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Cheikh Higgs always paints beautiful pictures with his vivid descriptions, making him the perfect choice to pen an article about a fine artist whose work can be found on buildings around the state. Check out “Signs of Good Things to Come” on page 11. When not on the arts or food beat, find Higgs off exploring, cooking, or working on music production.
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 Rhode Island PBS. Turn to page 22 to see this month’s group of furry friends seeking their forever homes.
Recent Rhody-transplant Britt Machado is the owner of JohnnyCakes, an interior design firm and retail space where she infuses her West Coast roots with a love of New England design. A first-time contributor, Machado has assembled an array of groovy goods to help transition from lax summer living to September’s “Return to Ritual” (page 58).
We love the idea of one local cookbook author interviewing another, so to celebrate this month’s release of Polina Chesnakova’s latest, Chesnok: Cooking from My Corner of the Diaspora , we connected her to Maggie Pearson, the talented force behind Feast and Fettle, the upscale local meal delivery system. Read Pearson’s “Tastes of Home” on page 88.
12 ARTS: Artist’s handiwork is a harbinger of good things to come
18 RHODY GEM: A groovy Hopkinton cafe that’s had many lives
20 THE PUBLIC’S RADIO: What RI businesses should know about “immigrant defense zones”
22 RHODY PETS: Adoptable pets of the month
24 EVENT: A celebration of wellness and peace expands to Ninigret Park
32 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
A17 HOME: An architect re-thinks a multi-family home
A24 RHODY READS: Local writers among upcoming releases and Watch Hill events
A26 SHOP: Goods to soften the post-summer return to ritual
A28 MAKE: Floral design tips from a flower farmer
65 Ways to make the most of apple harvest time around the state
77 EXPERIENCE: Diner favorites and cold brew in North Kingstown
84 ROUND-UP: Eight eateries to try this month
88 CHEF TO CHEF: New cookbook is a flavorful homage to family
94 FOOD BITES: Morsels of what’s new in the culinary scene
activities to enjoy the Ocean State’s most sensational season
96 SOUTH COUNTY SCENES
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A day of movement, meditation, and music expands to Ninigret Park
By Anna Lofgren
s summer in Rhode Island winds into fall, Intention Fest, a free event in Charlestown’s Ninigret Park, encourages attendees to begin the season by setting an intention to undertake or deepen the journey toward healing. Autumn Francesca, founder of Intention Fest, says the family-friendly event aims to “inform and inspire people to live a life of wellness and peace, and introduce or deepen their mindful practice.” The grassroots fest takes place on Sunday, September 28, from noon to 5pm.
More than 50 booths at the festival will give participants a chance to explore a variety of wellness techniques. Practitioners from all over New England with expertise in massage therapy, Reiki, reflexology, nutrition, mental health, acupuncture, and more will offer their services. Attendees are encouraged to explore healing practices that may be less familiar to them, and booths at the festival seek to inform participants about the intent behind these healing techniques. Reiki, for example, is a Japanese technique that promotes energy flow to induce relaxation and security. Reflexology facilitates homeostasis by applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears.
Francesca advises festival-goers to arrive early, as the event takes place within a five-hour window. “It is important to get there to sign up for practitioner sessions before the list fills up,” she says. Ensuring the quality of services is a high priority at Intention Fest, and Francesca takes time to interview and review the references of those who contribute to the event. “It’s very precious to me that people who come for relief and healing experience that from experts, not just somebody who’s been doing it for a year. So my people are very experienced and have great references,” she adds. Attendees should note that while the event is free to attend, some booths may charge a small fee or accept donations. In addition to healers, visual artists will also exhibit their works at the festival.
Intention Fest will also feature live acoustic music, with Providence recording artist and singer-songwriter Mark Cutler headlining. The Berger Boys, a duet act with Jimmy Berger and his son Louie, are also set to grace
the stage. Johnny Juxo will be performing with Francesca at 3pm, and Steve Lyon will open the stage with Devin Bender, a rising singer-songwriter who plays the ukulele.
The festival evolved from a small booth hosted by Francesca at the Providence Folk Festival several years ago. “I would invite
people to come to the booth and set their intentions for peace and wellness, and other goals they might have for themselves,” says Francesca. Since then, her vision of turning a small booth into a large-scale event has manifested into reality. Intention Fest has expanded in scope and size since it was established in
2022 in South Kingstown.
After a one-year hiatus in 2024, the festival’s new location in Ninigret Park gives attendees ample room to roam with three separate pavilions, plenty of parking, water views, shady trees, and a playground suitable for children. Festival-goers can also check out the two
towering forest troll statues in the park, created from recycled materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. “I felt the most important thing I could be doing with my time was providing a venue for people to come and be informed and inspired to live a life of wellness and peace,” says Francesca.
In addition to great live music, gong meditation, drum circles, and movement workshops, the event includes delicious eats from Finn’s French Crepes, Juice Junkie, Alaina’s Catering, and free apples, courtesy of Belmont Market. Learn more at IntentionFest.info
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A café serving breakfast, lunch, and killer specialty coffee, plus an adjacent gift shop filled with unique local goods.
In Hopkinton, right off I-95 on Main Street where Clarks Falls Road and Woodville Road converge, not far from the police station.
Hannah Duicha’s family always dreamed of opening a spot that blended hearty comfort food with rustic, woodsy character – and in 2022, they made it happen. Housed in a lovingly restored former gas station (yes, they unearthed an actual 1950s Mobil sign during renovations that used to hang out front) this cozy spot once dished out ice cream and now serves up something even sweeter: soul-satisfying meals and serious small-town charm. Fuel up with a specialty coffee that’ll rival any fancy barista’s concoction, then dive into our personal favorite — the Westerly breakfast burrito — packed with eggs, cheese, crispy potatoes, tangy pepperoncini, and “soupy,” Westerly’s beloved twist on soppressata, a spicy, dry-cured Italian sausage that locals swear by. Lunch here is killer, too. And when you finish, wander next door to the family’s charming mercantile, where shelves overflow with local soaps, hand-poured candles, smallbatch lip glosses, vintage art, and an irresistible mix of quirky, one-of-a-kind treasures. It’s the breakfast and browsing combo you didn’t know you needed.
493 Main Street, Hopkinton HopCityCafe.com
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!
Attorney Ritu Mahajan Estes, says “we all have rights regardless of our immigration status”
In partnership with The Public’s Radio RIPBS.org • By Luis Hernandez
More than two dozen Rhode Island business owners announced a joint effort [this month] to create what they’re calling “immigrant defense zones,” where they pledge to prohibit immigration enforcement agents from their stores if they don’t have a warrant. The advocacy group the Rhode Island Deportation Defense Coalition says at least 25 businesses have signed on, mostly in Providence. So what rights do local businesses have during an immigration enforcement action? Luis Hernandez posed that question and others to Ritu Maha Estes of Public Counsel, a nonprofit public interest law firm based in California.
INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
ON WHETHER A RHODE ISLAND BUSINESS OWNER CAN DENY ENTRY TO A FEDERAL IMMIGRATION OFFICIAL
Ritu Mahajan Estes: So the answer is, it depends. It depends on what type of area this official is trying to access. Generally, under the Constitution, we all have rights regardless of our immigration status. We all have rights, specifically under the Fourth Amendment, against unreasonable searches and seizures. What that means is any law enforcement (official), including immigration agents, need to in almost all circumstances, have a judicial warrant if they want to access what we call “private spaces.” For example, my home, which is a private space: If an agent wants to enter my home and search and seize in my home, I can demand that they have a judicial warrant.
ON HOW BUSINESSES CAN HANDLE IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS
Mahajan Estes: In one scenario, the agents… can be there, but the owner or whoever’s authorized to
speak to these agents can definitely demand that they have a warrant to enter the private parts of the business, such as the kitchen or the office. And there are things that business owners can do to really keep those areas private, such as putting up signs that say, “Private. Authorized personnel only.” So that’s one scenario. The other scenario is, let’s say you have a tip that ICE might be in the neighborhood. As a business owner, you are under your rights to just close the shop for the day, send people home, and not let the ICE agents enter your business. The door will be closed, and if they’re outside, you can say, “I’m not going let you in without a warrant,” because on that particular day, you’ve decided to close.
Mahajan Estes: So there are federal laws called harboring and obstruction. These are federal laws that prohibit certain actions. For example, let’s say agents are at my store and I know they’re there for a specific staff member of mine because they’ve told me that they’re there for them, right? And then I purposely try to help that specific person run away or I hide them. That could be considered harboring
and I could be charged with that federal crime. And then there’s obstruction, which is another federal crime. Typically, what we advise business owners is: if you’re demanding that they have a judicial warrant to come into a private space, which you do have the right to demand, if they don’t listen and they just kind of blow you off, don’t put yourself in harm’s way. Don’t get in their face, don’t stand in front of them. In that case, what you should do is document and record from a safe distance and announce that you’re recording everything that’s happening. This later will be evidence of unlawful activities that you can then use in a potential lawsuit against the agent, or it could be used in the person’s case – whoever they detained – through these lawful actions.
ON WHAT BUSINESS
CAN DO TO PREPARE EMPLOYEES TO INTERACT WITH FEDERAL IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS
Mahajan Estes: Before anything like this happens, it’s good to sit down with your staff, train them, and talk to them about what steps need to be taken if agents show up. So have some kind of policy in place. It doesn’t need to be a super long policy, but even just 10 phrases that staff can
use if agents show up. “I’m not authorized to speak with you.” “Please wait outside.” “I’ve called the person that is authorized to speak with you.” Then just keep repeating that.
