Warwick
Camp Russell, Glocester
Chepachet, Glocester
Common Fence Point, Portsmouth
Conimicut, Warwick
Echo Lake, Pascoag
Gaspee Point, Warwick
Georgiaville, Smithfield
Great Island, Narragansett
Hope Valley, Hopkinton
Indian Lake, Wakefield
Island Park, Portsmouth
Jerusalem, Narragansett
Johnson’s Pond, Coventry
Keech Pond, Chepachet
Longmeadow, Warwick
Matunuck, South Kingstown
Narragansett Terrace, East Providence
Nausauket, Warwick
New Shoreham, Block Island
North Scituate, Scituate
Oakland Beach, Warwick
Old Harbor, Block Island
Pawtuxet Village, Cranston & Warwick
The Point, Newport
Point Judith, Narragansett
Potowomut, Warwick
Prudence Island, Portsmouth
Quonochontaug, Charlestown
Riverside, East Providence
Spring Lake, Burrillville
Stonebridge, Tiverton
Tiverton Four Corners, Tiverton
Touisset, Warren
Warwick Neck, Warwick
Watch Hill, Westerly
Wickford Village, North Kingstown
Wilson Reservoir, Burrillville
Some places in Portsmouth have changed names over the years, but Common Fence Point was the name used in 1638, and it is the name used today. It’s where Brenda Brock, founder of fine herbal skincare brand Farmaethetics and her husband Paul Barclay De Tollay, a fine furniture designer, have made their home for 28 years. The pair chose the area for its natural, protected environment, views of Mount Hope Bay (that include the
famous Bristol fireworks display in July), and verdant marshlands. Brock, an avid gardener, especially appreciates the conserved shoreline and all the wildlife. “There are turtles, birds of all kinds, coyotes, you name it!” her subtle Texas drawl revealing itself. She also loves the serenity, given that the neighborhood is on a peninsula. “There’s one way in and one way out, so that keeps things on the quieter side and still quaint,” says Brock. “And I love that.”
The Sakonnet River Bridge connects Common Fence Point to the mainland
Toni Chandler’s flower stand near Hussey Bridge in Wickford
P hoto (top) by Elyse Major, (bottom) courtesy of Laureen Koch, Edge Realty
’
’t guesses they’re strategy.
THIS PREMIER EVENT TAKES PLACE AT THE VETERANS PARK AND GAZEBO FIELD AT THE HISTORIC “TOWERS” OVERLOOKING NARRAGANSETT BAY.
JANET HERMES, SALES ASSOCIATE
HOME & STYLE
Home | Shop | Rhody Reads | Style
Bright Idea
A bonus room gets redesigned for all-ages family fun
By Ann Martini
Have you ever heard someone say that a house has “great bones?” These are often the most desirable abodes because they feature wellbuilt foundations, high-quality framing, or solid architectural details that provide a canvas for customization. These homes are storytellers… accumulating modifications through the years that accommodate growing families, empty nesters, or trendy renovations. Such is the case of a 1967 ranch in Narragansett. Set along the quiet edge of a salt pond, this home tells a distinctly Rhode Island story – one shaped as much by generations of summer rituals as by thoughtful architectural evolution. This home has, over decades, expanded and adapted into a layered coastal retreat designed for gathering.
Photo by Liz Daly,
by
A warm white/beige (Natural Cream by Benjamin Moore) provides a backdrop for the window bed and trundle, designed by House of Winsor Interiors and built by Glenn Baller & Co out of Mystic, CT.
Owned by a retired couple who have long summered along the coast (and wintered in Florida), the house now serves as a seasonal anchor for a growing family that includes their three adult children and eight grandchildren. The owners were first drawn to what East Greenwich-based interior designer Lauren Winsor describes as “the waterfront setting and private dock on the salt pond,” a rare balance of seclusion and access. “The property allows them to entertain generously while still enjoying the quiet rhythm of coastal life,” Winsor explains.
A major renovation in 2012 reimagined the home
for ease and flow, prioritizing first-floor living and spaces that could accommodate a steady stream of guests. The latest addition – a 640-square-foot bonus room above the garage – extends that ethos.
“The goal was to create a space that could serve multiple purposes without compromise,” says Winsor. Outfitted with a custom window bed, trundle, convertible sofa, and ample storage, the room easily transitions from sleepover central to movie lounge to game room. At its center, a custom ping pong table by Providence’s Edge and End Studio doubles as a gathering surface for puzzles, cards, and dominoes.
The custom ping pong table was designed by House of Winsor Interiors and built by Edge and End in Providence. The table is walnut and white oak with a hand-caned net that is removable so the family can play games and puzzles. The wall hangings of The Breakers, beach scenes, and racquet collage are vintage finds.
Photo by Liz Daly, styling by Kerryn Connolly
Throughout, the design remains cohesive and quietly assured. “Our goal was cohesion – ensuring the FROG (finished room over garage!) felt fully integrated with the main home, as if completed in one thoughtful phase,” Winsor notes. The palette draws directly from the landscape: “We leaned slightly patriotic and into a classic New England feel,” she says, layering
whites, creams, and coastal blues with subtle touches of red. “You know you’re by the water, even when it is out of sight.”
