Hey Rhody October 2025

HOMETOWN HEATING CHAMPIONS

Propane Plus Heating & Cooling is a family-owned company proudly serving Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts for over 35 years. They specialize in propane delivery and offer a full range of heating and cooling services, including installation, maintenance, and repairs.

What makes Propane Plus different is their commitment to people. The Propane Plus team treats every home as if it were their own, delivering reliable service with the personal touch you only get from a local, family-run business. Over the years, they’ve built our reputation on honesty, dependability, and quality — and refer to their customers as part of the Propane Plus Family.

Instead of thinking of what they do as “customer service,” the team at Propane Plus believes in creating an exceptional customer experience. From the coldest winter nights to the hottest summer days, you can count on Propane Plus to be there — keeping your home safe, comfortable, and running smoothly all year long.

Their mission is simple: to make home comfort easy and affordable while building lasting relationships with the families we serve. Whether it’s dependable propane delivery, a seasonal tune-up, an urgent repair, or new equipment installation, the Propane Plus team is there so you can focus on enjoying your home — not worrying about it.

THEY’RE ESPECIALLY EXCITED TO SHARE A FEW NEW OFFERINGS WITH OUR COMMUNITY:

• Family Service Plan: Providing peace of mind with regular system health checks, discounts on repairs, preventative maintenance, and other valuable perks.

• Meter Program: A free service that uses residential propane meters to track actual usage. Instead of paying per delivery, you’ll enjoy simple monthly payments that take the guesswork out of heating costs and make budgeting easier.

What their customers love most is that they’re local, familyowned, and truly care. When you call, you’ll hear a friendly voice. When they arrive, the techs are on time, professional, and ready to get the job done right. It’s the little things — remembering your name, explaining a repair, or showing up when you need it most — that make you feel like family.

At Propane Plus, you’re more than a customer — you’re family. No matter the season, no matter the weather, Propane Plus Heating & Cooling is always there to keep you warm, cool, and always comfortable.

Your H oli d a y, Our Ki t ch e ns .

E a s y O r der Onlin e . P ick u p in S to re . ww w. d a v e s c a t erin g ri . c o m

News & Culture

14: ARTS: Custom spearguns made by a Richmond diver catch on

16 RHODY READS: Six picks from a Providence bookstore

18 RHODY GEM: Meander West Kingston backroads to discover a picturesque pottery studio

20 RHODY PETS: Three adoptable pets of the month

22 CALENDAR:

This month’s must-do’s

23 RHODY BEER, WINE & SPIRITS TRAIL: Map a tasty trek of vineyards, brews, and distillers

Home & Style

A17 SPECIAL FALL INSPO: Westerly DIY-er shares simple ways to transition decor to autumn

A26 MAKERS: Five botanicalinspired artists

A30 WORKSHOP: Experience scented candle-making at a Pawtucket class

Food & Drink

72 EXPERIENCE: An artisanal lunch at the state’s oldest vineyard in Little Compton

76 FALL SIPS: Autumn beer and spirits made for starry nights by the firepit

78 ROUNDUP: Eight seasonal bites returning to menus

80 HEY RHODY PHOTOS: A colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram

CONTRIBUTORS

CARLI

ALVES

Westerly’s Carli Alves gives tips on transitioning decor to fall (page A17). On her blog Made by Carli , Alves shares her expertise for DIY and interior design. Her home has been featured in Yankee , and she has been named one of 102 Black Designers, Crafters, Makers, and More to Follow on Instagram Now by Country Living

PATTY JEFFREY

Patty J is a lifelong Rhode Islander who shares our mission of spotlighting the best of everything the state has to offer. For October, she dishes about seasonal favorites returning to menus. Find everything from mashed potatoes to apple hand-pies, cider donuts, and more. The tasty trek begins on page 78.

Upcoming Events

EMILY HOMONOFF

In “Natural Instincts” (page A26), Emily Homonoff introduces readers to five makers who find inspiration and supplies from outside. Homonoff and her mom, frequent contributor Robin Kall, recently launched Plot Twist Media, providing public relations and marketing for authors and writers. Hobbies include adventuring with her pup.

ANN MARTINI

Our own Ann Martini visited Matunuck’s tented restaurant for a conversation with owner Perry Raso. In “The World Is His Oyster,” Raso shares about the eatery’s humble start, the fire, and the path to building back. This semester, find Martini teaching writing and rhetoric on the campuses of both URI and CCRI.

Publishers

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Richard Fleischer

John Howell

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Interested in advertising?

Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com

Contributing Photographers

Carli Alves

Nicholas D. Brown

George Corrigan

Victoria Costello

Contributing Writers

Carli Alves

Ben Berke

Emily Homonoff

Interested in writing?

Rachel Hogge Karen Kalunian Zach Pona Tandem

Patty Jeffrey Karen Kalunian

Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com

Caitlyn Bailey

Anthony Joseph Ethan Major

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NEWS & CULTURE

Music | Maker | Rhody Reads | Rhody Gem | Rhody Pets | Calendar

A Slice of Music City

Nashville vibes take flight in Westerly with new partnership and concert series

By Ken Abrams

Country music fans in Rhode Island have a new reason to celebrate: the legendary Bluebird Café in Nashville is heading north. In a groundbreaking partnership, The United Theatre in Westerly is launching the “Bluebird at The United” concert series, bringing the intimate, songwriter-driven experience of the Bluebird Café to Rhode Island as part of the theater’s “Nashville North” initiative.

The Bluebird, famous for launching the careers of icons like Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks, and Faith Hill, is celebrated for its “in the round” shows, where artists reveal the emotional and creative journeys behind their music. Organizers at The United aim to replicate that magic when they kick off the series on November 8, welcoming three of Nashville’s top songwriters, Victoria Banks, Phil Barton, and Emily Shackelton, artists who have written hits for Reba McEntire and Lee Brice, among others. The intimate format places them center stage to share their songs and the stories behind them.

The theater celebrates 100 years in 2026

Unfortunately, you can’t get tickets for that show. “It sold out in short order,” says United’s Executive Director Carly Callahan. “People were so excited about it, and there was disappointment from those who missed their chance at tickets. The good news is that we have dates quarterly through 2026, beginning in March. So, we have plenty of upcoming opportunities coming up.”

Following the November series debut, shows are scheduled for March 14, June 6, September 12, and November 7 in 2026, part of a year-long celebration of songwriting excellence. “We’re confident that we’re going to be able to transfer the essence of the Bluebird experience here and give our audiences and

BLUEBIRD AT THE UNITED 2026

Watch for ticket sale announcements from the theater for the following upcoming partnership concerts: March 14, June 6, September 12, and November 7. UnitedTheatre.org/shows

our community the opportunity to get a taste of some of that magic that people are so lucky to witness down in Nashville,” adds Callahan.

The Bluebird Café has already hosted events in far-flung locales including Napa Valley, Santa Fe, and London, and was looking to expand its footprint into the Northeast. Bluebird General Manager Erica Wollman Nichols heard about the burgeoning music scene in Westerly from touring artists and visited The United last December. “She toured our space, walked around the town, saw what was going on, and agreed that this was a good and natural expansion,” says Callahan.

Westerly has always had a vibrant music scene, with celebrated local bands like Roomful

of Blues and The Knickerbocker All-Stars leaning more toward R&B than country. However, in recent years, The United and partner venue,

The Knickerbocker Music Center, have made efforts to book more country and Americana artists. So, it’s no surprise that the theater is taking this initiative – it’s established itself as a destination for Americana music, a genre that blends country, rock, folk, and blues. Organizers are also working with the Nashville-based Country Music Hall of Fame and Taylor Swift Education Center. “They have a program called Words and Music, which is their songwriter education program,” says Callahan. “It’s an eightweek session where kids are taught by a singer-songwriter who is part of the Hall of Fame.”