We also advise staff to exercise their right to remain silent because you don’t have to talk to these agents. You don’t need to tell these agents where the person is that they’re looking for. You don’t need to hand over documents to them. So you basically just remain silent. You call the authorized person who’s the one that’s supposed to speak with them. We also advise people not to lie, right? Don’t say anything false. Do not run, because here in Los Angeles, CA people are running because it’s very scary. The agents are showing up with AK-47s and they’re not identifying themselves, so nobody even knows who they are. So the human reaction is you run, but if you run, these agents may be able to say, “Well, that gave us reasonable suspicion that you were doing something unlawful.”
This article was originally posted on July 28, 2025. Luis Hernandez can be reached at LHernandez@RIPR.org THINKING
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Reliably serving the Westerly through Narragansett, RI area since 2019.
YOUR HOME DESERVES
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.
BREED: Mixed
AGE: 5-6
GENDER: Female
Callie is a good girl with kind eyes and a warm heart, just waiting to share her life with you. She’s suffered some losses recently – not only did her owner pass away, but she also lost her other doggie friends and has to start life all over again. She is filled with hope and is currently in a foster home with another dog who she loves to play with. Callie is a quiet girl who doesn’t ask for much - she’s just looking to be loved.
RHODE ISLAND HOME RESCUE RhodeHomeRescue@gmail.com
BREED: Domestic Shorthair
AGE: 3
GENDER: Female
If you’re searching for a friendly companion in a warm home, Miss Millie is a young girl who just wants to live her life in a comfortable environment. She prefers to come to you on her own terms but with time, love, and patience, she will blossom. Millie was found pregnant and had beautiful kittens that have all been adopted. Now it’s her turn to relax and enjoy life surrounded by love. Her best placement would be an adult home with kitty experience. Let’s find her the purr-fect home!
FRIENDS OF HOMELESS ANIMALS RI SandraLamb@comcast.net
Bella
BREED: Mixed
AGE: 5
GENDER: Female
Meet Bella, a beautiful girl with the biggest smile and the biggest heart. She loves to explore and would enjoy a fenced-in yard for running around and playing. Bella is a medium-sized mixed breed, “mixed to perfection” whose favorite pastime is getting yummy treats and sniffing around. She’d make a great family pet, and might even like a home with another friendly pup, but no kitty cats. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with her smile.
NORTH KINGSTOWN ANIMAL SHELTER
Facebook: NKShelter, 401-910-8999
By Cheikh Higgs
When you show up… we know it’s getting ready to open!” commented designer Libby Slader on the Instagram page of Providence Painted Signs. The April post revealed the just-painted building of the new Seven Stars location in Cranston’s Edgewood neighborhood.
All throughout Rhode Island, a growing number of businesses are making their mark
thanks to the steady hand and keen eye of Shawn Giheeney, the powerhouse creative force behind Providence Painted Signs. His work has become something of a symbol that good things are soon to come, with his hand-painted signs acting as the unspoken announcement of fresh ventures. Be it a new coffee shop, a sleek boutique, or a long-standing but revitalized restaurant, Giheeney’s signature style is often the first clue that something exciting is about to unfold. Born and raised in Rhode Island, Giheeney’s journey into the world of sign-making and entrepreneurship is one of rediscovery. A graduate of Rhode Island College with a BFA in printmaking, he cites graffiti and skateboard culture as early influences. After spending a period away, he returned with a deep appreciation for the unique blend of nature, architecture, and artistic community that Rhode Island has to offer.
“I remember in my younger days thinking, every parking lot could be a skatepark, and every wall could be a canvas,” he recalls. This mindset would shape his approach to the craft of sign painting, one that embraces human touch and celebrates the irreplaceability of handmade work. Giheeney’s foray into the world of commercial art began while working for sculptor Dave Cole. It was here, amidst the grind of commercial art projects and collaborations with other artists, that the idea for Providence Painted Signs was born.
“I was doing both fine art and commercial work on the side, but I realized that the demand for commercial art was higher,” he shares. After undertaking a project painting a large double-decker bus, he had his breakthrough moment: “I realized this could be a viable full-time career path.”
As a business owner, Giheeney found the rhythm of more consistent work to be a welcome change. Yet, it wasn’t just about financial
stability, but about being a part of the local economy. He speaks with pride about how it has felt to see his work contribute to the microeconomics of the area, helping small businesses establish their visual identity from the ground up. “When I paint a sign, I feel like I’m investing in these businesses right from the start,” he explains. “There’s a real sense of pride in watching them grow.”
Providence Painted Signs has become
something of a landmark in its own right, with each new sign contributing to a vicinity’s visual personality. “There’s always this secret excitement,” Giheeney says. “You know what business is opening, but you have to keep it quiet until the big reveal.”
When it comes to his process, Giheeney works closely with clients, often diving into their vision through collaborative brainstorming. It’s this back-and-forth that allows the final product to
In a world of pixels and
Giheeney’s hand-painted signs stand as quiet but bold monuments to the irreplaceable value of human touch and meticulous craftsmanship. Sometimes the most memorable statements are written not in lengthy prose or complex codes, but in carefully chosen colors, eye-catching
“When you show up... we know it’s getting ready to open”
typefaces, and letters painted with skill and care. The painter adds, “When everything around us is so precise and computer-generated, the softness on the eyes of a hand-painted sign adds character that’s missing elsewhere.”
Follow Providence Painted Signs on Instagram (@providencepaintedsigns) for updates on new projects and collaborations.
a statewide listing of events visit us online!
September 20: The 8th Annual RI Calamari Festival and Cook-Off celebrates Rhode Island’s official state appetizer with more than 1,500 pounds of calamari, food trucks, a beer garden, live music and more. Narragansett, NarragansettCoC.com
Through September 14: The 2025 summer season at Theatre By The Sea concludes with Heartbreak Hotel , a bio-musical about the life and music of Elvis Presley that includes hits like “Hound Dog,” “All Shook Up,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com
September 6: Founding bassist of the J. Geils Band Danny Klein , who helped shape the band’s legendary blues-rock sound, leads his own group Full House, in a night of Geils classics and other favorites. West Kingston, CourthouseArts.org
September 8: Bring a can of food to donate at Cruise Night , with music from Cruisin’ Bruce, eats from Iggy’s Food Truck, and a 50/50 raffle to benefit Operation Stand Down RI, supporting homeless and at-risk veterans. Coventry, Facebook: DAI Restore Cruise Nights
September 9 : Rising comedy star and Saturday Night Live cast member Marcello Hernandez brings his live show to URI’s Ryan Center for a night of great comedy. Note: This is a phone-free event. Ages 16+. Kingston, TheRyanCenter.com
September 27: Search for songbirds, hawks, and ducks at Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge’s Fall Birding Adventure , led by Audubon Society of Rhode Island guide Laura Carberry. Dress for the weather and don’t forget binoculars! Exeter, ASRI.org
September 13: The first annual Mac and Cheese Festival at Crafted Hope Brewing Company invites comfort food fans to sample M&C dishes from some of the best local chefs in East Greenwich, plus vendors, music, and more! East Greenwich, CraftedHopeBrewing.com
September 18: Grammy-nominated band and the only Rhode Island act ever to grace the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, Belly , play a local show marking the anniversary of their 1995 album KING , before heading out on a UK tour. East Greenwich, GreenwichOdeum.com
September 20: Kick off the 2025 home football season when the URI Rams take on the Long Island University Athletics, as both teams battle to the top of the Coastal Athletic Association Conference. Kingston, GoRhody.com
September 28: The Rhode Island Women’s Expo at the Crowne Plaza is a life-affirming celebration featuring over 70 local businesses, presentations and seminars, celebrity chefs, swag bags, and a fashion show. Warwick, RIWomensExpo.com
BY
Here in the Ocean State, we’re all about summertime, but once the lifeguards leave their posts and we experience that first chilly night – the wafting smell of grilling burgers replaced with burning wood from neigbhor’s fireplace – who doesn’t get a bit giddy for all that fall has to offer. Prematurely, flannel shirts return to our outfits du jour (even though it’s still 80 degrees until November), and we’re ready to embark on annual treks for cider donuts, farm-based activities, and all things pumpkins. Divided into regions, this beautiful print guide is your go-to for whatever you want to make of the season. On Instagram? Show us your fall photos by tagging #heyrhodyphotos.