Integral to the home’s character is the owner’s background as an antiques dealer. “Blending collected pieces with new custom work gives the space depth and authenticity,” Winsor explains. Furnishings sourced from
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Local Luxuries
Lauren Winsor dishes on how to be your own best designer. “We always work with local businesses and trades on our construction projects,” says Winsor. “The happiest elements in the project are those created by local artists – the ping pong table by Edge and End and artwork on the walls by Narragansett artist Marilyn Saaybe. Collected treasures from Brimfield and regional antique shops add history and personal narrative, which ultimately makes the space feel lived-in rather than newly constructed,” she says. “The light fixtures on this project are both Visual Comfort/Chapman & Myers – Myers is a Rhode Islander and friend!”
Backyard Finds
“Beyond the color palette, there is some amazing artwork with local scenes,” says Winsor. She shares that the painting of the waterfront at the breakers is a vintage find. Antiques on this project were sourced from some great shops including Consignments Ltd. in Wakefield, and The Corner Cupboard and RE Antiques, both in North Kingstown.
Outside In
“Let your surroundings guide you,” Winsor advises. “The setting of this project was a big influence on the design. The blue sky and water dotted by white sailboats on the salt pond were a big inspiration for the overall color palate. We carried the blue and white through all the textiles in the room –rugs, upholstery, drapery and pillows.” Learn more at HouseOfWinsorInteriors.com
nearby resale shops sit comfortably alongside contemporary elements, while local artwork reinforces the home’s coastal sense of place. In the end, it’s a house dictated by purpose. “Let your surroundings guide you,” Winsor reflects. Here, the water, sky, and enduring pull of a Rhode Island summer have done exactly that.
Photo by Liz Daly, styling by Kerryn Connolly
Work by local artists lends authentic atmosphere
Unapologetically Al Fresco
Favorite picks to celebrate a well-earned season
By Britt Machado
At last, it’s that glorious time of year when living, eating, and playing can happen outside. While a Wednesday afternoon run to the beach is entirely encouraged, the right lounge chair will zhush-up everything from a work call to a raucous dinner party. Our favorite entertaining hack: mix a batch of cocktails to refill a statement pitcher (work smarter, not harder). Never shy away from a seafood maximalist aesthetic (when in Rome or Rhody…) and even the most hurried re-plantings will look amazing in a hand-crafted vessel. Make the most of your summer playtime. You’ve certainly earned it.
Guy Wolff White Pot Garden Bowl Cottage and Garden, Newport CottageAndGardenNewport.com
Grand Traverse Chaise
Porch and Patio, Warwick PorchAndPatioCasual.com
Messermeister Oyster Knife Wald and Sea, Newport WaldAndSea.com
Viski Art Deco Highball Glass Modern Love, Providence ShopQueenOfHearts.com
Stormy Seas Woven Placemat Bristol Looms, Bristol BristolLooms.com
Hand-blown Ribbon Pitcher
Providence Art Glass and Lighting, Cumberland ProvidenceArtGlass.com
Citronella Sea Salt Outdoor Incense
OMO Jewels and Gifts, Westerly OMOJewels.com
Rhody Reads
Nine new books for your summer beach bag
By Deborah Goodrich Royce
Is there anything better than a great book on a Rhode Island summer day? I’ve assembled nine books to keep you busy turning pages all season long.
May 6 brought Providence writer Diane Josefowicz’s locked room mystery, The Great Houses of Pill Hill . When New England decorator Hannah “Cookie” Cooke is hired to redo a historic house and the owner turns up dead, the detective on the case is sure the answer lies in one of Cookie’s miniature reproduction crime scenes. A contemporary take on classic noir, this is a deliciously chilling tale.
New York Times bestseller Phyllis Karas released Curse of the Blumenthals on May 19. After a car accident in 1935 kills six members of his bootlegging family, Ronnie Blumenthal is born six months later. A golden child until his own arrest in 1954 for murder, Ronnie pleads guilty and dies in a pauper’s grave. But what really happened over three generations of secrets, crimes, and lies?
Annabel Monaghan is back with Dolly All the Time . Dolly Brick returns to coastal Rhode Island every summer with her teenage son to help her dad run the family fish market. When she gets talked into faking a romance with Steward Whitfield, scion of the wealthiest family in town, feelings she never knew she was capable of are aroused. Ocean House Author Series: June 24
What if Marilyn Monroe hadn’t died? May 26 saw the publication of Lois Cahall’s intriguing reimagining, Maybe Marilyn . Monroe’s housekeeper and psychiatrist were supposedly the only two people to ever see her dead. Five hours elapsed before authorities were contacted. What if they helped her get away, recreate herself, and live the taste of freedom she had never been granted?
June 9 brings epic adventure on the high seas. The Stargazer of Nantucket by Barrington resident Julie Gerstenblatt, tells the tale of Winifred Starbuck, a girl desperate to leave Nantucket in 1851 to join her parents in bustling San Francisco and exciting China beyond. When she defies her parents’ orders and stows away on their merchant ship, she is plunged into turbulent waters and plenty of thrills.