The United is a mixed-use facility and serves 65,000 people annually, including over 400 students weekly in their music school.

“We have three movie theaters, a small gallery, and a live events space, plus our music school,” says Callahan. “I think that one of the reasons the model works is because we are able to leverage so many different spaces at the same time.” Their audience includes locals and visitors. “We have a big South County crowd, and southeastern Connecticut audience, who are coming regularly,” says Artistic Director Tony Nunes. “For bigger shows, we’re pulling from Providence, New Haven, and all over the Northeast. We’re actually hitting a national audience for some of these shows.”

Dive Deep, Dream Big

How a Richmond spearfisherman is making waves by turning a passion into a business

By Ken Abrams

Spearfishing is growing in popularity in Rhode Island

When people think of sport fishing in Rhode Island, they often visualize anglers casting rods over freshwater lakes or fishing boats cruising the open sea. But that’s not the case for Matt Novakovich, an experienced spear fisherman who manufactures spearguns and sells them to fellow enthusiasts.

While you may have seen videos of speargun fishermen hunting colorful fish in exotic tropical locations, the sport has also gained popularity right here. “It’s the sport of chasing fish underwater, which can happen anywhere,” explains Novakovich, founder/owner of Ocean State Spearguns, who designs and produces the marine tools in his garage in Richmond. “It used to be kind of a niche sport,” says Novakovich, who credits a hunting and fishing show on Netflix called MeatEater . “The host, Steve Renella, has started spearfishing and films himself spearfishing. It’s the most popular hunting and fishing show out there.”

Novakovich, who began as a conventional fisherman, crafts his spearguns by hand, utilizing

traditional woodworking tools and methods, which ensures that each piece is unique. His father was in the woodworking business, and Novakovich started building spearguns for personal use several years ago. “One thing led to another, and I started building guns for friends – area dive buddies,” he explains. Word got out about the high quality of his guns through online forums, and he turned a hobby into a business. At the same time, spearfishing gained traction, also fueled by social media and high-resolution underwater cameras. From modest beginnings, Novakovich’s spearguns are now sold to customers as far away as Hawaii and Australia.

Novakovich says divers in Rhode Island coastal waters face certain limitations. “Here in New England, we’re usually hunting at shallower depths because of poor visibility and the availability of the fish,” he explains. “You don’t need to get down deep. We don’t have the best visibility either. Most of the spearfishing we do here is on free dives, without scuba gear. Some scuba guys here spearfish, but for the most part, we are doing breath-hold diving, which

means, of course, holding your breath. You can get down to some decent depths. I free-dive down to 80 feet – some guys get down to 100.”

At present, it’s still a part-time operation for Novakovich, an engineer by day, who hopes to go full-time with the business in the future. He builds guns in several styles, starting with the popular entry-level Sugar Reef gun. More experienced divers often opt for higher-end gear, such as the flagship Watch Hill Reef gun.

“It’s shaped almost like a surfboard,” says Novakovich. The top-of-the-line Atlantis, which features three to four bands used to power the spear, is popular among advanced users.

Most of the spearguns are made to order, but a few models have made it into surf and fishing shops, including a dive shop in Long Island, New York. “Fishing tackle shops are starting to carry them as well; I have some generic guns that are pretty popular dimension-wise, but for the most part, all of my guns are built to order,” he says. “They usually take about a two-week turnaround.” Learn more at OceanStateSpearguns.com.

Rhody Reads

What’s hot for Halloween at Symposium Books

By Scott McCullough and Anne Marie Keohane

For book lovers, autumn is the perfect time for a jaunt to Westminster Street for all the academic and Providence atmosphere. Here are six things we’re digging right now at Symposium Books, perfect for reading at our bistro tables outside the store with a hot cup of coffee.

The journalist who inspired readers – and movie watchers – to eat, pray, and love, and to live creatively beyond fear, returns with her first nonfiction book in a decade. All the Way to the River – Love, Loss, and Liberation – is a powerful and unyielding memoir that delves into the author’s experiences with love, addiction, recovery, and loss.

The bestselling author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History , and Yellowface , R.F. Kuang returns with Katabasis , a dark academia fantasy revolving around grad students Alice and Peter, who must put aside

their rivalry to help save their magician-professor’s soul from Hell. Will they succeed in their mission, or will it lead to their own doom?

Need a chilling riddle of a read? Strange Pictures by Uketsu is sure to fit the bill. Translated into English, it’s the work of the Japanese horror-illustrator/author/YouTube sensation known only by a singular nom de plume. Structured around nine childlike drawings, each holding a clue, it’s a puzzle of a tale that allows readers to solve the mystery right alongside the narrator.

Released in September, fans of the Bunny-verse are sure to delight in We Love You, Bunny by Mona Awad. The highly anticipated follow-up to the viral sensation Bunny, is brilliantly written, laugh-out-loud funny, dark, and delirious. Margaret Atwood is a fan, calling the work “soooo genius.” We Love You,

Bunny is both a prequel and a sequel, but also a complete stand-alone novel.

The fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel gets retold in a new picture book authored by Stephen King. The illustrations are by the lategreat Maurice Sendak ( Where the Wild Things Are ), originally created as set and costume designs for a 1997 opera. This Halloween treat released last month, makes the perfect gift for fans of King, Sendak, and the Brothers Grimm, no calories!

In Extraction – The Frontiers of Green Capitalism , Providence College political science professor Thea Riofranco asks the question: is it possible to save the world by harming it in the process? In this engrossing read, discover an in-depth investigation into the growing industry of green technologies and the environmental, social, and political consequences of the mining it requires.

ABOUT SYMPOSIUM BOOKS

Give the gift of indie books with a Symposium Books gift card. Order online at SymposiumBooks.com

For more than 20 years, Symposium Books has been downtown Providence’s go-to for books, vinyl, fun merch, and conversation. Named after the ancient Greek dialog by Plato, the elegant storefront on Westminster Street has built a solid reputation for its stellar selection of new, used, and bargain books across various genres – including independent presses, academic publishers, and art publishers. Shelves are filled with a diverse range of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, which promote differing voices and perspectives. “Symposium Books is known for fostering a welcoming environment for book lovers in a cozy space,” says Scott McCullough, who coowns the business with wife Anne Marie Keohane. “Also, check out our highly-curated vinyl section. Plus keep an eye out for our author events, book clubs, silent book clubs, music nights, and other events.” 240 Westminster Street, Providence

Peter Pots Pottery

Hand-crafted stoneware, home goods, and local provisions

What it is:

A showroom featuring handcrafted stoneware, pottery, and accessories made on site and sourced from around New England.

Where to find it:

At the intersection of James Road and Glen Rock Road, in West Kingston, just up the street from Kenyon’s Grist Mill.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

Founded in 1948 by Oliver and Elizabeth Greene, then students at the Rhode Island School of Design, Peter Pots Pottery is now owned and operated by their son, Jeffrey. Best known for award-winning dinnerware, they also sell assorted home goods carefully sourced from throughout the region. Enjoy browsing handcrafted wares, plus kitchen accessories, and favorites like wildflower honey from nearby apiaries, and Kenyon’s Johnny Cake Mix. Each fall, the annual release of ceramic jack-o-lanterns takes center stage. “We only make a few each day,” says Jeffrey. “They vary greatly depending on who is doing the carving and their inspiration.” Some feature classic smiling faces, while others lean toward the eerie or elaborate, with this year’s collection reaching 900 unique designs. Don’t miss their one-day, in-person event, known as the Pumpkin Bash, on October 11.