Please note that all events are subject to change, especially crop- and weather-dependent activities. To avoid disappointment, we recommend first checking with the host venue online or by phone for any details, restrictions, rain dates, and cancellations. If we missed your favorite event or activity, let us know! Email Marketing@heyrhody.com
THROUGH NOVEMBER 8:
Confreda Fall Fest: Tractor-pulled hayrides, amusement rides, PYO pumpkins, cider donuts, photo taking, a corn maze, barnyard animals, and more are just part of the family fun at Rhode Island’s largest vegetable farm! Hope, ConfredasFallFest.com; ScaryAcresRI.com
SEPTEMBER 11 & OCTOBER 3
Warwick Food Truck Nights: Taste local flavors from your favorite food vendors at the Crowne Plaza. Warwick, GoProvidence.com
OCTOBER 4
Conimicut Village Art Festival: Beach Avenue is the spot for an afternoon of breezy shopping. Find unique vendors, many with coastal-themed goods. Warwick, ConimicutVillageAssociation.org
Yankee Steam-Up: Start your engines for the region’s oldest steam engine show at the New England Wireless & Steam Museum. Music provided by Cruisin’ Bruce. East Greenwich, NEWSM.org
OCTOBER 10-13
Halloween Campsite Decorating Contest: Tent and RV campers are sure to have fun making their sites spooktacular at Oak Embers Campground. Kids’ crafts and train rides, bingo, and more await. West Greenwich, OakEmbers.net
OCTOBER 11
Rhode Island Country Fall Music Fest: Outdoor country music festival featuring regional performers and vendors including Jimmie Allen and Red Solo Cup. West Greenwich, RIMusicFestivals.com
OCTOBER 18
Spooktacular Marketplace: Spooky fun on the grounds of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, featuring over 100 vendors, a petting zoo, costumed characters, photo ops, sweet treats, live performances, music, and food trucks. Warwick, WeBeJamminEvents.com
OCTOBER 26
West Bay Open Studios: Roam through North Kingstown, Warwick, and East Greenwich on
a self-guided tour of artists and their maker spaces. Various, WestBayOpenStudios.com
OCTOBER 27
Howl-o-ween Hike N Treat: This event in Warwick City Park features a dog walk/hike, a costume contest, games, and more, benefiting the Friends of Warwick Animal Shelter. Warwick, Facebook: Friends of Warwick Animal Shelter
Wednesday Nature Walks: Norman Bird Sanctuary opens trails to the public for fascinating late-afternoon guided walks, free of charge. Also, check out free Sunday guided bird walks, every other Sunday. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org
Free Family Fun Day: On the first Saturday of each month, the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium opens to the public, free of admission costs! Grab the fam and visit the center for simple crafts, storytime, animal discoveries, autumn nature walks, and more. Bristol, ASRI.org
Land Trust Days 2025: Explore more with Rhode Island Land Trust Council-led activities (some requiring registration) including a full moon walk, kite flying on the beach, and guided nature hikes. Through October 26. Various, RILandTrusts.org
SEPTEMBER 6-7
Raptor Weekend: Billed as New England’s largest celebration of birds of prey, the Audubon Society of RI hosts presentations and activities to educate about owls, hawks, and falcons. Bristol, ASRI.org
SEPTEMBER 11-14
Newport International Boat Show: Walk the docks to view brand new sailboats and powerboats, or find hundreds of marine products, services, and accessories on land. Educational seminars, in-water boating courses, and daily giveaways. Newport, NewportBoatShow.com
SEPTEMBER 14
Bristol PorchFest: Bands and musicians take the “stage” on neighborhood porches, entertaining passersby and music-goers with a myriad of acoustic sets in a variety of genres all over town. Bristol, Facebook: Bristol PorchFest
SEPTEMBER 21
Summa Sizzla: Bid summer a fond farewell at this event bursting with local flavor, featuring grilled produce, meats, and seafood, plus baked goods, live music, and artist-vendors. Tiverton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
SEPTEMBER 7 & OCTOBER 6
Full Moon Ride: Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a 15-mile bike ride lit by the harvest supermoon! Both month’s rides gather at 6:30pm at Equality Park on Broadway. Rides have limited capacity so register early. Newport, BikeNewportRI.org
SEPTEMBER 13
A Nautical Night in Warren: Celebrate the history of Warren’s waterfront at this annual gala. Live music, local seafood, a silent auction, bites from Prica Farina, and the signature Mutiny on the Blounty mocktail make for a festive evening. Warren, WarrenHeritageFoundationRI.org
SEPTEMBER 18-21
Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival: Seminars, a daily Tasting Tent, special dinners, Sunday Jazz Buffet Brunch, and a special guest appearance by celebrated chef Chef Marcus Samuelsson are part of this event at Rosecliff. Newport, NewportMansions.org
SEPTEMBER 26-OCTOBER 13
Newport Festa Italiana: This annual
appreciation of Italian culture through food, music, and the arts kicks off with the Ziti Night benefit. A series of lively events continues through October 13 including the Italian Heritage Parade, a cheese-making workshop, and Nicholas King in concert. Newport, NewportFesta.org
OCTOBER 2-5
Audrain Newport Concours and Motor Week: Car showcases, gatherings, seminars, and luxurious events lead up to the annual gala. Oneof-a-kind seminars and a special surprise guest are planned. Newport, AudrainConcours.com
OCTOBER 4-5
Norman Bird Sanctuary Harvest Fair: Sack races, friendly home and garden competitions, live music, and more make this event – now in year 51 – an Aquidneck Island fall favorite. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org
OCTOBER 5
The Great Townie Pumpkin Festival: Get ready for a whirlwind of autumn adventures at
Crescent Park, where you can enjoy pumpkin decorating, explore local vendors, and delight in a variety of children’s activities. Riverside, CrescentParkCarousel.org
OCTOBER 9-13
Rogue Island Comedy Festival: Laugh the night away with some of the best nationally- and locally-acclaimed comedians performing stand-up at over a dozen shows in venues around Aquidneck Island. Newport, RogueIslandComedyFest.com
OCTOBER 10-13
Columbus Day Sidewalk Sale: Enjoy browsing by the sea at this lively annual event where participating shops offer special discounts on seasonal favorites and nifty wares inside and outside their storefronts. Newport, BowensWharf.com
OCTOBER 11-12
Harvest Market: Sakonnet Vineyard will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a festive two-day harvest celebration featuring live music, delicious eats, and some of the best wine on the East Coast. Little Compton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
OCTOBER 18
New England Witches Guild Halloween Parade and Festival: This year’s event welcomes hundreds of witches marching from Riverside Square to Crescent Park Looff Carousel with live music, food, and more. East Providence, NewEnglandWitchesGuild.com
OCTOBER 18-19
Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Fest: Indulge in classic RI delights at this delicious festival; sip on Whalers, listen to live music, and enjoy fresh lobster rolls, fish tacos, calamari, and oysters to your heart’s content. Newport, BowensWharf.com
OCTOBER 19
Pell Bridge Run: The four-mile road race and walk is the only day of the year when pedestrians are permitted to cross the famous Newport Pell Bridge on foot! Starts in Jamestown and finishes in downtown Newport. Jamestown, PellBridgeRun.com
OCTOBER 19 & 26
Warren Walkabout: Explore historic downtown at this annual festival of arts, food, independent businesses, and history; live music all over town and artist demonstrations add to the scene. Warren, DiscoverWarren.com
NOVEMBER 2
Trunk or Treat: Rather than going house to house, head to Fort Adams State Park where kids get to go trunk to trunk. Admission is typically a canned good. Newport, AudrainAutoMuseum.org
NOVEMBER 7-16
Newport Restaurant Weeks: Enjoy craveworthy discounts, including prix-fixe and BOGO deals at some of Newport’s best eateries during Newport Restaurant Weeks. Newport DiscoverNewport.org
NOVEMBER 11
Veteran’s Day Ceremony: The World War I Doughboy statue on the Tiverton Bicentennial Green at the Old Stone Bridge next to Grinnell’s Beach, is the place to show your support to our veterans. Meets at 11am. Tiverton, TivertonHistorical.org
Dr. LaPorte joined Atlantic Audiology in June and we’re excited for our patients to get the chance to work with her. Dr. LaPorte earned her Doctorate of Audiology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in 2023 and during her residency she was drawn to working in a private practice because of the level of focused and personalized care she can provide for her patients. Her audiologic passions include amplification, education, & cerumen management. Dr. LaPorte is working out of both the Cranston and the North Kingstown locations.