Set to publish on June 23, New York Times bestseller Beatriz Williams’s newest novel, When You Loved Me , follows a young widow who returns to her late father’s New England estate and is drawn into the hunt for the rumored pirate treasure that consumed his life. The distant and not-sodistant past collide in this tale of lost treasures and loves that might be resurrected. Ocean House Author Series: July 8
ABOUT DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE
Deborah Goodrich Royce is an accomplished author, former actress, preservationist, and philanthropist. Her newest psychological thriller, Best Boy , was an instant Indie Press bestseller! Her national bestseller, Reef Road , was a Kirkus Reviews best book of 2023 and an Indie Next pick. Ruby Falls won the Zibby Award for Best Plot Twist, and Finding Mrs. Ford was praised by Forbes, Book Riot, and Good Morning America . Royce co-created the Deer Mountain Writers’ Retreat, contributes this column quarterly, and hosts the Ocean House Author Series. Learn more at DeborahGoodrichRoyce.com and OceanHouseRI.com
New York Times bestseller Luanne Rice’s Until Midnight publishes June 30, and she will join me at the OHAS the following night! When a perfect wedding is disrupted by a pesky dead body – possibly that of a woman who shares a child with the groom – Rice is off to the races with another crime puzzler set in Watch Hill and surrounding towns. Ocean House Author Series: July 1.
National bestseller Jacqueline Friedland, brings us Breathing Under Water on August 4. The story of two women, Berry and McKenna, brought together in unexpected ways, is a deeply moving exploration of motherhood, sacrifice, and the extraordinary connections that emerge when we’re brave enough to let others see our struggles.
August 18 sees Rae Cline’s debut novel, Precious Ugly . Clementine is a girl in trouble. Homeless and only 13, she is desperate to escape her abusive and charismatic father while she protects her mother. Set in the Reagan 1980s in rural West Virginia, it is both a tale rooted in its era and a timeless examination of poverty, addiction, and the everyday marvels of tenacity and resourcefulness.
Stars & Stripes
Rhody trends for the Summer of ‘26
What do you get when you combine The Gilded Age , The Real Housewives of Rhode Island , and the 250th anniversary of the United States? Summer fashion that includes everything from bedazzled bags to glimmers of gold, and of course, nods to the sea. Here’s what’s trending around our coast with the most.
By Elyse Major
Alashan Cashmere
Kent Stetson
The Burgess Collection
Rochelle’s Boutiques
PATRIOTIC PANACHE
Even the slightest breeze is reason enough to drape yourself in cashmere. The cotton-blend Semiquincentennial topper from Mapleville-based Alashan Cashmere is perfect for showing up with spirit for any 250th soirée. Super-soft, its elegant drape allows for versatile looks. AlashanCashmere.com
LICENSE TO LUXE
Sparkle like the sea in this crossbody clutch designed and made in Pawtucket by Kent Stetson. Crueltyfree and constructed from luxurycoated canvas, 20-percent of proceeds from each purchase are donated to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Shop.KentStetson.com
BLUE SKIES
The City by the Sea inspires The Burgess Collection, designed by lifelong Rhode Islander Cathy Burgess. Pieces imbue confidence via comfort and are as wearable as they are tailored. Rock flattering colors and fits in fabrics like stretch seersucker. TheBurgessCollection.com
GILDED GLAM
Shiny but simple Beachy Studs signal effortless elegance and a love for the shoreline. Find them at Rochelle’s Boutiques, a seasonal outpost on charming Bay Street in Watch Hill, or on Thames Street in Newport. Either location is worth a jaunt to the seaside for bling. RochellesBoutique.com
SHADY CHARACTER
Fans of sunnies are sure to love this unisex pair by Superior available at Beau Bleu – a Bristol boutique with a dedicated men’s store and second location in Newport. Steel frames are handmade with premium stainless steel hinges, and the included case keeps them nice and safe. BeauBleuBoutique.com
RI FC games at Centreville Bank Stadium provide a family-friendly night out all summer long
FEATURE
by Ken Abrams
Summer of Soccer
The 2026 FIFA World Cup shines a global spotlight on the Ocean State
By Ken Abrams
The world’s biggest sporting event is coming to southern New England – and its impact will extend well beyond the stadium where the games are being played. The FIFA World Cup, held every four years, takes place across North America this summer, with more than 100 matches scheduled in cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Several games will be played at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, placing the Providence area squarely within the tournament’s orbit.
Photography
Centreville Bank Stadium has modern amenities and great sitelines
While Boston is the official host city, Rhode Island is preparing for a significant influx of visitors, with seven matches scheduled at Gillette (renamed Boston Stadium for the tournament), between June 13 and July 9. Hundreds of thousands of fans are expected to travel through the region, and many will stay in Providence-area hotels and visit area restaurants, bars, and attractions, generating significant economic activity.
Planning efforts have been underway for months, involving local businesses, tourism officials, and community groups. Mary Talbot, director of special projects at the Rhode Island Sports Commission, says stakeholders in the hospitality industry are ready for an influx of foreign visitors and are preparing for challenges that may arise from cultural differences. For example, because many (non-US) visitors are not accustomed to tipping at restaurants and bars, “Restaurants may build their pricing differently, knowing that
people (from some countries) don’t tip, to make sure employees are compensated properly,” she explains. “If you’re working in a pub or something that is going to be near the FanZone, you’ll be doing quick turnaround meals, rather than more complex dishes, knowing that you’ll be busier.”