Peter Pots Pottery

494 Glen Rock Road, West Kingston PeterPots.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!

Take

Attend Public Workshops: Check our webpage for details on community workshops.

Review and Comment: Help shape the plan during the formal comment period.

Rhody Pets of the Month

By Karen Kalunian

LLooking to welcome a new furry friend into your home?

Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters 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.

Angel

BREED: Lab/rottweiler mix

AGE: 5

GENDER: Male

Like so many other pets that end up in a shelter, Angel lost his home when his parents went into a nursing home. While that’s heartbreaking enough, he was given up to the shelter along with his brother, who was later found to have cancer and has since passed. At just five years old, Angel has been through so much, yet still has so much love in his heart. He will need to be your one and only pet in a home with a fenced-in yard, where he can run, play, and bask in the sun.

WARWICK ANIMAL SHELTER

401-468-4377

Sally

BREED: Tabby

AGE: 6

GENDER: Female

Sally looks right into your heart with her big, beautiful eyes. She deserves to be in a loving home where she can blossom and feel safe, and is best suited for a quiet space where she can sit by a sunny window and enjoy life. Her coat is so soft with a pretty light gray tabby stripe accented by her bright green eyes; she’s such a pretty girl. Give Sally a chance in your home and lots of love, and she will be forever grateful.

WEST WARWICK ANIMAL SHELTER

401-615-3388

BREED: Australian cattle mix

AGE: 1

GENDER: Female

If you’re searching for a pup to go on adventures with, look no further than Kayley. She has a zest for life and loves to be active, go on walks, hikes, and play fetch. She’s just over a year old so still has some puppy energy, but also likes to hang out and snuggle. She likes other playful pups and is quite smart. Kayley would probably love to do doggie agility. She is a wonderful dog whose smile will steal your heart!

RHODE HOME RESCUE rhodehomerescue@gmail.com

The Must List

10 essential events this month

For weekly Musts, subscribe to our newsletter at HeyRhody.com

Through November 1: Bring the family and stroll through Rhody’s favorite pumpkin patch when the Roger Williams Park Zoo welcomes the return of the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular , with hundreds of trivia-themed, masterfully carved, candlelit gourds. RWPZoo.org

Weekends through October 26: Phantom Farms presents Fall Fest , with hay rides, pumpkin painting, and a maze, plus treats like candy apples, apple cider donuts, with seasonal mums, pumpkins, and corn stalks for sale. Cumberland, PhantomFarms.com

October 4: You’ve seen them on America’s Got Talent – don’t miss Puppy Pals Live , an action-packed show where adopted and rescued dogs perform spectacular stunts, comical tricks, and breathtaking feats. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com

October 4-5: Shop vintage and pre-loved clothing, vintage records, art, home goods, furniture, plus a free book swap at Little City Thrifty , a curated experience of rummaged regalia held at the WaterFire Arts Center featuring 90 booths. LittleCityThrifty.com

October 9: Join AccessPoint RI to celebrate 60 years of service and support for the lives of Rhode Islanders with disabilities.

The Celebrating 60 Gala at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet includes awards, raffles, dinner, and dancing. Cranston, AccessPointRI.org

October 11-12: The inaugural Rhode Island Country Fall Music Festival features awardwinning artists Jimmie Allen and Pam Tillis, along with local greats Billy Gillman and Kevin Herchen, plus local seafood and a craft beer garden. West Greenwich, RIMusicFestivals.com

October 13: Honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the Providence Honkfest , also known as PRONK, a people-powered celebration of music, art, social justice, and community featuring local, national, and international street bands. Facebook: Providence Honk Fest

October 17-25: Wicked Weeks returns with a roster of uniquely Wickford activities, including the Witches Paddle (10/19), Spooky Sip and Stroll (10/23), and capping with the Horribles Parade (10/25), plus many other events throughout the week. Wickford, WickfordVillage.org

October 17-19: Legendary music venue The Met celebrates Lupo’s 50th Anniversary over three nights, with RI greats Hope Anchor, The Wild Turkey Band, Steve Smith and the Nakeds, The Schemers, Rizz, Roomful of Blues, and special guests. Pawtucket, TheMetRI.com

October 19-26: The 10th annual URI Guitar Festival features a week of concerts, guest artist master classes, workshops, lectures, the Rising Stars Young Guitarists Program, and an online international guitar competition. Kingston, URIGuitarFestival.org

Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail

Enjoy a full lineup of artisan craft beer, cocktails & spirits. Relax inside our family-friendly taproom with a board game, or enjoy the sunshine at our pet friendly outdoor beer garden. Wood burning pizza oven on site. 65 Canal Street, Westerly. 401.596.4151, GreySailBrewing.com.

At Jonathan Edwards Winery, enjoy award winning wine in a relaxed picturesque setting. Open daily, year round. Shop wine and event tickets online at JEdwardsWinery.com. 74 Chester Maine Road, North Stonington, CT, (860) 215-3725.

BAY VINEYARD

A charming, small-batch boutique vineyard serving guests in a beautifully restored barn and inviting outdoor patio that features live music and a variety of food options. 237 New Boston Rd. Fairhaven, MA PeaceLoveVino.net.

New England’s most awarded distillery offers craft cocktails using 100% house-made ingredients, flights, beer, sangria, mocktails and more in a unique industrial-meetsspeakeasy vibe. 1425 Kingstown Road, South Kingstown. 401-2844006, DrinkSOL.com.

We believe nothing connects people like sharing a great beer or a delicious bite. Take refuge from the daily hustles of life in our historic taproom or our beautiful beer garden. 334 Knight Street, Warwick. (401) 744-0415, ApponaugBrewing.com

THE GUILD

RI’s largest craft brewery serves up small-batch beers and hard seltzers in three RI locations. Visit TheGuildRI.com for PVD, Warren & Pawtucket unique offerings.

LANGWORTHY INN & WINERY

The Langworthy Inn & Winery, a 7-bedroom B&B and Winery, located at 308 Shore Rd in Westerly RI just minutes from beaches, restaurants & shops in the Weekapaug, Watch Hill & Misquamicut areas. Visit this gem of the SE New England’s vineyards & wineries for a wine tasting, weekend getaway or private event. langworthyinn.com

RHODE ISLAND SPIRITS

Pawtucket’s award winning Rhodium gins & vodkas feature flavors built from fresh, farmed & foraged ingredients. Newly relocated. Tasting Flights & Cocktails. 40 Bayley Street, Pawtucket, RhodeIslandSpirits.com

Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery turning locally sourced apples into a variety of handcrafted hard ciders and wines. 37 High Street, Westerly. TappedApple.com.

Back2Back Boutique

Ballet RI

Blackstone Valley Glass Center

Casa Azul

Cold Brook Cafe

Presenting Hey Rhody Cafe

Distefano Brothers

Donna's Door Decor

Floral Designs by Donna

Grace's Stuffies

Nauti Girl Boutique

Sanctuary Herbs

Sherlock Farms

South County Tourism The

Outdoors The Great

A FIELD GUIDE TO EXPLORING THE STATE’S NATURAL TREASURES

By Bob Curley and Elyse Major

With temperatures dropping, even most indoor types are ready to leave their air-conditioned nests and get outside. While Rhode Island is nicknamed the Ocean State, more than 50 percent is forested, making it ideal for spending time outdoors. Little Rhody boasts a network of management areas (actively managed for activities from hiking to horseback riding to hunting), parks, preserves, and wildlife refuges. There are also 60 miles of paved trails for biking and walking, hundreds of miles of hiking trails for all skill levels, numerous fishing spots, and boat launches and ramps. So grab your bug spray and boots, sunscreen and sneakers, it’s time for adventure!