OR USE OUR ONLINE BOOKING QR CODE
1130 Ten Rod Road, Suite E 104, North Kingstown 1150 Reservoir Avenue, Suite 305B, Cranston 35 Wells Street, Unit 2, Westerly
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Activities at Stillwater Reservoir: Experience the wooded shores, islands, and picturesque hills of the Woonasquatucket Reservoir with scenic walks through the Greenway, community fun runs, and kayaking through September and October. WRWC.org
Foster Farmers Market: Shady Acres Diner is the place for all-day breakfast (until 2pm) and the site of this weekly event, held Sundays from 9am-12:30pm, weather permitting through October 26. Watch for special happenings like live music and a petting zoo. Foster, FosterFarmersMarketRI.com
13th World: This haunted “house” experience takes place outdoors through the woods (wheelchair accessible but not easy). About 30 minutes to complete, there’s even a Touch of Fear add-on (age 18-plus) where you allow the monsters to touch you. Cumberland, 13thWorld.FearTicket.com
Harmony Railway and Gift Shop: Enjoy a scenic half-mile ride on a 15-inch gauge five-inch scale diesel powered locomotive. Don’t miss a stop into the gift shop for maple syrup, raw honey, and other locally made gifts. Chepachet, HarmonyRIProducts.com
Observatory Open Nights at Seagrave Memorial Observatory: On clear Saturday evenings, hop over to Peeptoad Road to view the sky at the Seagrave Memorial Observatory. Free and open to the public, weather permitting. Scituate, TheSkyScrapers.org
Scituate Rotary Farmers Market: Through September, spend Saturdays listening to live music and enjoying food from food trucks while shopping farmfresh produce and flowers. Across from North Scituate Library. 9am-12pm, weather permitting. North Scituate, ScituateRotaryFarmersMarket.com
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 7
Pawtucket Arts Fest: This multi-day festival features a variety of programming, including dance, music, theater, film, and folk-traditional arts, to showcase the city’s dynamic creative community. Pawtucket, PawtucketArtsFestival.org
SEPTEMBER 6-7
Slater Park Fall Festival: The historic park, which boasts a Looff Carousel, is the setting for two days of arts and crafts, food trucks, and a live performance from the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. Pawtucket, BlackstoneHeritageCorridor.org
SEPTEMBER 11
Pumpkin Carving and Flower Arranging: Bippity boppity boo! Turn your ordinary pumpkin into an extraordinary centerpiece. Held at Hill’s Tavern, enjoy carving a gourd
to fill with fall blooms with The Stem Bar. Chepachet, TheStemBarFlorals.com
SEPTEMBER 13-14
Burrillville Fall Harvest Festival: The Assembly Theatre is the place for two days of all-ages fun with craft vendors, photo stations, and pumpkin painting. Saturday night caps with a laser light show to a live performance by local act Jailbreak. Burrillville, TourBlackstone.com
SEPTEMBER 20
Great Road Day: Every year the public historic properties on Great Road open their doors for visitors, each displaying special exhibits and free tours curated for this event. A bakery, blacksmith shop, and mill are among the sites. Lincoln, HearthsideHouse.org
SEPTEMBER 20
Great Pumpkin Festival: Experience the start of autumn at this family-friendly
shindig, with contests, food vendors, live entertainment, and community organizations. North Smithfield, GreatPumpkinFestival.org
Open Farm Day at Butterfly Farm: Come meet all the farm animals, get a sneak peak behind the scenes, and enjoy a hayride. Rain or shine! Lincoln, Instagram: @butterflyfarmri
SEPTEMBER 20-21
Apple Festival: Now in year 37, this celebration of all things apple includes a craft fair, family entertainment, food trucks, and apples! Johnston, Instagram: @applefestival_johnston
SEPTEMBER 21
Rootstock: Don’t miss a day of community, arts, music, food, and eco-learning on the lands of Mowry Commons hosted by Revive the Roots. Tickets are limited, so plan ahead. Smithfield, ReviveTheRoots.org
SEPTEMBER 25
Starry Starry Fall Night: Come for a night of stargazing in the wide open fields of Chase Farm. Lincoln, GreatRoadHeritageCampus.org
SEPTEMBER 27
Harvest Festival & Tractor Show: This annual fundraiser for a historic farm is a cornucopia of fun with hayrides, barn tours, pony rides, and of course, tractors. Rain date: September 28. Cumberland, FranklinFarmRI.org
SEPTEMBER 27-28
Oktoberfest: The German American Cultural Society of RI invites guests to their biergarten, bierhalle, and Rathskeller bar for a cultural celebration of live music, dancing, festbier, and traditional cuisine. Pawtucket, GACSRI.org.
OCTOBER 3-4
AstroAssembly 2025: Since 1952, this annual event invites amateur astronomers and stargazers to learn, participate in raffles, compete in the astro-imaging contest, and gaze up! Free and open to the public, weather permitting. Scituate, TheSkyScrapers.org
OCTOBER 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
Butterfly Farm Fall Fest: Pick out the perfect pumpkin and go on a hayride while you visit with the farm animals and check out 20-plus local vendors and food trucks. Lincoln, Instagram: @butterflyfarmri
OCTOBER 11-13
Scituate Art Festival: Don’t miss this annual event that stretches across and beyond the town’s postcard-perfect village green. Shop arts, crafts, and antiques from regional makers, plus live music and a food court. Rain or shine. North Scituate, ScituateArtFestival.org.
OCTOBER 11-14
Woonsocket AutumnFest: Since 1979, this event that spans the long weekend has been a Northern RI favorite and the largest fest in the area. A long itinerary includes a parade, rides, food, live entertainment, fireworks, and more. Woonsocket, AutumnFest.org
OCTOBER 18, 19, 26; NOVEMBER 1
Gone But Not Forgotten, Victorian Mourning and Funeral Customs Exhibit: Visit Hearthside House for a guided tour journeying from Simon Thornton’s wake with all the traditions and pageantry of death embraced by the Victorians on display. Lincoln, HearthsideHouse.org
Brown University Football: Watch the Brown Bears throw around the pigskin at their home games at Richard Gouse Field on several Saturdays throughout the 2025 season. Dates vary, all games start at noon. BrownBears.com
Food Truck Fridays: Craving handheld eats and an evening outdoors? Roger Williams Park hosts local food trucks doling out street fare at Carousel Village, every Friday through September 26. RWPZoo.org
Haunted Boat Tours: Take a spooky boat tour and learn about the many restless
souls that haunt the streets and rivers of Providence. Tours run all season, and check for special Haunted Booo-zy Boat Rides. ProvidenceRiverBoat.com
Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular: Take a stroll through Rhody’s favorite pumpkin patch as Roger Williams Park Zoo is lined with thousands of masterfully carved, candlelit gourds. Dates TBA. RWPZoo.org/jols
Providence Artisans Market: Artists from all over Southern New England convene at Lippitt Park to sell their fine crafts, jewelry, paintings, and more on Saturdays through October 25. Facebook: PVD Artisans Market
Providence Flea Market: Now in its new home at 195 District Park, this buzzing
market is brimming with varied vendors. Enjoy live tunes, savor mouthwatering bites from food trucks, and mingle with local nonprofits every Sunday through October 26. ProvidenceFlea.com
PVD Horror: The podcasters and popup event organization hosts scary movie screenings for cult-horror enthusiasts at Buttonwoods Brewery on select nights. Follow their social media for upcoming dates. Facebook: PVD Horror
WaterFire: This quintessential Providence after-dark tradition of seeing the river set ablaze while strolling Waterplace Park continues into fall, with food trucks, live entertainment, and more, on September 27, October 4, and November 1. WaterFire.org
SEPTEMBER 5-6
PVDFest: The city’s signature event returns to downtown with spectacles like Squonk’s newest show Brouhaha, AGONZA’s Mural Battle, multiple stages of local and international acts, a food truck village, crafts vendors, and more. Rain Date: September 7. PVDFest.com
SEPTEMBER 6-7
India Point Park is the place to be for the best seafood, craft beer, wine, and more from dozens of vendors at the Rhode Island Seafood Festival. Live music from local favorites Heidi Nirk, Young Rust, and TJ and the Tall Boys. RISeafoodFest.com
SEPTEMBER 7
Breakfast with the Zebra & Wildebeest: Start your day with a delicious breakfast al fresco and get ready for an adventure with the zookeepers as they prepare the mixedspecies yard for zebras, wildebeests, and Watusi cattle. RWPZoo.org
SEPTEMBER 14
Jewish Culture Fest: This celebration of Jewish culture features live music from Nefesh Mountain and Ezekiel’s Wheels, an expanded KidZone, a beer garden from Moniker Brewery, and delicious noshes from Maven’s Delicatessen, Zayde’s Market, and Navad Bakers. JewishAllianceRI.org
SEPTEMBER 20
Ocean State Oyster Festival: 195 District Park is your oyster as the new location for this celebration of the state’s rich oyster-farming tradition with live music, local food vendors, and an abundance of fresh oysters. OysterFestRI.com
SEPTEMBER 28
Rain Harvest Festival: This event, hosted by the Providence Parks Department and Rhode Island Department of Transportation at Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, features art, music, and various activities highlighting the importance of clean water. StormWaterInnovation.org
OCTOBER 4-5
Little City Thrifty: Shop vintage and pre-loved clothing, records, art, home goods, furniture, and more at this curated experience of rummaged regalia taking over the WaterFire Arts Center with over 90 booths. Three words: free book swap! LittleCityThrifty.com
OCTOBER 4-6
Narragansett Brewery Oktoberfest: The Fox Point brewery brings a taste of Munich to PVD with their very own festbier, authentic German food, and lots of fun. Sunday is kids’ day with special events for the whole family. NarragansettBeer.com
OCTOBER 11
RISD Craft: Stroll Benefit Street to peruse handmade fine art and design work by 130+ student and alumni artists, exemplifying mastery of craftsmanship and attention to detail in a wide variety of media. RISDCraft.com
OCTOBER 11-14
Columbus Day Weekend Festival: An annual tradition put on by the Federal Hill Commerce Association, hosts entertainment stages, live chef demonstrations, a parade, and a taste of the Hill’s many restaurants throughout the weekend. FederalHillProv.com
OCTOBER 18
Rhode Island Festival of Children’s Books and Authors: Meet award-winning authors and illustrators, enjoy storytelling sessions, and participate in fun activities centered around books and reading. LincolnSchool.org
OCTOBER 24
Halloween Market: The Providence Flea and Witches’ Night Out Market team up to bring the magic of autumn to Farm Fresh RI on Sims Avenue. A magical evening of shopping and snacking awaits! ProvidenceFlea.com
OCTOBER 25
Fam Jam: Join Providence Bike Jam for a familyfriendly daytime ride. Bring your working bicycle, helmet, water and snacks. Check online for posted route and details. Instagram: @pvdbikejam
OCTOBER 26