One fan hub is expected to emerge at Track 15 in downtown Providence, serving as an informal gathering spot for fans of Ghana’s national team, which will be based at Bryant University in Smithfield, creating a unique cultural connection. Talbot said excitement among Ghanaian fans is already strong, driven by early outreach. “We hosted an influencer from Ghana during the week of the big snowstorm,” she says. “Although we had to cancel a planned announcement, she still toured the area, connected with local partners, and immediately saw the potential – suggesting cultural programming, guest chefs, and events that celebrate Ghanaian heritage.”
Locals can also expect a friendly invasion of all things Scottish when Team Scotland plays at Gillette. “We have a very active Scottish contingent, called the Tartan Army,” says Talbot. “We’ve been in touch with both the Tartan Army (fanclub) and the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal, their charitable arm. They’re going to have a very strong presence in downtown Providence, working with the G Pub on their events.”
Got tickets for a game? Be assured, it’s going to be a little crazy, and there will likely be traffic backups along routes 1 and 95 on game days, says Talbot. “People assume it’s going to be like a football game, that they’re going to have that same kind of access to the stadium. But that’s not the case, she says. “There are no trains going to Gillette from Providence. You can’t drive your car there unless you reserve a pass, and there are going to be 75 percent fewer passes than at a typical football game.”
Photo courtesy of RI FC
FANZONE COMING TO PVD
Couldn’t score tickets to the World Cup? Worry not, you can still be part of the fun. Station Park in Providence will host the FIFA PVD FanZone, a free, large-scale watch party running from June 11 through July 19. Located on the lawn between the State House and the train station, the FanZone will feature live broadcasts on a giant screen, along with music, food trucks, and a beer garden.
“The PVD FanZone will be a lively, accessible way for neighbors and visitors to take part in the energy of Rhode Island’s Summer of Soccer right here in Providence,” says Michaela Antunes, spokeswoman for Providence Mayor Brett Smiley. “Attendance and programming will vary by day and match schedule, but we are planning for several thousand visitors on peak days, particularly around high-profile matches and weekends, with strong attendance over the course of the six-week run.”
Accompanying the FanZone, Waterplace Park will be a center of activity, hosting the “House of Portugal” through August 1. The activation, led by WeGotSoccer in partnership with PUMA and the Portuguese Football Federation, aims to create a major fan destination that celebrates both Portuguese culture and the state’s strong Portuguese-American community. Organizers say the site will feature live match viewings, cultural exhibits, fan engagement events, and appearances by athletes and public figures. FIFA merchandise will also be available, alongside tourism showcases promoting both Portugal and Rhode Island.
“This is a wonderful addition that will enhance Rhode Island’s Summer of Soccer experience,” notes General Treasurer and Ocean State 2026 Chair James Diossa. “The House of Portugal brings together soccer, cultural pride, and economic opportunity that will showcase Providence and our state on an international stage. As fans from around the world come to New England in 2026, this activation helps ensure Rhode Island stands out as a destination that celebrates its Portuguese heritage and creates unforgettable experiences throughout the Summer of Soccer.”
LOCAL IMPACT: Sports Commission supports expansion of RI youth soccer programs
Earlier this year, the Rhode Island Sports Commission announced $40,000 in grants to eight youth soccer organizations as part of a statewide initiative to expand youth participation and strengthen community programs. Executive Director Jonathan Walker said the funding is designed to help local groups promote events, increase access for young players, and build excitement ahead of a summer expected to draw heightened attention to the sport.
Recipients include Burrillville Glocester Youth Soccer Association, Coventry Soccer Association, Cumberland Youth Soccer Association, East Providence Youth Soccer Association, Mundialito, Narragansett Youth Soccer Association, Project GOAL, and South County Youth Soccer Club. Organizers emphasize that grassroots programs play a key role in developing future athletes while fostering inclusion and community engagement.
Leaders from participating organizations say the funding will expand tournaments, leadership opportunities, and family-focused events. Project GOAL Executive Director Darius Shirzadi said the grant will support a range of summer activities and enhance existing programs. “At Project GOAL, we are honored and appreciative of the grant award by the Rhode Island Sports Commission. This contribution will help us provide an exciting summer of soccer-related events to benefit our kids at Project GOAL and our organization’s programming.”
by Ken Abrams
Photo
RI FC star Noah Fuson
WHAT IS FIFA?
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, aka FIFA (French for International Federation of Association Football), is the global governing body of soccer, responsible for organizing and overseeing international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. Founded in 1904 and based in Zurich, it sets the rules of the game, promotes development worldwide, and coordinates national associations. FIFA works to grow the sport, ensure fair play, and manage major tournaments that bring together teams and fans from across the globe.
BRYANT TO SERVE AS BASE CAMP FOR GHANA NATIONAL TEAM
Bryant University will serve as the official base camp for the Ghana Men’s National Team during the World Cup, bringing global attention to both the university and the state. The West African team, known as the Black Stars, will train on campus as they prepare for their fifth World Cup appearance.