FISHING

One of the richest fisheries on the East Coast, Narragansett Bay alone covers 150 square miles, and the state’s water area is nearly half that of its land mass. Saltwater fishing predominates – this is, after all, the Ocean State – but the state also has about 100 lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams that are designated freshwater fishing areas. Rhode Island Department of Environment Management (DEM) stocks brown, brook, rainbow, and golden rainbow trout in locations from Barrington to Burrillville each spring; catch a rare golden rainbow trout, take a photo, and receive a special pin from DEM. Native largemouth bass lurk in locations like Breakheart Pond in Exeter and Worden Pond in South Kingstown. You also may hook carp, perch, pickerel, pike, bullheads, and catfish.

Only handheld rod-and-reel fishing is permitted in the fresh waters of Rhode Island. Fly-fishing has become increasingly popular, says Kimberly Sullivan, DEM’s aquatic resource education coordinator and principal fisheries

by

A Trio of New Creatures Beckon Trolling the State

Renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo and his team of builders returned to the Ocean State in August and left behind three new trolls. Built from recycled materials – and one 28-foot rusted lifeboat sourced from Facebook Marketplace – the sculptures make their permanent homes in Arcadia State Park, East Providence, and North Kingstown. Dambo is the world’s leading recycle artist, with installations in more than 20 countries on five continents, and over 125 trolls scattered around the world, including sites in Maine and New Jersey.

Bringing Dambo and his creatures to Rhode Island is part of a long-term plan to create an attraction that places the mythical creatures at locations around the state, “to form a Rhode Island ‘troll trail’,” says South County Tourism president Louise Bishop.

Dambo is committed to repairing the environment and uses his talent to promote environmental awareness. He’s developed a narrative, telling the troll’s stories through poetry and fairy tales.

“My poems are an important part of my art. They set the scene and are the whole backbone of my installation,” he says. “I try to tell a story that has relevance in the area, under the umbrella of a larger story. My bigger story is that trolls are basically the animals and the plants – my trolls are nature, you could say. My stories are about the clash between humanity and nature. My trolls are the unspoken warriors of the plants and the animals that can’t speak. That’s the symbolism of my stories.”

Dambo works directly with local communities, assembling his sculptures with the help of volunteers of all ages.

“It’s a little bit of school and a lot of fun,” he says. “We learn how to build something big. It’s always nice to meet local people; they invite us for a barbecue or tell us the best places to go.”

“The purpose of my art is to show how we can be better humans,” says Dambo. “I think we should be less wasteful and more mindful of the resources we have. We should try and preserve those resources and not contaminate the natural environment. We are super wasteful in the way we use and discard things, so I try to educate through stories, sculpture, art talks, and my poems.” –Ken Abrams

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.

EXPLORE MORE

Paddles, walks, and more abound right here where we live. Find maps, outfitters, resources, and more at ExploreRI.org

CAMPING

Fun and affordable, choose from campsites tucked into the woods or just a stone’s throw from the shore.

• Burlingame State Campground*

• Charlestown Breachway State Campground

• East Beach State Campground

• Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground

• George Washington State Campground*

*Cabins available and include two bunk beds with boards for the base Camping season ends during or at the end of October for most campgrounds; see availability and reserve online at RIParks.RI.gov

HIKING

The Ocean State is filled with beautiful places to hike, including these nature refuges maintained by the Audubon Society of RI. Find more at ASRI.org, and for an expansive list of statewide trails, visit ExploreRI.org.

• Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, Tiverton

• Long Pond Woods Wildlife Refuge, Rockville

• Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge, Coventry

• Powder Mill Ledges, Smithfield

• Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuge, Warren

• Waterman Pond Wildlife Refuge, Coventry

CYCLING

Rhode Island has more than 60 miles of paved trails for biking, and the Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority offers Rack-N-Ride, meaning all RIPTA buses have bike racks that are free, making cycling the state a breeze.

• Blackstone River Bikeway

• East Bay Bike Path

• Fred Lippitt Woonasquatucket River Greenway

• Quonset Bike Path

• South County Bike Path

• Ten Mile River Greenway

• Warren Bike Path

• Washington Secondary Bike Path

Get details about paths, maps, and parking at DOT.RI.gov

Experience PVD from a new vantage point in a single or tandem kayak; through mid-October. Learn more at ProvidenceKayak.com

HUNTING

Like almost everything in Rhode Island, the local hunting population is tiny. In 2023, the state sold about 8,000 hunting licenses, or 0.7 for every 100 people – the second-lowest rate in the US. Despite the disparity in participation, however, the state’s resources for hunting and fishing are vast – at least in proportion to Rhode Island’s small size. “The hunting community here is small,” says Maddie Proulx, outdoor education administrative assistant at the State of Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM). “Everyone knows everyone because it’s Rhode Island.” The number of people who fish in Rhode Island, by contrast, is huge, with more than 50,000 recreational fishing license holders. Between recreational and commercial fishing, the industry contributes an estimated $419 million to the state economy each year.

DEM manages over 60,000 acres of public land, most of which is available to hunters and trappers, and some private property owners also permit hunting on their land. Rhode Island allows hunting of a surprisingly diverse list of species, from the familiar (deer, turkey) to the unusual (pheasant, mourning doves) to the unexpected (coyotes, foxes, rabbits, squirrels). Most hunting in the state takes place from camouflaged blinds or tree stands, although pheasant hunters typically pursue the birds using hunting dogs that flush them from their hiding spots. State law sets limits on the number of animals that can be taken, although hunters are usually satisfied if they come home with even one kill. “Deer have gotten smarter over the years: they look up for people in the trees now,” says John Dexter, president of Narragansett Bow Hunters, an archery club based in Exeter. “It’s a real challenge.”

Fur trapping, practiced by Native American inhabitants of Rhode Island for thousands of years, continues into the 21st century, notably beaver trapping. “When I was a kid, we had no beavers,” says Jim Trappero, hunter safety education coordinator for DEM’s Fish and Wildlife division. “Now, they’re everywhere. They’re rodents, so they’re prolific.” In fact, beavers have become so common in Rhode Island that the trapping limit for residents was recently raised from 20 to 40 per season.

Hunters may use bows (long, re-curve, compound, and crossbows) to bag game, as well as shotguns and muzzle-loading rifles. A state license is required whether you hunt with a bow or a gun. “Archery is a lot cheaper than guns, but it’s a lot harder to kill an animal with a bow and arrow,” says Dexter.

Rhode Island Outdoors

Find fishing, hunting, and boating licenses and permits, plus maps and more, all in one place at this site run by DEM. RIO.RI.gov

“I take the life of an animal very seriously, and have profound respect for the creatures I hunt”

The 40-plus DEM-administered management areas are the state’s prime hunting areas, although hunting also is permitted at some state parks, Nature Conservancy properties, and National Wildlife Refuges. These range from well-known protected lands like Arcadia Management Area in Exeter and the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge in Charlestown to lesser-known spots like Prudence Island and Patience Island in Narragansett Bay. Rules vary from location to location regarding what can be hunted or caught, what weapons and traps can be used, and the time of year hunting can take place. For example, only coyote hunting is permitted on Patience Island, whereas bow hunters can go after deer and raccoons on Prudence Island.