Halloween Monster Dash 5K: Dash through the RIPTA bus tunnels in your costume of choice dodging spooky zombies – and bring the little ones along for a fun dash of their own. MonsterDashRace.com
NOVEMBER 1
Waterfire: The 13th annual Salute to Veterans is an evening offering support and thanks to Rhode Island servicemen and women, commencing at sunset on the banks of the Providence River. WaterFire.org
NOVEMBER 7-9
Comic Con: Get ready for a weekend of cosplay fun and photo ops at Rhode Island Comic Con, held at the RI Convention Center and the Amica Mutual Pavilion, featuring guest stars from films Pretty in Pink , Mallrats , and Fletch RIComicCon.com
Block Island Farmers Market: Spend a perfect New Shoreham morning shopping art, jewelry, honey, and other mementos at Legion Park at West Side Road. Wednesdays and Saturdays (9am-11:30am) through midOctober. BIFarmersMarket.com
Fall Harvest Festival: The garden center pulls out all the stops with hayrides, a pumpkin dunk tank, corn maze, scavenger hunt, barrel train, and more, weekends from late-September through October. South Kingstown, TheFarmersDaughterRI.com
Family Fun at the Farm: Through October, Clark Farms is a one-stop for making memories, with a giant corn maze, hayrides, petting zoo, the Beeline Zipline, a mining activity, pedal-powered go-karts, skipping stones (hop dots) and a straw maze. Matunuck, ClarkFarms.com
Stargazing Nights: On clear Friday nights, Frosty Drew opens its observatory, science center, sky theater, and telescopes to the sky and offers free stargazing and astronomy to anybody interested in observing from Ninigret Park. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org
Seaside Shadows Downtown Ghost Tours: Hear stories of deadly shipwrecks, cursed pirate treasure, and witches while exploring the historic architecture of this small seaside town. Westerly, SeasideShadows.com
URI Rhody Rams Football: Bring your Rhode Island pride to the Ryan Center for the URI college football team’s home games. Arrive early for the tailgate, which requires a separate ticket, or just hit the stadium at gametime to cheer the team on to victory. Kingston, GoRhody.com
SEPTEMBER 5-7
Folk Art Quilt Show: The South County Museum celebrates the history of quilting and contemporary forms for its 36th annual show, featuring quilts from local makers and a raffle. Narragansett, SouthCountyMuseum.org
SEPTEMBER 12-14
Block Island Pride: Rainbow tie-dying, drag queen bingo, movies at the beach, a pride
BLOCK ISLAND GHOST TOURS
BlockIslandGhostTours.com
GHOSTS OF NEWPORT GhostsofNewport.com
HAUNTED BOAT RIDES ProvidenceRiverboat.com
PROVIDENCE GHOST TOUR ProvidenceGhostTour.com
SEASIDE SHADOWS DOWNTOWN
WESTERLY GHOST TOURS
SeasideShadows.com
march, and more are among the fab activities planned for this year’s celebration. Block Island, QueerBlockIsland.com
SEPTEMBER 12 & OCTOBER 17
Wickford Harbor Fire: The village’s natural beauty is illuminated by glowing lanterns on the water for a night of food trucks, restaurant specials, shopping, and music. Wickford, Instagram: @WickfordHarborFire
SEPTEMBER 12-14
Misquamicut Fall Fest: Take in the view of the Block Island Sound from atop a Ferris wheel, snack on food truck fare, admire classic cars, and enjoy other festivities on the beach. Misquamicut, MisquamicutFestival.org
SEPTEMBER 14
Bark on the Beach: Leash up your pup and head to Narragansett Town Beach for an invigorating mile-long walk to raise money for Animal Rescue Rhode Island. Narragansett, AnimalRescueRI.org
SEPTEMBER 20
Calamari Festival and Cook-Off: Dig into the Ocean State’s official appetizer at this tented rain-or-shine event featuring tastings, live music, cash bar, vendor marketplace, and food trucks. Narragansett, NarragansettCOC.com
Fall Festival & Outdoor Craft Fair: Explore a variety of local craft vendors while enjoying apple crisp and ice cream at the beautiful Fayerweather House grounds. Rain date September 21. South Kingstown, FayerweatherCraftGuild.com
Pride Day at Casey Farm: Explore offerings from queer-owned businesses, supportive local resource organizations, and your favorite market vendors. Enjoy rainbowthemed kids’ crafts, historical lawn games, and special performances. Saunderstown, HistoricNewEngland.com
SEPTEMBER 21
Exeter Fall Festival: This outdoor event includes the Yawgoo Valley equipment sale, local vendors, and more to support the Exeter Public Library. Exeter, Yawgoo.com
Paddle for Progress: “Let’s turn Wickford Harbor pink for breast cancer,” is the call to action for this third-annual two-mile
paddle throughout local waters. Wickford, PaddleForProgressRI.org
SEPTEMBER 24
Open Farm Night: Join Fry Farm for an evening full of local flavor and fun! Live music by the Wright Flyers, a Moniker Brewery beer garden, lots of food, lawn games, and a bonfire. East Greenwich, Facebook: Open Farm Night at Fry Farm.
SEPTEMBER 26-28
Block Island Birding Weekend: Autumn on the island is flock-full of migratory birds on their way to their winter homes. Audubon naturalists lead birders on field trips to spot all kinds of species. Block Island, MassAudubon.org
OCTOBER 12
Block Island Half Marathon: There are no views quite like this half marathon, which takes you past beach dunes, the North Lighthouse, and rolling pastures. Block Island, NewShorehamRI.gov
OCTOBER 17
Coventry Halloween Spooktacular: Enjoy food trucks, trunk-or-treat, and other spooky activities at this annual Halloween event hosted by Coventry Parks & Recreation. Coventry, Facebook: Coventry Halloween Spooktacular
OCTOBER 18
Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night: The Misquamicut Players reenact Monty Python’s parody of Guy Fawkes’ attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605. A bonfire will set the stage for this comedic night at The Windjammer. Misquamicut, GuyFawkesUSA.com
Spooktacular Kids Craft Day & Outdoor Craft Fair: Check out a variety of local vendors set up at the Fayerweather House grounds with fun Halloween activities and candy for kids! South Kingstown, FayerweatherCraftGuild.com
OCTOBER 18 & 19
HopArts Studio Trail: Artists and artisans open their studios to the public for the weekend, offering demonstrations, details of their craft, and work for sale. Hopkinton and Richmond, HopArts.org
Wicked Week returns with spooky fun to round out the month, including the Witches of Wickford Paddle on October 20, a sip and stroll event and Scarecrow Contest, Horribles Parade, and more. Wickford, WickfordVillage.org
OCTOBER 24-26
The Last House on Locust: Explore the front-yard-turned-cemetery scene with more than 40 animatronics, including multiple 12-footers, and a haunted orchard/pumpkin patch. Seasonal treats, too. To benefit the Rock Steady Boxing Program at the South County YMCA. Narragansett, Facebook: The Last House on Locust
OCTOBER 26
Ocean State Rhode Races: Lace up those sneakers and enjoy Southern RI vistas while you run a marathon, half marathon, or 5K at the 9th annual Ocean State Rhode Races. A festival at Narragansett Town Beach follows. Narragansett, RhodeRaces.com
NOVEMBER 8
Build a Turkey Plush: Pre-game Thanksgiving with this creative afternoon where children learn to fashion a turkey from seasonal materials – and hot glue and paint – while munching fresh-baked cookies and sipping cider. All supplies included. Watch Hill, OceanHouseRI.com
architect takes a three-family home to new heights
By Elyse Major
New England is filled with multi-family homes, better known as “three-families.” If you’re reading this article, there’s a good chance you’ve lived in one. The narrow floor plan generally includes a front entrance leading to two large main rooms segmented by a wide door frame; a kitchen with a back entrance and pantry, one bathroom, three bedrooms, and sometimes, exits to railed porches. Third floors generally have high ceilings and all levels are lined with windows. Original features like built-in cabinets and drawers, and barely any closets, are typical. What these homes lack in amenities they make up for with space, sunlight, and character.
When a family with young children living in Atlanta was planning their return to Providence, they wanted to make some modifications to a three-family property they’d owned for years and kept as a rental on the East Side. “They wanted to convert it into a two-family home that would be their residence,” explains
David Sisson, principal architect at David Sisson Architecture, PC in East Providence. At first, Sisson tried to convince his clients that they didn’t want to lose a unit, but they were insistent. “We began to dig deeper into their needs and wants, and I did come around to their point of view,” says Sisson.
What the couple wanted was the East Side experience and walkable life, but they were not finding a single-family home that met their needs. “Of course, they already owned this one,” says Sisson, who describes the home as being in rough shape, which he notes is “fairly typical of a rental.” Sizing up the property,
Sisson realized that the footprint was a bit wider and taller than most three-families, boasting almost a fourth level with dimensions in both width and depth that could allow for a very luxurious layout.
The home was reimagined and the first floor was kept as an income-producing rental. The layout for the owner’s suite was inverted, placing the public and domestic functions on the third floor and reserving the second floor for bedrooms. The third floor had an attic which was partially
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
opened to create a cathedral ceiling over the living, dining, and kitchen areas, and Sisson and team also managed a small area on a “fourth” floor, which the parents use as an office, overlooking the kitchen and living rooms. Says Sisson, “this house offered some extraordinary opportunities!”
“Double and triple deckers were invented in New England in the 19th century to meet the housing needs of a rapidly growing population,” explains David Sisson. “Today, these houses are found all over cities like Providence, Boston, and their bedroom communities. Though their interiors are out of date, these houses can be renovated to offer a great opportunity for prospective homeowners to break into today’s tight real estate market.”
David Sisson Architecture is a full-service professional architecture firm based in East Providence providing both commercial architecture and residential architecture services. Sisson himself is available for institutional architectural design, assisted living design, new construction and remodeling, and office and retail interior design. Kevin LeBlanc of RWL General Contracting served as contractor for this project.
“Stephen helped me get my offer accepted on my first home just below the listing price, which is rare. He was absolutely fantastic. From the moment I even entertained the idea of buying a home (before I even had the means to do so), he was always patient and encouraging along the way. Once I found a home I liked, Stephen responded immediately, set up the showing, put the offer together, and now I’m in my new home. It happens fast, so whether you’re on the fence or ready to take the plunge, Stephen will adapt to your pace and eventually get you in the home you want. Can’t recommend him enough!”