Led by midfielder Antoine Semenyo, who plays in the English Premier League, Ghana
will compete in Group L, facing Panama in Toronto on June 17, England in Boston on June 23, and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27. Bryant recently opened a 43,000-squarefoot field house featuring advanced training, recovery, and sports medicine facilities designed to support elite athletes and meet FIFA’s standards for field quality, security, and professional-grade infrastructure.
RHODE ISLAND’S PRO SOCCER TEAM ENTERS ITS SECOND SEASON AT CENTREVILLE BANK STADIUM
The World Cup will undoubtedly draw more attention to soccer, both nationally and locally. Rhode Island Football Club officials expect to see increased fan support as a result of the tournament. “If you remember World Cup ‘94, there was
a pretty impactful bounce with soccer in general; I’d anticipate that there’ll be a similar impact this time,” says interim President Sean Carey. “There’s obviously a lot of interest in the sport, and in the World Cup itself. That supports RI FC on
multiple levels. We have a diverse squad with players from many different countries. I think people are paying attention, even if their countries aren’t playing in the World Cup, there’s an interest in who’s playing and where they are from.”
Photos courtesy of Ghana Football Association
Team Ghana midfielder Mohammed Kudus plays in the English Premier League
Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, will be based at Bryant University during the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Boston Legacy FC women’s professional soccer team plays several games at Pawtucket’s Centreville Stadium this summer
RI FC Summer Schedule Centreville Bank Stadium (All games begin at 7:30pm)
WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER COMING TO PAWTUCKET
Expect a pro-level soccer atmosphere when Boston Legacy FC comes to Pawtucket’s Centreville Stadium for several games this summer. The women’s professional team is splitting its home season between Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium and the new Pawtucket stadium while its Boston venue is being renovated. Led by US Olympic gold medalist Casey Murphy, the team is playing its inaugural season in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). “We’re proud to be hosting the Boston Legacy FC team,” says stadium General Manager Paul Byrne. “I think they will be the first-ever professional women’s soccer games played in Rhode Island.” “With the FIFA World Cup coming to our region and unprecedented momentum behind the women’s game, 2026 is set to be a landmark year for soccer,” adds Boston Legacy Football Club Team President Jennifer van Dijk.
• June 6 vs. Westchester FC (Kids Night)
• July 4 vs. Orange County FC (Fireworks)
• July 11 vs. Brooklyn FC (Pride Night)
• July 18 vs. Hartford Athletic
• August 8 vs. Colorado Switchbacks FC
• August 22 vs. Monterey Bay FC (Folklore Night)
Boston Legacy FC schedule Centreville Bank Stadium
• July 5 vs. Bay FC
• July 10 vs. Chicago Stars
• July 19 vs. Washington Spirit
• July 25 vs. Kansas City Current
• August 9 vs. Portland Thorns
• September 20 vs. Houston Dash
Photo courtesy of Boston Legacy FC
COURTHOUSE
FRIDAY, JUNE 5 • 7:00PM THE COUNTRY JAMBOREE MUSIC CELEBRATION
SATURDAY, JUNE 6 • 7:30PM THE BROTHERS PROJECT ALLMAN BROTHERS EXPERIENCE
FRIDAY, JUNE 12 • 7:30PM ROCK STEADY BAD COMPANY
SATURDAY JUNE 13 • 7:30PM REBEL REBEL DAVID BOWIE
THURSDAY, JUNE 18 • 1:30PM AWARD WINNING DAN FONTAINE ELVIS
FRIDAY, JUNE 19 • 7:30PM ON BLEECKER STREET SIMON & GARFUNKEL
SATURDAY, JUNE 20 • 7:30PM PAPER IN FIRE JOHN MELLENCAMP
THURSDAY, JUNE 25 • 6:00PM LOVE NOTES MEDIUM SCOTT ALLEN
FRIDAY, JUNE 26 • 7:30PM ALWAYS ABBA
SATURDAY, JUNE 27 • 7:00PM ALWAYS ABBA
SUNDAY, JUNE 28 • 1:30PM MATTHEW CURRY BAND
FRIDAY, JULY 10 • 7:30PM BLIZZARD OZZY OSBOURNE
SATURDAY, JULY 11 • 7:30PM REVUE THE TRAVELING WILBURYS
FRIDAY, JULY 17 • 7:00PM DAN FONTAINE & MEMPHIS SUN MAFIA BAND
SATURDAY, JULY 18 • 7:00PM DOO WOP REVUE THE CORVETTES
SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 7:00PM AFFINITY JOURNEY
FRIDAY, JULY 31 • 7:30PM FLEETWOOD MACKED FLEETWOOD MAC
SATURDAY, AUGUST • 1 1:00PM HARRY CHAPIN, GOLDEN LIGHTFOOT & MORE CAT STEVENS
FOOD & DRINK
In the Kitchen | Round Up | Experience | Recipe
Wholesome Foods
Meet the in-home personal chef serving up wellness and flavor
By Jenny Currier Shand
grew up in the days of the food pyramid, where six to 11 servings of bread were recommended,” says Katie King, using the old standard to show how far she’s come to become the health-focused Krunchy Kate. These days, her focus has shifted to eating holistically while maintaining delicious flavors and adding unique spins on classic foods, and she has been on quite the culinary journey.