Nicholas Farm Management Area in Coventry is particularly well known for hunting pheasant (DEM stocks birds here annually for hunting), while the South Shore Management Area in Charlestown has public pit blinds surrounding a goose landing field, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Not everyone who picks up a bow or a gun uses it to hunt: some Rhode Islanders limit their shooting to the range rather than aiming at live targets. Gun clubs across the state operate shooting ranges, and DEM has a public range in the Great Swamp Management Area that also includes a clay-shooting course. The Preserve in Richmond recently expanded their sporting clays course to 19. Each shooting station, including openair and covered positions, has six clay throwers that are strategically and regularly moved to ensure shooters a dynamic and challenging experience.

Local Artist Brings Style to Preserve Signage

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has been conserving land in Rhode Island since the 1960s and locally, has 25 nature preserves that are open for people to enjoy time in nature. As part of their strategic plan, the organization is focused on making the places they protect more broadly welcoming to new hikers and folks that traditionally haven’t been invited to participate in outdoor recreation, or who may not feel safe in nature. “One way to do that is through signage and trail maps that are geared toward those first-time visitors, with bold colors, brief but clear trail descriptions, and graphics that mirror the diversity of the Rhode Island community. Spanish and Portuguese translations are available through a QR code,” says Tim Mooney, TNC director of marketing and communications.

To that end, Tim Tait, a graphic designer and artist who lives in North Scituate, designed the new look for the signs at Beaver River Preserve, Moshassuck River Preserve, Queens River Preserve, Goosewing Beach Preserve, and others. “The signs are designed to be welcoming and informative to a more diverse and wider audience, while strengthening The Nature Conservancy brand recognition,” says Tait.

Over the past year, TNC has installed new trailhead signs at four preserves: Moshassuck River in Lincoln, Queen’s River in Exeter, Beaver River in Richmond, and Goosewing Beach in Little Compton. Designs were recently finalized for new signs at the Canonchet Brook Preserve in Hopkinton to be installed this fall. “Over the next year, TNC will expand the project to three more preserves: Ell Pond in Hopkinton, Cuttyhunk Brook in Exeter, and Tillinghast Pond in West Greenwich, and possibly Block Island. “Big thanks to Eagle Scout Nate Bourgoin and the North Kingstown Boy Scouts for building the nice kiosks, and Tim Tait for bringing it to life!” –Elyse Major

FARM-TO-TABLE

For many Rhode Island anglers and hunters, however, enjoyment of the sport is not just for thrills, but to put food on the table. “It’s crucial to me that I utilize every part of the animal I harvest,” adds Proulx, who hunts deer and game birds like wild turkeys and Canadian geese. “I take the life of an animal very seriously, and have profound respect for the creatures I hunt. Even if I don’t bring something home, the experience of waking up with the birds and witnessing a beautiful sunrise makes those 3am alarm clock mornings worthwhile.”

Field Trips: Just Batty on October 11

First formed by elementary art teacher Melissa Guillet as a gardening program for her students, 15 Minute Field Trips offers handson educational programs at the intersection of art, nature, advocacy, and community. Although they are based in Johnston and work primarily in the Providence area, fully mobile programming allows Guillet and her team to set up and host activities at camps, farms, parks, libraries, and schools across the state. Join them for Just Batty! to learn about Rhode Island fruit bats through games, trivia, and puppet-making, plus what you can do to help. Meets at Blackstone Field, Providence. Updates at 15MinuteFieldTrips.org –Ethan Major

Melissa Guillet digs into a 15 Minute Field Trip held

Another way to participate in the food chain is to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Perhaps you’ve enjoyed agritourism activities such as fruit picking and have thought about growing produce yourself. Among the benefits of food grown locally is that it minimizes the transportation – not only reducing pollution but also lowering consumer cost. Why have lettuce trucked from California when farms, including Gotham Greens in Providence, provide fresh, sustainable, and flavorful varieties minutes away? If you don’t have access to land, there may be a community garden near you – garden plots available to rent. There’s also the Fellows Program at Shewatuck Farm, a property in North Kingstown that provides a host of resources and services to help cultivate new farm and food ventures. If the idea of starting a farm appeals to you, the Rhode Island Farm Bureau Federation is a great place to begin. Check out their So You Want to Start a Farm sheet, available at RIFB.org

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HOME & STYLE

Fall Home Inspo | Makers | Workshop

Fall Home & Garden

Inspiration and budget-friendly advice for transitioning your abode for autumn

By Carli Alves

Days are shorter, nights are cooler, and the autumn breeze is a welcome reprieve from some of those hot summer days. It’s no secret that the transition from summer to fall in New England is a magical time with lots to see and do – with the abundance of fall fests, pumpkin patches, apples ripe for the harvest, and vibrant foliage – so, why not bring a touch of that harvest-time goodness into your home to enjoy this season? Whether creating a warm welcome at the front door, incorporating cozy textures into your favorite gathering spot, or foraging to bring nature indoors, we’re sharing some tips to help get your home feeling festive.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Five steps to creating a welcoming entrance to enjoy all season long

The front door is the first thing guests see when they visit your home, so it’s important it gives a warm welcome. However, decorating your entrance seasonally can add up, so here are some tried-and-true tips to create an inviting spot on a shoestring.

LAYER

Layering doormats is a very trendy look that adds texture and interest to your front door. This works especially well when you choose a patterned low-pile rug (like a weather-resistant outdoor rug) underneath a more functional, but smaller coir doormat – those mats with brown fibers made from coconut husks. To create a look that fits the scale of your front door, the bottom doormat should measure slightly larger than the width of your door, while the top doormat should be about the size of your door.

FILL

As summer turns to fall, potted plants like ferns, coleus, and hydrangeas still have quite a bit of life left in them, so don’t throw them out! By utilizing these plants to transition your decor, you can save money and you won’t have to start from scratch. In general, having some good-sized planters to flank the door is a great start. Filling in gaps with one or two planters at staggering heights creates a balanced look for a centered doorway. If there’s only room for planters on one side of your door, one to three other planters in varying heights should do the job. Plants to consider incorporating into your pots: chrysanthemums, stonecrop, cone flowers, sweet potato vine, croton plants, ornamental cabbage/kale, and/or grasses that add texture and color.

WREATH ALTERNATIVES

There are so many ways to decorate a front door beyond a wreath. Consider a hanging basket filled with branches, dried hydrangeas, or fresh mums, replacing the water and foliage as needed. Try an autumn sign or flag, leafy swags, pine cones hanging from twine – the possibilities are endless.

ADD

When it comes to decorating with pumpkins outside, consider opting for real instead of faux, and support local farms while you’re at it. While faux pumpkins and florals are tempting, they can be difficult to store and often fade over time. If you’re looking to get the abundant look on your front steps, combining both orange pumpkins and one or two specialty heirloom pumpkins and gourds is a great way to get the look without breaking the bank. If you’re not a fan of orange, bust out the paint and get your creative juices flowing to customize pumpkins to your preferred palette. The addition of jack-o-lanterns will add some fun and a magical glow at night.

GLOW

Use lanterns, glass votives, or hurricanes in different sizes by your front door to add ambience. Battery-operated candles or twinkle lights with automatic timers are great for carefree convenience. Outdoor wall sconces can be updated with warm-toned, flickering, or vintage-styled bulbs to coincide with the season.

ADORN

Once that cool fall breeze hits the front door, who can resist pulling out the autumn wreaths? Wreaths are a great way to welcome guests to your home and add festive curb appeal. A classic grapevine wreath is a great option for fall; while striking left plain, it can also serve as an excellent base for adding DIY touches like sprigs, leaves, and pinecones. If doing it yourself is not your thing, there are many options available to add personality to your door.