85 Third Street | Sold for $735,000
I recently helped my clients secure this gorgeous historic home with a clever offer strategy and keen negotiation tactics. Ready to start the buying process? Let’s chat today!
By Deborah Goodrich Royce
Fall in Rhode Island is glorious. The days are often sunny, the beaches are mostly clear, and the roads and walking paths are quieter than they have been for months. It is one of my favorite times in New England – reminiscent of my Michigan girlhood – and it is a perfect time to sit in a favorite spot with a good book. And we have a load of them for your consideration! Several of the featured authors will join me, Martin House Books, and WCRI at the Ocean House Author Series. (See sidebar for details)
The king of crime thrillers is back! On September 16, Don Winslow, once dubbed “America’s greatest living crime writer” comes out with The Final Score Robbers and wise guys, crooked and honest cops, and college students with lucrative (and illegal) sidelines abound in this exciting foray into the world of Rhode Island crime. Join us on Wednesday, October 1, at the Ocean House Author Series to hear Winslow talk about these six novellas packed into one glorious book.
October 21 sees the posthumous release of The Land of Sweet Forever , a book of never-before-seen short stories by Harper Lee, one of America’s most beloved authors. From the wilds of Alabama to the high-rises of New York City, this is the To Kill a Mockingbird writer like you’ve never seen her before. This collection brings us a group of newly discovered short stories and previously published essays and magazine pieces, offering a fresh perspective on this remarkable literary mind.
Rhode Island native, Bram Stoker Award winner, and Shirley Jackson Award finalist Christa Carmen releases How to Fake a Haunting on October 7. In a table-turning thrill ride, desperate and unhappy Lainey Taylor’s plot to frighten her alcoholic husband out of her life takes a chilling turn. Spookily atmospheric and often unexpectedly funny, Carmen’s latest turns the haunted house premise on its head. Join her at the Ocean House Author Series Thriller Panel on Sunday, October 26, just in time for Halloween.
October 28 brings us Wreck , New Englander Catherine Newman’s literary follow-up to her beautiful novel, Sandwich . If you loved reading about Rocky and her family’s vacation on Cape Cod, get ready to meet them again two years later in Western Massachusetts. With her signature wit and wisdom, Newman explores the hidden rules of family, the heavy weight of uncertainty, and the gnarly fact that people –no matter how much you love them – are not always exactly who you want them to be.
Providence’s own Vanessa Lillie publishes The Bone Thief – a continuation of her Syd Walker series – on October 28. When a Native American teenager vanishes from her small town – a place with dark ties to an elite historical society – Bureau of Indian Affairs archaeologist Syd Walker is called to investigate. New York Times bestselling author Liz Moore calls this “a riveting mystery with a plot that seamlessly blends history with fiction.” Meet Lillie at the Ocean House Author Series Thriller Panel on Sunday, October 26.
“Every writer is at least two beings: the one who lives, and the one who writes. Though everything written must have passed through their minds, or mind, they are not the same,” says Margaret Atwood. Raised mainly in the wilds of northern Quebec, November 4 brings her long-awaited memoir Book of Lives, A Memoir of Sorts , where she takes us from an unconventional childhood to the seminal moments that shaped her books: from the cruel year that spawned Cat’s Eye to the Orwellian 1980s Berlin where she wrote The Handmaid’s Tale
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 Hotel, 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.
Please consider shopping local when making book purchases
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 worldclass authors like Sarah Ferguson, Chris Bohjalian, and Katie Couric to Watch Hill. For tickets and more, visit OceanHouseEvents.com.
Designer picks add flair to the everyday
By Britt Machado
As the spontaneous possibilities of summer end, we take the cold plunge into the structure of autumn. The approaching fall equinox guarantees the inevitability of routine – best to embrace it. Embedding small talismans into everyday life can ward off the days feeling mundane: a bright new kitchen tool inspires adventurous meal preparation; a playful blanket transforms late worknights into cozy times of solitude; wooden objects and floral scents keep the promises of warmth alive. You gather friends around, shuffle the deck, and then suddenly you feel a spark of pleasure in the return to ritual.
Providence | Mezzell.com
Ceramic Mugs
Arch Contemporary Ceramics
Tiverton | ArchContemporary.com
Baking Sheets
Utility
Middletown | Shop-Utility.com
Pistachio Blanket
Nico Scout
South Kingstown | ShopNicoScout.com
Yarn, Scissors, Classes
Knit Club
Providence | Knit.Club
Floral Delusion Perfume
M. Hainey
Providence | Instagram: mhainey.studio
Ocean Jasper Rings
Hinge
Providence | MargeHinge.com
Knife
Kutty Knives
North Providence | kuttyknives.com
By Elyse Major
There’s something about a floral centerpiece that elevates even a simple table setting into something special. Today’s versions aren’t the tightly manicured bunches of even a few years ago. Often housed in atypical vessels, modern designs celebrate the wild forms and colors of nature, and almost anything goes. Think branch clippings still covered with leaves, berries, and buds; unkempt fragrant herbs; and of course, flowers at varying heights. Assembling one yourself isn’t as difficult as it seems. We asked Beth Harris, owner
of Fairest Flowers Farm in North Scituate, for tips on how to create a beautiful and impressive display. Harris grows and sells a stunning variety of flowers, including dahlias with delightful names like sunkissed, daydreamer, and moonstruck. From her website (FairestFlowersFarm.com) she vends dahlia bulbs, or “tubers” but offline, drive along Route 116 to Trimtown Road in North Scituate and be instantly smitten with her charming flower cart filled with jars of spectacular seasonal offerings. Bring cash or Venmo to the roadside attraction and treat yourself to a fresh bouquet.
This arrangement uses berries, herbs, roses, Shirley poppies, and wildflowers
Before starting, you’ll need a foundation at the base of the container to insert stems and secure the arrangement in place. Years ago, green foam (“Oasis”) was used, but today’s floral designers opt for eco-friendly methods like building a grid toward the base of your vessel with floral tape, scrunching a section of chicken wire, or placing a flower frog (those flat disks with upright pins or half spheres with holes) at the bottom.
• Vessel of choice (most anything waterproof)
• Flowers and foliage
• Foundation supplies (see Prep)
• Garden gloves to protect your hands
• Scissors, clippers
1. Place the selected foundation at the bottom of your container. Fill with water.
2. Gather flowers and foliage and cut stems at a slant to increase water intake.
3. Remove lower leaves that will be submerged in water to avoid bacterial growth.
4. Begin by inserting shorter leafy stems around the inside rim to conceal the top of the container and any mechanics, like floral tape.
5. Next, add medium-sized blooms working your way inward, followed by increasingly larger blooms toward the center.
6. Finish with long sprigs of flowers or branches in an almost random pattern.
by
“ADD YOUR MOST BEAUTIFUL BLOOM LAST, AND PLACE IT WHERE IT WILL SHINE. I CALL IT THE ‘HELLO’ FLOWER.
USE FOLIAGE NOT SO MUCH FOR FILLER, BUT RATHER, AS AN INTERESTING TEXTURE, COLOR, OR TO DEFINE SHAPE. FORAGE AND USE MOST ANYTHING!
– Beth Harris
WORKSHOPS NEAR YOU
Class sizes can be limited, so inquire and reserve early.
SEPTEMBER 4
Design with dahlias: Mount Hope Farm, Bristol
SEPTEMBER 10
Design and sip flower arranging with Moonrose Farm: Elllie’s, Providence
SEPTEMBER 11
Pumpkin carving and flower arranging: The Stem Bar at Hill’s Tavern, Chepachet
SEPTEMBER 19
Long and low table arrangement floral design class: Cedar Edge Floral, Richmond
SEPTEMBER 21
Garden-style compote arrangement: Greenlion (Newport) at Avant Gardens, Dartmouth, MA
SEPTEMBER 29
Fall arrangement in a pumpkin: Floral Designs by Donna, Narragansett
NOW BLOOMING
Five flowers to fall for
• Aster
• Dahlia
• Gomphrena
• Strawflower
• Zinnia
VASE VARIATIONS
No antique silver pedestal compote in your cabinet? No worries. Most any holder can work and if it’s not waterproof, make your bouquet in something that is (like glass) before placing it inside. Try baskets, buckets, cans, colanders, coolers, deep pans, kettles, mixing bowls, pots, even open drawers.
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Beyond blooms, employ berries and leafy herbs to add texture
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From picking to snacking, everything you need to make the most of apple time
By Ann Martini
Apple picking was a very big deal in our family when the girls were little,” says Amy Chaffee, mom of two from Smithfield, a town also known as Apple Valley. “It was like their autumn internal alarm clocks were going off!” she adds, explaining that her daughters would don cozy sweaters and solid footwear for an afternoon meandering through various orchards in northern Rhode Island, picking the “biggest,” “reddest,” or “prettiest” apples. Afterwards came a visit to the farmstand for caramel apples, pies, and cider. “The funny thing is that even though the girls are in their twenties now, they still want to do it with me. It’s like a sweet, welcome-to-fall tradition for us.”