As a native Rhode Islander who grew up in North Kingstown and is now based in East Greenwich, King’s career actually began in a very different field. After earning a degree in architecture, she realized that path did not afford the type of lifestyle she wanted. “I could not sit in a stuffy office for a living,” she admits.
Throughout her youth and into early adulthood, she held various jobs at restaurants, kitchens, and cafes. “Food has always been in my background,” she says. “For a long time, I thought I wanted to open an eclectic coffee shop with homemade syrups and non-dairy options, like The Nook in East Greenwich.”
But King’s desire to cook came from creative dates she and her husband –then boyfriend – would take to the grocery store. “It was like our own version of Chopped ,” she explains. “We would get a bunch of ingredients and try to create a meal from them.” At that time, her expertise revolved around chicken: lemon chicken, pineapple chicken – “barbecue chicken and rice was my go-to,” King recalls. Her husband thought it would be wise to expand her repertoire.
Rachael Ray was an early source of inspiration, and soon King started experimenting with different flavors, creating healthy meals that her family and friends could feel good about eating. This passion was backed by experience with the RI Community Food Bank’s Community Kitchen, a culinary job-training program that prepares adults for careers in the food industry. The purpose was twofold: not only did King take a deep dive into nutrition, acquiring new skills and earning her ServSafe certification, but she also found purpose through the program’s dedication to cooking meals for children at the Boys and Girls Club in East Providence and the West End Community Center. She thought about teaching the culinary arts herself, but she quickly learned that was not her calling. “I have so much respect for teachers,” she notes.
Like many people, when the pandemic hit, King pivoted. Inspired by Chef Haley Rego of The Holistic Trick, she stepped into the world of food blogging, and thus Krunchy Kate was born. Fueled by a passion for wholesome comfort foods, nutrition, and wellness (on the fitness end of things, she’s also a Poliquin Certified Personal Trainer), she created an LLC and, in 2022, threw everything into becoming a personal chef. She attended networking and wellness events, catered small parties,
Katie King AKA Krunchy Kate
Photo by Laura Ink
Photography, courtesy of Katie King
joined the Professional Moms of New England group – anything to put herself into local hubs and meet new people. Her big break came when she made her first (of now many) appearances on The Rhode Show . “I feel like it really legitimized my business,” she says. Inquiries poured in, and her business exploded.
As an in-home personal chef, she never creates the same menu twice. She works one-onone with clients to learn about their specific dietary needs and preferred flavor profiles.
“I’m lactose intolerant,” she explains, “and I learned that changing eating habits changes how you live, how you move, how you feel –it changes everything.” This is what she loves to bring into the homes of her clients.
Another way that King encourages healthy eating is by offering recipes on her website, including her Show-Stopping Salad. “It never misses,” she says of her most requested dish, adding that it’s perfect for bringing to summer pot-lucks and picnics. “It’s delicious with a
classic balsamic dressing for those who like to keep things simple, but the tahini vinaigrette is so good you could eat it with a spoon. Barley makes it hearty and satisfying, but if you need to keep it gluten-free, quinoa is an easy swap.”
Although King and her husband no longer embark on grocery store dates, some things never change. “I still make barbecue chicken, but it’s a lot better now. I make my own barbecue sauce, for one,” King says. “It’s one of his favorites.” Learn more at KrunchyKate.com
Dishes are layered with flavor, color, and texture
Katie King rules in the kitchen
Photos by Laura Ink
Photography, courtesy of Katie King
Savoring Rhody
From Warren to Watch Hill, top picks for the sandwich of summer
By Patty J
Every Rhode Islander knows no summer day is complete without tucking into a lobster roll piled high with claw and tail meat. Whether you prefer it cold or warm, these clam shacks and seafood eateries offer rolls worth shell-ebrating!
Bay Street Deli
Open for the season, this unassuming sandwich shop by the sea is a destination for outstanding lobster rolls. You’ll need to use two hands to hold onto these heaping rolls of tender lobster meat. Plus, you never know who you’ll see there – there’s a photo wall displaying celebs who have stopped in over the years. Watch Hill
Blount Clam Shack on the Waterfront
Situated on the waterfront, the Blount truck serves up rolls overflowing with huge chunks of mouthwatering lobster. Choose from three styles in two sizes (¼ or ½ pound): mixed with housemade dill mayo, cold with butter on the side, or tossed in warm butter. They even have a Lobster Roll Club where members can earn coins to redeem for food, merch, and prizes! Warren
Coast Guard House
Hosting out-of-towners this summer?
A visit to Coast Guard House is a must, not only for its sweeping seawall location but for the fanciful twist they give to their lobster rolls. A buttered brioche replaces the split-top roll, mayo is swapped with citrus aioli, and flavorful herbs mingle with lettuce. There’s so much chilled lobster meat, you just might need a fork. Narragansett
Photo (top) courtesy of Blount Clam Shack, (center) courtesy of Patty J, (bottom) by Elyse Major
Coast Guard House
Blount Clam Shack
Crow’s Nest
ANNUAL GUIDE TO THE CITY OF PROVIDENCE Destination
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SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE
Join us for an opening look at our 4th Annual Providence Monthly “ Destination PVD”. Featuring Neighborhood Spotlights, Life & Style, Food & Drink, and Art & Culture sections. With a must-do list for tourists and locals alike, this issue is packed with places for readers to find the best restaurants, cocktails, shopping, entertainment and more!