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THE SEASON OF THE SWITCH

Transitioning to fall can be as simple as swapping textures, colors, and scents

Autumn inspiration can be found almost anywhere – even right inside your own home. It’s always a great idea to shop your house when looking to refresh for the season because you probably already have on hand a majority of what you need to create an awesome autumn vignette. Through cozy textures, warm colors, and spicy scents, you can decorate a home full of warmth and charm.

One of the easiest ways to add coziness when transitioning from summer to fall is to swap out your textiles. Set aside your linen, seersucker, and chambray, and bring out the throw pillows and blankets made from soft velvet, nubby boucle, warm flannels, or chunky wool. Incorporating these textures easily adds interest and warmth to the home, both physically and visually. Blankets can be stuffed into baskets, draped over the arms of chairs, layered over a ladder, or nestled in the

corner of a sofa or window seat, all resulting in an effortlessly comfortable and inviting look.

Create the ultimate autumn season by assembling vignettes with a variety of items. Surfaces like coffee tables, mantels, and shelves are perfect for stacks of faded antique books, rustic or hobnail glass vases stuffed with dried hydrangeas, and patinaed brass candlesticks. Fashion texture-rich displays by showcasing collections of baskets, wreaths, and wooden trays. Pot leafy plants in planters made of hammered copper or fluted iron urns to add in architectural elements that evoke the feel just outside the window.

When choosing autumnal hues to incorporate into your decor, what better place to draw inspiration from than the outdoors? In the fall, Mother Nature takes the opportunity to show off with her spectacle of colors, from muted earth tones – like burnt umber and

terracotta – to more vibrant colors like violet, yellow, and chartreuse. Autumn decor doesn’t need to be limited to just orange, red, and brown; instead, focus on the tints and tones from nature that speak most to you.

Can we even talk about fall without bringing up pumpkin spice? People either love it or hate it, but if it’s not your favorite scent, there are lots of others that can help imbue those fall feels. Candles, incense, and scent blends for diffusers with notes of vanilla, bergamot, ginger, and clove are all wonderful choices. Be on the lookout for candles with crackling wood wicks as they not only offer a cleaner burn, but also an experience reminiscent of sitting in front of a fire. Cinnamon-scented pinecones, potpourri, and simmering pots of water with ingredients like citrus peels, apple skins, whole cloves, and more fill spaces with the smells of the season.

by Carli Alves

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FORAGED DECOR

Get the natural living look by heading outside in search of decorative accents

Creating displays in your home using natural elements is a budget-friendly and easy way to decorate for the season: it’s as simple as taking a stroll in your yard! Think of it as a grown-up scavenger hunt. Branch clippings, pinecones, bittersweet vines, acorns, leaves, and even logs are perfect items to forage for fall decor, and the best part is you can let your creativity run wild.

Snip colorful foliage to create a sculptural statement centerpiece on a table. Bittersweet vines have a beautiful orange color, and look stunning in vases, wrapped around a wreath, or draped along a mantel. Place foraged (and debugged, see call-out) pinecones or fresh apples or pears in a bowl to create functional decor. Tuck acorns and pinecones here and there on shelves or display cases as a simple addition to your everyday decor. Press and frame leaves that have turned to create a unique and stunning gallery wall; the only limit is your imagination.

If you don’t want to venture into the wild, dried florals are a great option and have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. From pampas grass to baby’s breath, you can purchase beautiful dried items in a variety of textures and colors to fill vases and help you usher in the season. Clustering a mix of store-bought mini pumpkins and gourds is a great way to finish off the look.

PINE CONE PREP

To avoid living creatures and sticky situations in your displays, place freshly gathered pine cones on a foil-lined baking sheet in the oven at 200 degrees for an hour, checking often, to rid them of critters and harden sticky sap.

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• Aardvark Antiques

• Arnold Lumbery

• Bannon Tile

• Bob Frances Interiors

• Brassworks Fine Home Details

• Budget Blinds

• City & Estate Gardner

• Custom Contracting

• Crestar Framing

• East Coast Designs

• Elite Restoration

• Fabric Gallery

• Factory Carpet Outlet

• The Farmer’s Daughter

• Gil’s Appliances

• Graham Gallery

• GrandScapes

• Hawkins Hardwood Flooring

• Heritage Kitchen

• Hilltop Garden Center

• Inspired Closets

• KG Kitchen

• Kitchen Guys

• KMR Home Designs

• McCormick Home Improvement

• Michelle Lee Design

• Parma Doors

• Picture This Picture Framing

• Providence Picture Frame & Dryden Gallery

• Rhode Island Kitchen & Bath

• Rhode Island Mulch Express Blower Services

• Riverhead Building Supply

• Roofmasters

• Salks Ace Hardware

• TF Morra Tree Care

• Wickford Kitchen and Bath

Natural Instincts

Meet five makers who find inspiration and supplies from their surroundings

By Emily Homonoff

Across Rhode Island, creativity is blooming in unexpected places, and makers are weaving nature directly into their craft. From meditations kits shaped with foliage to papers and prints built from sea plants, these artisans aren’t just creating beautiful objects; they’re telling stories of sustainability and connection. By working with the raw materials of the land and sea, they invite us to see the beauty of the Ocean State in a new light.

MAY BABCOCK: PAPER

For papermaker and eco-artist May Babcock, creativity begins with what nature provides. She forages “abundant plant and seaweed fibers” and transforms them into pulp, embedding pressed plants and sediment and creating richly textured works of art. “Material engagement is foundational to my practice,” Babcock says, a belief that flows through her work like the waterways she honors. Each piece not only showcases her innovative papermaking techniques but evokes “the plants, waterways, stories, and materials of place,” inviting viewers to connect with the natural world on a more intimate level. Pawtucket, MayBabcock.com

MARY CHATOWSKY: SEAWEED

Mary Chatowsky channels the ocean’s hidden life into her art. Chatowsky’s Seaweed and Tide Pool series captures “a moment in time when these species coexisted in between the tides,” giving form to the delicate balance between beauty and fragility in our changing world. She explains that the ocean “contains a wealth of environments, the known and unknown, with creatures, shapes and forms both strange and beautiful,” a vivid image that is brought to life in Chatowsky’s prints. Through her work at Saltwater Studio Newport Art and Design, Chatowsky freezes those tidal snapshots, offering us a gentle invitation to appreciate unseen stories beneath the surface. Newport, SaltWaterStudioNewport.com

MEET THE MAKERS

Vendor markets are filled with artists selling goods that make the most of natural resources. Here are some events happening this month. Find more at FarmFreshRI.org

SATURDAYS

• Aquidneck Growers Market, Newport

• Casey Farm Market, Saunderstown

• Hope Street Farmers Market, Providence

• Mount Hope Farmers Market, Bristol

• Pawtuxet Village Farmers Market, Cranston

• South Kingstown Farmers Market, Kingston

SUNDAYS

• Foster Farmers Market, Foster

• Tiverton Farmers Market, Tiverton

HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Scituate Art Festival: Artists and vendors take over the picturesque village green and beyond at this annual event, now in its 59th year. If you’ve never been, prepare to do some walking, as you may need to park up to a mile away from the action. There is a central food court run by town-based nonprofit groups serving up everything from apple dumplings to meatball sandwiches and soft drinks; many are cash-only, so plan accordingly. Pro-tip: Start your art-buying adventure with coffee and a muffin from Cold Brook Cafe. Rain or shine. Learn more at ScituateArtFestival.org

Play On! an adult-only, 21+ event held at PCM after hours. Join us for a night of laughter and unadulterated fun to leave the stresses of adulthood behind.