Surely, many Rhode Islanders have similar memories about a tradition that can be considered family fun, or even a romantic way for a couple to spend a crisp September or October day. There are more than two dozen apple orchards throughout the state; some offer pick-your-own experiences where you can fill
a bag to your heart’s content. Others feature orchard-adjacent stands or shops where you’ll find an unimaginable array of apple-inspired products, from cute tchotchkes to edible delights such as caramel apples, apple pies, breads and muffins, apple butter, cider and cider slushies, and cider donuts, even take-
According to area growers these are the six most popular apples grown in Rhode Island, ending with the most popular, McIntosh, which accounts for 50 percent of the apples purchased in the state.
home bags of apples for those who prefer not to work for their crop. No wonder it’s become a beloved autumn tradition.
For orchard owners, there’s a method behind this madness, one that hasn’t always come naturally, especially for those to whom the business has been passed from generations
prior. But now the ritual of picking apples is playing second-fiddle to the experience of wandering through the store looking for tasty treats. The fact is that many of these orchards wouldn’t be nearly as profitable without these tangential sales. The challenges facing small fruit-growing orchards might surprise you:
bad weather can lead to crop loss, disease, and less-than-desirable fruit; there are insects and pests that can wreak havoc on the fruit and on the pickers; difficulty filling retail and picking positions can halt efficient production.
Jim Steere knows this firsthand. Steere has run Steer Orchard in Greenville for 55 years.
His grandfather started the orchard in 1930, and Steere works with his son John, offering a dozen or so varieties of apples. Their farmstand is rife with cider donuts, apple cider, jams and jellies, and other apple goodies. But sometimes, he says, it’s not enough. Steere is the president of the Rhode Island Fruit
by Elyse Major
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Remember, an orchard is someone’s lifeblood, so treat it with respect and you’re sure to have a blast! Here are a few tips from orchards about maximizing your apple-picking experience.
Mornings are coolest, for sure. In early September, McIntosh and Macoun varieties are the most plentiful. Cortland and Empire follow in late September, while Fuji, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp debut in October.
Don’t assume that every orchard offers activities for little ones, such as wagon rides or a petting zoo. While many do, some orchards are just for purists – in and out with a bushel and a peck.
This may seem obvious, but closed-toe boots or shoes, and layers that you can peel off if the temperature climbs, will make everyone’s experience more pleasant.
Maybe it’s for practicality, maybe it’s for sustainability. Either way, it’s a good move.
If you see a winner way high up, ask for assistance. The orchard doesn’t want you injuring yourself over an apple! Plus, climbing can permanently damage trees.
Gently twist the stem upward and roll. Don’t tug or pull down as that can break branches and rip leaves.
Don’t miss out on goodies such as cider, donuts, jams, honey, pies, and muffins.
Keep apples in the crisper drawer in a plastic bag with holes. And don’t store near strong-smelling items as the apples will absorb the odor. Garlic-flavored apples? Never!
Growers Association (RIFGA) which has, for over a century, aided some 30-plus farms to produce a diverse array of fruit. RIFGA members benefit from an ongoing collaboration with University of Rhode Island and the University of Massachusetts cooperative extensions. “Meetings are held at different farms around the
state,” Steere says, “and provide great information about successful growing practices.” It’s all welcome advice, because, as Steere says, apple growing “is not a highly profitable business.”
Hence, the complementary activities and products that attract the public. In fact, the tradition has inspired an
Where to find grown-up apple juice around
Thirty years ago, commercial hard ciders hit the market as an alternative to beer (think Strongbow, Angry Orchard). But according to Spencer Morris, owner of Sowams Cider Works in Warren, hard cider was widely consumed in the early American colonies, a common beverage due to the prevalence of apple orchards. In 2013, Morris started Sowams Cider Works with the aim of producing similar traditional hard ciders, and, in the meantime, trying to make money from apples, “which sometimes seems like an impossible task.” In 2018, Morris opened a tasting room featuring 30-35 small-batch ciders, produced with apples grown on his small orchard in nearby Touisset. “I want to educate people,” he says, explaining that his ciders are “more floral than apple-y,” and “more like wine.” Most surprisingly, his ciders are still, not sparkling. They are available in a handful of liquor stores throughout the state. SowamsCiderWorks.com
In the southern part of the state, Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery in Westerly operates with similar goals: to make the most delicious-tasting bevvies made from apples sourced from Sunset Orchards in North Scituate. They also produce wines with tasty-sounding flavors such as Apple Pie and Blueberry Patch. They, too, are available at stores throughout the state. TappedApple.com
If you prefer non-alcoholic cider, the Hard Pressed Cider Company should be your go-to. Owner Rob Swanson watched his URI friend try to make hard cider out of his closet, and when he graduated in 2009, Swanson ran with the idea, writing a business plan and securing an SBA loan for a food truck. Now, he and wife Jaclyn sell sweet cider, hot mulled cider, and slider slushies, not to mention their delicious cider donuts. Look for the white truck at Windmist Farm in Jamestown, Fridays-Sundays (and holiday Mondays) Labor Day through Thanksgiving. HardPressedCiderCompany.com
addition to the vernacular: the term “agritainment,” coined by author Margo Rabb in a November 2024 article in The Atlantic Monthly magazine. The author argues these enhancements are crucial to small - farm viability, extending harvest windows. Manfredi Farms in Westerly
has amended its growing season with a petting farm (sheep, goats, donkeys), special events (their harvest festival), and a store featuring unique products (Manfredi Farms bloody mary mix). Narrow Lane Orchard in North Kingstown features more than a dozen varieties of apples,
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ripening at different times through fall, plus a mile-long nature trail and an eightfoot-tall, “life-size” Sasquatch, offering up a bright red apple, carved from a tree and Insta-ready.
Even if it’s all about farm-marketing, apple picking still fosters ritual and tradition. For the Chaffee family, the time
by Elyse Major
Make a morning out of scrumptious specials in North Kingstown
By Stacey Place
There are some restaurants that just vibe. You walk in and already feel like you’re home. In North Kingstown, Rome Point Café is that kind of place. It’s the sort of neighborhood restaurant you long to have in your own neighborhood.
When Rome Point opened in 2016, owner Shanna Brazee knew exactly what kind of restaurant she hoped to create. When discussing her business, she was quick to point out that her favorite thing is “the vibe.” She has indeed created a sense of community, where customers know and love the staff, and you can tell the feeling is mutual.
The restaurant has a homey diner-meets-seaside restaurant atmosphere. There are many nods to the water –Rome Point is a favorite spot to find seals, after all – with sandpiper statues and a giant ship’s wheel. For a diner space, the tables are nicely spaced out, and bay windows flank the entrance, each with their own sunny table-for-two.
On the day I visited with a couple of friends, our wonderful waitress quickly led us through the massive menu of breakfast and lunch options. In addition to the regular offerings, there’s a giant wall of specials. We tried to get a sense of what dishes she would recommend. Breakfast and lunch are served
BLT ($5.99 PLUS $2.49): The classic sandwich done right, with a fries add-on.
BANANA BREAD FRENCH TOAST
($6.99): Housemade banana bread with a light egg batter griddled to golden brown, topped with sliced bananas and dusted with cinnamon.
CORNED BEEF REUBEN ($8.99): Tender corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing, on your choice of toasted bread (rye bread, pictured).
On the breakfast menu, we went big! I ordered a special: the crabcake benny. The crabcakes were nicely seasoned and topped with a bed of fresh baby spinach. The poached eggs were cooked perfectly with a nice runny yolk. The Hollandaise sauce was tasty and surprisingly light. Special mention goes to the side of homefries, which, quite frankly, can make or break a breakfast dish, and these were fantastic.
One of my friends had the Rome Point signature item, the egg wrap. The sandwich was stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheese, bacon, and homefries. The ratio of all the ingredients was perfect, and with the addition of some local hot sauce, every bite was as good as the first. We also split an order of banana bread french toast that was so good it seriously didn’t need any syrup or even extra butter. We all loved it. I also sampled a few
bites of the housemade corned beef hash, and it was everything it should be. The beverage menu includes a Nitro Coffee cold brew; served in a glass mason jar, it was java perfection. My other friend is a regular at Rome Point Café, and when she walked in, everybody did, in fact, know her name. She has loved everything she’s ever ordered, but had never sampled lunch before. Our waitress suggested
the special: two cheeseburgers, fries, and a drink for $8.99. If you crave a classic cheeseburger, this is the place. The burgers were served with a plate of lettuce, tomato, and diced onion, and the fries were deliciously munchable. Other standouts for the table were the BLT and the corned beef reuben – also with the fries add-on – which at
less than $9 each is one of the best deals around. In addition to the dining room, there’s Rome Point Next Door, a quick service option with grab-and-go items, that stays open daily until 5pm. Find a range of baked goods, smoothies, juices, and a variety of iced and hot coffees, plus pizza strips from Borelli’s Bakery in Providence.
Located along Boston Neck Road, Rome Point Café is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch en route to Rome Point to see the seals, or discover the lotus pond just steps away. As for me, I hope a spot like this opens in my neighborhood.
French toast you’re sure to go bananas over
Rome Point Cafe
820 Boston Neck Road, North Kingstown 401-294-2122
RomePointCafe.com
Saturday, September 6 | 7:30pm DANNY KLEIN’S FULL HOUSE (J. GEILS)
Friday, September 12 | 7:30pm DOOBIE BROTHERS
TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS
Saturday, September 13 | 7:30pm JOHN MELLENCAMP – PAPER IN FIRE
Thursday, September 18 | 1:30pm & 7pm FRANK SINATRA, NOTHING BUT THE BEST
Friday, September 19 | 7:30pm CARPENTERS, YESTERDAY ONCE MORE
Saturday, September 20 | 7:45pm GUN’S & ROSES – APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION
Friday, September 26 | 7:30pm ALLMAN BROTHERS EXPERIENCE THE BROTHERS PROJECT
Saturday, September 27 | 7:00pm AGING DISGRACEFULLY - FALL AGING
Wednesday, October 1 | 5:30pm JUST DANCE - HALLOWEEN INCLUSION DANCE & PIZZA PARTY
Friday, October 3 | 7:30pm JON POUSETTE – DART: ACOUSTIC DUO W/ JIM CHAPDELAINE
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By Patty J
Think summer is winding down?