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17TH | 6-9PM
Meet your neighbors, connect with local businesses, enjoy a fun evening at one of PVD’s coolest spots with great company, light bites, cocktails and a DJ and dancing, while we celebrate the people who help make our neighborhoods stronger every day!
SOUTH COUNTY’S PLACE FOR AUTO REPAIR & TIRES
Crow’s Nest
Set a course for the Crow’s Nest and discover Apponaug Cove. Since 1966, this dock-and-dine fish house and oyster bar has been an in-the-know go-to for lobster rolls – served with chilled meat, a little mayonnaise, chopped celery, and seasoning in a grilled roll. Pro-tip: order a half portion with a side of chowder. Warwick
Dune Brothers
This pier-to-plate business, inspired by nostalgia for New England clam shacks, prepares the popular dish warm and buttery on brioche buns. Order yours at Dune Brothers Fox Point, the Providence Shack in the Jewelry District, Dune Brothers at Track 15, or the Riverside Shack. Check out their fresh fish markets on Ives Street in Providence and Warwick Neck Avenue in Warwick, too.
Matunuck Oyster Bar
The Matunuck Oyster Bar tent returns to 650 Succotash Road in East Matunuck to delight with lobster rolls and more in the elegant al fresco setting, erected after last spring’s devastating fire. Served with French
Dune Brothers
Photo (L) courtesy of Dune Brothers, (R) by Elyse Major
fries or a house salad, enjoy chilled lobster lightly mixed with mayonnaise and chopped celery, on a grilled buttery roll. Pro tip: play it safe and make a reservation. Wakefield
Monahan’s
Whether you go to Monahan’s Clam Shack by the Sea in Narragansett, or Monahan’s Clam Shack by the Cove in Charlestown, you’re getting lobster rolls – served cold with mayo or hot with drawn butter – considered by many Rhode Islanders to be the best in the state. Avoid any lines by ordering online, and be sure to save a little room for ice cream. Charlestown and Narragansett
Newport Lobster Shack
Located behind The Brenton Hotel on Long Wharf Mall, this no-frills fish market and food truck is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Everything is local, fresh, and cooked to order. Is there anything more RI summer than noshing on a jam-packed lobster roll and a bag of chips at a picnic table? Pregame your visit with a look at their website for lobster lingo, recipes, and fisherman profiles. Newport
Matunuck Oyster Bar
Non-Stop Flights
From martinis to mac and cheese – small portion samplers make this Coventry restaurant a worthy trip
By Jenna Kaplan
There’s a certain kind of night out that doesn’t need much planning. You pick a place, meet your people, and let the evening unfold from there. At Blackstone Coventry, that kind of night tends to stretch a little longer than expected. Part café, part martini bar, the spot has become a steady presence in the Centre of New England plaza. Owned by Rhode Island natives Gian and Bryanna Ranucci, it reflects a vision that blends relaxed European café culture with a distinctly local energy. It’s casual, a little offbeat, and built around sharing, whether that’s drinks, plates, or the overall experience.
On a recent visit, my partner and I settled in quickly and let the table fill itself, guided in large part by our server, who seemed to
know exactly how the night should unfold. We started with martinis, because it’s hard not to. I ordered the fresh fruit martini flight, bright and balanced without leaning too sweet. The Sour Patch came in sharp with watermelon and lime, the pear and honey softened things with a light, floral edge, and the pomegranate kept everything crisp. Across the table, my plus-one ordered the classic martini flight, a Coventryonly option (other locations in East Greenwich and Putnam, CT), at our server’s suggestion. It’s a trio that feels instantly recognizable, from the rich pull of an espresso martini to the citrusy lift of a lemon drop and the clean finish of a Cosmo. The espresso martini stood out immediately, smooth and easy, the kind you know you’ll come back to later.
Must-Try Items
DORITO DEVILED EGG: A taco-seasoned deviled egg topped with a crunchy Dorito ($4)
TEQUILA BUZZ
ESPRESSO MARTINI: Reposado tequila, creme de cocoa, Kahlua, espresso ($12.99)
TRUFFLE MAC & CHEESE: House mac, mushrooms, truffle oil ($5.50)
Cuisine: Contemporary American Atmosphere: Casual and fun
Flights of sliders and mac and cheese
The food follows that same rhythm. You don’t commit to one dish. You build the table as you go, and with a little guidance, it comes together easily. We started with the deviled eggs flight, mixing three styles. The original kept things classic, creamy with a light sprinkle of paprika. The bacon version added richness, with meat folded into the filling and more on top, finished with chives. The Dorito brought a taco-seasoned twist and a bit of crunch that worked better than expected. Our server had flagged these early as one of the most popular options, and she wasn’t exaggerating. They disappeared almost as quickly as they arrived.