Food Trucks | Cocktails & Beer | Games Cuddle Baby Animals | Tarot reading

HOME & STYLE

RYLEE GRANDE: FLOWERS

At GrandeDesigns, flowers aren’t just preserved, they’re transformed into heirlooms. Specializing in resin art, Rylee Grande captures blooms from life’s most meaningful occasions (weddings, births, memorials) and turns them into lasting works of art. “Each piece I create is a tribute to the fleeting beauty of nature,” Grande explains, “preserved in resin to be cherished for years to come.” Inspired daily by the natural world, her work honors memory as much as it celebrates form, showcasing “the elegance and emotion each flower holds.” The result is art that keeps nature’s beauty and life’s milestones alive long after the petals fade. Smithfield, GrandeDesigns.myshopify.com

SEMA GURERK: BOTANICALS

Jewelry artist Sema Gurerk draws inspiration from nature’s smallest details – a pinecone, a twig, a fleeting fragment of beauty. “Each piece of my jewelry begins with a quiet discovery in nature,” Gurerk says, describing how she transforms these unique finds using the ancient art of lost wax casting for her Botanica & Bazaar line. By preserving intricate textures in precious metal, Gurerk designs wearable sculptures that are as much story as adornment. “No two pieces are ever alike,” she notes, each necklace, ring, or earring becoming a reminder that “nature is the greatest artist, and I am simply its collaborator.” Under the brand name Floweredsky Designs, her work celebrates both traditional craft and the organic artistry of the natural world. Providence, Floweredsky.com. Find Gurek at Tiverton Farmers Market events

NICOLE MONTAGNO: EPHEMERA

For sustainable floral designer and artist Nicole Montagno, nature serves as both inspiration and medium. In her event florals, Montagno relies on native, seasonal blooms and “earth-friendly, non-toxic, and low-waste practices.” In her work, she assembles elements including an original watercolor painting, genuine healing crystals, a tealight intention candle, a selenite wand, and more into meditation kits that “celebrate ephemera and the beauty of nature in all of its phases.” She also paints animals and landscapes with small-batch watercolors made from plants and minerals. “I am forever a deep admirer of the Earth and all of her beings,” she says, and her work is a testament to that reverence. Available at Jordan’s Jungle, Pawtucket. HalcyonHeroine.com

Waxing Poetic

From mixing fragrance oils to designing a label, this workshop is lit

By Caitlyn Bailey

Whether I’m writing for this magazine, nestled up with a good book, or cleaning my house, the odds are good that a lit candle is flickering somewhere in the vicinity. The smell of fresh lemon as I vacuum my living room? Yes, please . A local lavender farm’s soy candle burning while I make dinner? Sounds like the perfect evening. With so many different options that pair with the changing seasons, it can be difficult to find that ideal scent. Luckily, Aster Hand Poured Soy Candles new candlemaking workshops are the chance to create your perfect home accent. From pouring the wax to decorating your own label, you’ll have full creative control over the scent of your dreams. The company was envisioned by Catherine Arruda, an accountant by day, in 2016. After leading workshops around the state at shops like NAVA in Providence and Nico Scout in South Kingstown, she moved into a studio space this year at Lorraine Mills in Pawtucket, where she holds monthly workshops. Her environmentally friendly candles are made with 100-percent domestic soy wax to keep them renewable, vegan, and clean-burning. With every candle poured, labeled, and packaged by hand, each product is made with great care and love. Now, she’s giving customers a way to put their own energy into a candle the same way she does. I recently attended an Aster workshop, excited to make a candle of my own. Arruda’s studio is filled with shelves of her handiwork and outfitted with two large wooden workbenches. Assorted cheeses and snacks were provided for all nine of us hopeful candlemakers. Between the whisks, thermometers, and measuring cups, everyone seemed eager to put them all to good use. The most interesting tool was the fragrance wheel, which resembles a color wheel, but instead categorizes groups of scents

to show compatibility. Thinking about combining magnolia, peony, and cucumber? Refer to the scent wheel to see if it’s a stroke of genius or an unsavory combination.

When candlemaking time rolled around, we donned our aprons while Arruda gave us a warm welcome. She explained each tool and let us know that we would be cutting our own wicks, pouring our own wax, and measuring our own scents. She was clear that she was there to guide us through the process but we had full creative freedom. Thus, our two-hour

UPCOMING EVENTS

OCTOBER 4: Candle Making Workshop Pumpkin Vessel

OCTOBER 10: Candle & Cocktail Making Workshop

OCTOBER 26: Candle Making Workshop with Autumn Flower Bar

OCTOBER 26: Candle Making Workshop with Autumn Flower Bar

NOVEMBER 2: Candle Making Workshop

NOVEMBER 22: Candle Making Workshop

process began with blending fragrance oils. I chose to combine sea salt and rose for a floral, beachy scent. Next, it was time to get a tinful of soy wax and continue to check the temperature until it cooled to a solid 185-degrees to combine it with the oil mixture. After whisking for two minutes, my scented concoction was poured into a recyclable glass container.

While the candle solidified, it was time to get creative, making a label. A crafter’s wonderland, there are labels and gel pens, rubber stamps with designs ranging from greenery to

shining suns, and ink pads to customize our finished product. Not trusting my own handwriting, “Salted Rose” was born out of a neatly stamped print.

My favorite part of the workshop was taking a moment to listen to everyone celebrate each other’s creations. Whether it was cinnamon and rose, or smoked oud and grapefruit mangosteen, each combination was a fragrance worth smelling. Whether you’re seeking a fun crafternoon or a little gift-making, Aster is worth melting for.

“It’s never too late,”

FEATURE

Aging Wisely

Planning for the future in the Ocean State starts now

By Ann Martini

“

You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old,” the comedian George Burns once said. If you know who Burns is, you might be heading toward what was once called “your golden years.” At a time when youth tend to dominate cultural conversations and “old-timers” like Burns aren’t familiar to younger audiences, Rhode Island is challenging the narrative about those golden years. A full quarter of Rhode Island’s population is over 60, and 18 percent are over 65, according to Age-Friendly Rhode Island, an initiative at Rhode Island College. Across the state, aging isn’t about retreat. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and redefining what those years can look like.

Making Plans

Narragansett’s Laurie O’Rourke and her late husband, Michael, began planning for retirement in their 20s. “One of the smartest decisions my husband and I made was investing in property,” she says. “Our approach was always to buy the worst house in the best location.” In time, those investments allowed Michael to pursue his dream of owning an Irish pub, and in 2006, O’Rourke’s Bar and Grill opened in the Pawtuxet Village section of Warwick. But in 2012, Michael,

in his 40s, passed away from lymphoma. Laurie, an RN at Kent County Hospital, had a decision to make about the pub. “I chose to leave nursing,” she explains. “I had no prior experience as a bartender or waitress, but I worked tirelessly,” she says. “I was incredibly proud of my husband’s accomplishments, and I wanted to honor his legacy. I was 50 years old when I embraced this new chapter.”