Not so fast. Seasonal dining is still in the forecast, as are new places and perennial favorites. Here are eight terrific destinations around the state for everything from fresh veggies and burritos to small plates and haute cuisine. I did the legwork so you don’t have to! Now dig in.
Launched by the wife and husband team of Janet Moscarello and Uriah Donnelly (who have more than five decades of experience in the restaurant biz), this used-bookstoremeets-tavern is a delight. Beyond the neatly organized bookshelves and antique typewriters, you’ll find some of the yummiest small plates and cocktails around. They even make their own ice cream. Warren
Fancy meeting for a bite at the mansion? More specifically, in the recently reimagined carriage house where visitors will find a French-inspired aesthetic and menu just steps from the historic gardens at The Elms. Open daily through the end of September, then weekends in autumn months, reservations are strongly encouraged. Newport
The third and newest restaurant from the Circe Group (owners Carlo Carlozzi and Kyle Poland), this Italian steakhouse offers classic dishes like filets, lobster ravioli, and oysters in a plush atmosphere. Guests are also thrilled with the drink menu and the wait staff. It is fast becoming a destination for both date nights and micro-weddings. Cranston
Naga Coffeehouse
Open since June, this zen oasis is where you can indulge in your next specialty iced coffee or matcha — and a few moments of reflection. The name and minimalist decor are both inspired by Buddhist mythology and a quest to make the ordinary magical. Pro-tip: Get the signature iced brown sugar Saigon drift and a fresh-baked cookie. Cranston
The Roasted Clove
This Middletown delicatessen and caterer is helmed by food and beverage industry vet
Felecia Landers. Located on Aquidneck Avenue in the space formerly occupied by Sig’s Place, they have been winning over hungry customers with their scrumptious and generously sized sandwiches, fresh salads, and oven-fresh cookies since May 2023. Middletown
This seasonal farmstand was opened during the pandemic by Rebecca Wright. Her mission: to bring locally grown produce to her neighbors and friends. The Stand has since expanded its offerings to include flowers,
ice cream, baked goods like sourdough bread from nearby Nana’s, personal care items, and other sundries. Westerly
The 2 Muchachos
Started by besties Daniel Francis and Francisco Henriquez, and situated on Main Street, one of my new favorite food trucks is cooking up some of the tastiest Mexican comfort food in Lil’ Rhody. Their grande burritos live up to their name and the hype, and the loaded fries are out of this world. Also, you simply can’t leave without trying the twisted muchachos churros. Warren
A local writer’s new cookbook is a portrait of the Soviet diaspora through food
By Maggie Pearson
Polina Chesnakova’s journey through food and culture is as rich and layered as the dishes she makes. Born in Ukraine with Russian, Armenian, and Georgian roots, her story reflects the complexities of growing up as an immigrant in the shadow of the Soviet Union’s collapse. Now, as Chesnakova prepares to release her third cookbook, Chesnok: Cooking from My Corner of the
Diaspora: Recipes from Eastern Europe, The Caucasus, and Central Asia , the Providence author offers more than just a collection of recipes. This book delves into her personal culinary journey and cultural roots, sharing the story of her immigrant experience. As Chesnakova says, “It’s a rediscovery of the food that was always in front of me but that I didn’t fully appreciate growing up.”
In 1992, when Chesnakova was just a baby,
her family immigrated to the U.S. from Georgia, after years of waiting for documents amid the dissolution of the Soviet Union. “With a suitcase in one hand and a little wooden basket carrying me, a newborn, in the other, my parents boarded their flight to America,” she shares. This is where her journey begins: arriving in Rhode Island, where she grew up, rooted in her family’s experience.
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Chesnakova’s deep connection to food started early in life. Growing up in an immigrant family, food was central to their lives and served as a means of preserving their heritage. “Food has always been a big focal point of my family and community,” she reflects. The kitchen was where her family shared their history and culture, cooking meals that transcended national boundaries. Beyond her family home, her ties to her Russian post-Soviet church community
in East Providence played a vital role in shaping her culinary identity. It was within this tightknit community that Chesnakova was immersed in the traditions and flavors that continue to inspire her to this day.
In high school, Chesnakova’s love for food grew, leading her to start her blog, Chesnok , in 2016 to preserve the traditional recipes that defined her upbringing. Despite not knowing if anyone would read it, she was personally
compelled to document these dishes for herself and her family. But in 2016, a life-changing car accident left her with lasting physical injuries to her left hand. Unable to work in kitchens, she transitioned to writing full-time and soon found herself contributing to Culture magazine. Her first cookbook, Hot Cheese (2020), was followed by Everyday Cakes (2022). Now, Chesnok marks the culmination of a journey to reconnect with her roots and preserve the
Excerpted with permission from Chesnok: Cooking From My Corner of the Diaspora: Recipes from Eastern Europe, The Caucasus, and Central Asia by: Polina Chesnakova published by Hardie Grant North America, September 2025, RRP $35.00 Hardcover.
flavors that shaped her life.
The title Chesnok , which translates to “head of garlic” in Russian, is a reference to both a key ingredient in her family’s Georgian cooking and the origin of her last name. Dishes blend flavors in a way that is uniquely her own, describing it as “Slavic recipes with a Georgian accent.” Her version of borscht, for example, adds cilantro and chili pepper, breathing new
life to a classic soup. Another standout is her tabaka-style adjika chicken, which she calls “my family’s go-to chicken recipe.” The mayonnaise-based marinade keeps the chicken moist and tender, while the adjika paste adds spice and heat; Chesnakova notes that the adjika paste can easily be substituted with chopped Portuguese hot peppers for a local twist. For dessert, find offerings like Armenian butter pastry (gata), which falls somewhere between a rugelach and strudel with its striking spiralled layers.
“They are traditional dishes, done exceptionally well, that my family has relied on time and time again to knit us together and remind us of the home we left behind.” Chesnok is not only a celebration of food but also a love letter to the culture that shaped Chesnakova. “This book is about rediscovering my heritage and reconnecting with the food that ties us together,” she says. “It’s for anyone who wants to learn about the richness and diversity of Eastern European cuisine and the people who carry it forward.” Learn more at PolinaChesnakova.com
Churros in Westerly, Wakefield’s pizza master awarded (again), and Coventry’s new BBQ superstore
Award-winning pizza in Wakefield
Pasquale Illiano grew up just outside Naples, Italy with a singular mission: to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza to American soil. At Pasquale’s Pizzeria Napolitana in South County, that dream burns bright. Since opening, Pasquale has racked up international praise and prestigious awards, the latest being a top honor: #13 in the U.S. on
the coveted 50 Top Pizza list, curated by 150 anonymous pizza experts from Italy. It’s far from his first appearance on the list — and certainly not his last. Pasquale’s roots run deep in Naples, where he trained in Old World pizzerias known for their impossibly thin, chewy crusts and simple, fresh toppings. “We import everything –
the cheese, the tomatoes, the olive oil – straight from Campania,” he says. The dough? Made from the finest Italian flour, fresh yeast, and water – then blistered to perfection in a hand-built, wood-fired oven crafted by a Neapolitan master. 59 South County Commons Way, Wakefield, PasqualesPizzeriaRI.com – Ann Martini
Where can you sit in a hand-shaped chair and enjoy a channoli ? That question was answered early last month when OZZO – purveyor of waffles, churros, and ice cream – officially opened with a ribbon cutting. For nearly a year, Kristal Francese had been dropping breadcrumbs about a business venture with her husband Adam.
“We’re two food-obsessed dreamers who grew up in families where food isn’t just fuel – it’s love, connection, and celebration. So, we’re creating a space that captures all those cravings and turns them into something exciting, trendy, and just a little unexpected,” a post explained. Now open in Westerly, find a shiny black interior
illuminated with neon and warmed by leafy plants. So, what’s a channoli ? Why a cannoli-stuffed churro, of course. Warm, crispy cinnamon-sugar churros can also be found dipped in soft serve with sprinkles. There are also specialty coffees and other sweet treats. 92 Granite Street, Westerly. OzzoChurros.com – Elyse Major
Just because you may have packed your swimsuit away, it doesn’t mean your grill spatula has to be relegated to the back of the drawer. Late-summer kicks off a season of outdoor cooking without the blazing heat, and finding the perfect vessel just got easier. Six years after opening their first store, Rhode Island natives Sam and
Ben Sholes expanded their business with Sholes Supply Backyard & Barbecue in Coventry. The new space boasts the largest selection of premium grills in Rhode Island, and includes smokers, pizza ovens, fire pits, griddles, and backyard accessories. The showroom features top brands like Big Green Egg, Napoleon, and Weber,
alongside fire pits, and entertaining accessories. “Big Green Eggs can hold temperature even in the winter,” says Sam. “Traegers let you monitor them remotely from your couch!” Look for the new venture opposite their Ace Hardware store in Washington Plaza. 639 Washington Street, Coventry. SholesSupply.com – Elyse Major
Catching the last waves at Gansett
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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.
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