Then came the cheese wheel experience, which pulls focus the moment it hits the table. Three individual cheese wheels are warmed and lightly flamed, their interiors softened before fresh pasta is tossed directly inside. Each turn coats the pasta in a thick, glossy layer of melted cheese. It’s simple, but it feels like an event, and it’s exactly the kind of thing our server encouraged us not to skip. I went with the mac and cheese flight, which builds off that base in three directions. The original leans into comfort with small shells and a rich house cheese sauce. The truffle version adds mushrooms and truffle oil, bringing a deeper, more savory note. The buffalo cuts through with heat and tang, keeping everything balanced. It’s indulgent, but still easy to keep going back for another bite.
Our trusty server also pointed out that you can take the same route with a pasta flight instead of mac and cheese, choosing from spaghetti marinara, penne vodka, fettuccine alfredo, or cavatappi with pesto. Each can be finished with add-ons like grilled chicken, fried chicken, meatballs, or shrimp, giving you a little more flexibility depending on what you’re in the mood for. Across the table, the slider trio filled in the rest. Buffalo chicken with lettuce, tomato, onion, and ranch brought a steady heat. The meatball stayed classic with marinara, provolone, and basil. The cheeseburger kept things simple with American cheese and caramelized onions. Nothing overworked, just solid, familiar bites done well.
Dessert felt like a pause in the night. We went with a slice of cheesecake, drizzled with caramel and chocolate, with crushed pecans brought on the side by our star server in case we wanted to turn it into a turtle-style cheesecake. It was easy to share and rich without being too much. There’s also a cheesecake flight on the menu, along with a gelato flight with waffle chips that almost won us over. We circled back to what stood out earlier and ordered an espresso martini flight to finish. Two classic versions came rich and velvety, while the tequila buzz added a slightly deeper, cocoa-leaning finish.
Paired with dessert, it felt less like an extra and more like the final course.
Off to the side, the golf simulator keeps the night moving. It’s set up so you can book time, order food and drinks straight to the bay, and rotate through turns without breaking the flow of the table. It works just as well for someone picking up a club for the first time as it does for someone who actually wants the data behind their swing. It adds a layer to the night that feels natural, not separate.
And that’s really where Blackstone Coventry lands. It gives you reasons to stay, and the
kind of service that makes it easy to do just that. Regulars lean across tables to talk, call out to the bar, and move easily through the space. The room carries that kind of energy, familiar, social, and just busy enough to feel like something is always happening. You come for a drink, maybe a bite, and end up staying longer than planned. Around here, that’s usually a good sign.
Blackstone Coventry
710 Centre of New England Blvd. Coventry • BlackstoneCoventry.com
Photos by Jenna Kaplan
Deviled eggs
Firing up the cheese wheel
Strawberry Social
Dinner and drinks to celebrate June’s juicy red fruit
By Jen Tanner
Peak Season Events
Celebrate the fleeting fruit with these picking, paddling, and party events!
Annual Strawberry Festival and Outdoor Craft Fair Kingston, June 20. FayerweatherCraftGuild.com
Strawberry Moon Paddle Weekapaug Inn, June 29. OceanHouseEvents.com
Strawberry Thanksgiving Exeter, June TBA. TomaquagMuseum.org
Smith’s Castle Strawberry Festival North Kingstown, June TBA. SmithsCastle.org
Pick-Your-Own at Brandon Family Farm West Kingston. BrandonFamilyFarm.com
June in the Ocean State is synonymous with strawberry season. One of the sweetest summer traditions is a trip to a berry patch. From mid-June to early July, some Rhode Island farms offer pick-your-own strawberries, allowing guests to stroll through fragrant fields
bursting with vibrant, mouthwatering treats. Bring home your pickings for all kinds of recipes, from cobblers to cocktails. Strawberries are a versatile fruit that can be used in more obvious sweet contexts but also added to savory entrees. Here’s just a couple of culinary delights starring these red jewels of summer.
STRAWBERRY BASIL CHICKEN
INGREDIENTS
• 3-4 chicken breasts
• 2 cups balsamic vinegar
• 1-2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove minced garlic
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 pint chopped strawberries
• 1 cup chopped basil
• Balsamic glaze
• Cooked rice or lettuce
STEPS
1. Marinate chicken in balsamic vinegar with garlic for 1 hour.
2. Warm oil in a pan and cook chicken for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked thoroughly.
3. While chicken is cooking, chop strawberries and basil.
4. Once finished cooking, place chicken on a bed of lettuce or rice. Spoon chopped basil and strawberries on top.
5. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a little sweetness, and enjoy!
STRAWBERRY BASIL SIMPLE SYRUP
Use in cocktails, lemonade, iced tea, or drizzle it on fruit.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups strawberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• ¼ cup of basil
Use syrup to add fresh flavor to cocktails and hot or cold drinks
Heat ingredients on low in a saucepan. Let cool. A batch of simple syrup can be refrigerated for 4 weeks.
the
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ABOUT RHONDA
@classicallynewengland
A mom living life forever passionate about noticing all the little things, from the trees dancing in a breeze and sounds of birds singing in the rain to the beautiful colors of a summer sky. It’s these moments that bring her a sense of gratitude, peace, and joy.
Enjoying
blue surf and sky at East Matunuck State Beach, South Kingstown