And now, after 14 years of running the pub, O’Rourke is newly retired. “I began seriously planning for retirement about two years ago, when I was 62 years old,”

CONTINUING & ADULT EDUCATION

A comprehensive list, including locations, descriptions of their offerings, and websites for more information.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF RHODE ISLAND (CCRI)

Offers GED prep, English Language Studies, workforce training, and degree or certificate programs. Evening, weekend, and online options available. Multiple campuses (Warwick, Lincoln, Providence, Newport, Westerly), CCRI.edu

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE (OLLI) AT URI

Membership-based program for adults aged 50+, offering courses, special interest groups, and travel programs. Kingston, Web.URI.edu/OLLI

PROVIDENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Adult enrichment provides free programs, including workshops, technology training, and workforce development opportunities. Providence, ProvLib.org

RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION (RIDE)

RIDE funds 19 adult education providers offering classes in basic literacy, GED prep, ESOL, job skills training, and citizenship prep. In-person, online, and hybrid options available. Various locations, EnrollRI.org/AdultEd

RHODE ISLAND OFFICE OF LIBRARY & INFORMATION SERVICES

Adult education partnerships offer literacy, ESOL, and citizenship classes through RIFLI, plus online learning tools. Providence Place Library and statewide libraries, OLIS.RI.gov

RHODE ISLAND REGIONAL ADULT LEARNING (RIRAL)

Nonprofit learning center offering GED, ABE, ESOL, college prep, career counseling, and industry certification testing. Woonsocket, RIRAL.org

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN (RISD) CONTINUING EDUCATION

Art and design courses for adults, including certificate programs and enrichment classes, in-person and online. Providence; Tillinghast Place in Barrington; Westerly Education Center, CE.RISD.edu

UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND CONTINUING EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Offers professional certificates, online courses, and graduate programs. Includes OLLI for adults 50+. Kingston, URI.edu/ academics/continuing-education

she says. “My decision was influenced by my age, the desire to spend more time with my grandchildren (she has three so far), and financial readiness.” O’Rourke says she realized it was time to step back and enjoy the life she had worked so hard to build. “That’s when I knew it was the right time to retire. I feel wonderful and very proud of myself. I’m also deeply proud of my children, who supported me unconditionally. I often find myself reflecting and thinking, “How on earth did I do this?”

Catching Up

What do you do, though, if you didn’t start early and plan well, like the O’Rourke’s did? “It’s never too late,” says Anthony Lemonde, owner of Senior’s Choice Rhode Island, who advises on issues such as planning well when it comes to insurance and Medicare. “We empower people with knowledge so they can make decisions that are cost-effective and responsible,” he says. For a time, Providence resident Eleanor Clift was afraid it was indeed too late. Clift was a state employee when in 2011, then-Governor Gina Raimondo overhauled the underfunded pension system. Though Raimondo’s efforts were largely lauded, it left Clift, then 53, and many state employees in a panic. “I thought I knew down to the dime what I’d make when I retired, and that changed,” Clift says. She met with a certified financial planner, who looked carefully at her budget, advising maximizing catch-up 401(k) and IRA contributions, building an emergency fund, eliminating debt, and focusing on retirement over other expenses. “I was able not only to catch up, but because of those efforts, I had managed to put away an extra $100,000,” she says. “It felt good.”

If you’ve hit your 50s and suddenly realized your retirement savings are barely getting started, or worse, still nonexistent, you’re not alone. But Rhode Island offers practical resources and financial strategies to help you catch up smartly and with dignity. For example, the recently launched Rhode Island Secure Choice Retirement Savings Program is a portable, Roth IRA-based plan allowing private-sector workers without retirement options to save through

payroll deductions. As General Treasurer James Diossa puts it, this initiative “will transform retirement in our state and help the 40 percent of Rhode Island private sector employees with little or no retirement savings prepare for a comfortable, dignified life after work.” Consider, too, the Rhode Island Aging and Disability Resource Center, which can connect you to home-based and financial support services, while senior centers and public libraries like Cranston’s offer free workshops, tax prep, and community connection.

Staying Active

Unfortunately, even the best planning and advice won’t enhance your life if you’re housebound. One of the easiest things you can do to ensure happier later years is to move your body. Let’s not even use the often-intimidating label “exercising.” “The ability to increase circulation in legs and arms with a recumbent bike, treadmills, swimming, pool classes, vibration plates, and stretching is an overall health

benefit,” says Dr. Sherry Morrissette, a chiropractic neurologist at the Chiropractic Neurology Center of West Greenwich. But it doesn’t even have to be that involved. “Suggestions for the over-60 population to maintain mobility as they age would be to walk briskly each day and drink plenty of water while decreasing caffeine consumption,” Morrissette says.

As we age, the inevitability of declining health becomes real, and issues with eyesight, hearing, and balance might be the early birds to

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If you’ve experienced frustration with the traditional model of doctor visits, you might want to know about concierge care . It’s a new model that gives you, for a surprisingly affordable monthly fee, direct access to a doctor or nurse practitioner, minus the long wait times and insurance hassles. Witnessing patient frustration in healthcare first-hand, Sarah McGinley, an advanced practice registered nurse, decided to open Weatherly Direct Primary Care in Wakefield. “After 12 years in healthcare, I saw the flaws in the current insurance-based practice model and wanted to be a part of something that offers better access and care for my patients without all the middlemen,” McGinley says. It might just be the cure we all need.

the party. Places that are most familiar to you in your home could become gauntlets. According to David Austin, president of Lift and Care Systems in Lakeville, Massachusetts, “The most dangerous and difficult areas for people as we age in place are bathrooms and staircases. Having appropriately placed hand railings, grab bars, and stairlifts will greatly assist with staying healthy and mobile,” he says.

Justin Oakley, co-owner of Oakley Home Services, agrees. “Learning about these options gives individuals over 60 a nice blueprint of what they can do to their home to help maximize their mobility,” he says. “It can help them safely and comfortably age in place in the home they know and love.”

Asking Questions

Should you find yourself in the doctor’s office, though, experts agree the best approach to advocating for yourself is twofold. “Make a list of all your health questions and write down the answers,” says Morrissette. “Also, bring someone to your appointment who can help you understand and support you through your health journey.” And when you’re asking questions, remember, says Oakley, that doctors aren’t just diagnosticians. Ideally, they serve as resources to the larger healthcare community. “In our industry, it is all about resources. We encourage individuals to ask their physicians about resources that are available in the community, including access to specific equipment, services, or funding,” he explains.

When it comes to resources for health insurance, check out organizations such as AARP or HealthSource Rhode Island. “Having spent my career in healthcare and witnessing my husband’s lymphoma diagnosis at just 42, one lesson became undeniably clear: your health is everything,” says O’Rourke. “Because of that experience, having a strong health plan was always one of my top priorities – you don’t realize how essential it is until you truly need it.”

Lifelong Learning

If you’re intent on maximizing your health and wellness, continuing to learn new skills as you age will make an enormous difference, according to AARP. Learning reignites the brain –55 percent of Americans aged 45-plus are actively learning for personal growth, and motivations include cognitive sharpness and self-improvement. By 2030, one in five Americans will be 65 or older, according to the organization, creating accessible opportunities for continuous and later-learning can help extend workforce participation, boost economic mobility, and extend social engagement.

Locally, both the University of Rhode Island and Brown offer “lifelong learning” programs. At URI, for example, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) established in 2009,

The Rhode Island Department of Health offers resources to help you and your loved ones identify assisted living facilities. Health.RI.gov/Find/AssistedLiving

boasts 1,500 members aged 50 and up. OLLI offers 250+ non-credit courses taught by professors or experts, ranging from history to expressive arts. As Executive Director Beth Leconte says, the institute fosters “opportunities to continue learning, satisfy their curiosities, make new acquaintances and express their creativity in a true community setting.”

Making Decisions

As John Lennon once said, “life is what happens while you’re making other plans.” So, as well prepared for retirement as you may feel, illness or other circumstances might derail your, or your parents’, plans for sailing into the sunset. When Erin Kaufman of Warwick and her siblings had to face their parents’ simultaneous dementia diagnoses, it was an all-hands-on-deck situation. Homes had to be cleaned out and sold, powers of attorney signed, finances wrangled, and assisted living and nursing homes assessed. “It was one of the hardest things we’ve ever had to do,” says Kaufman. Stefany Reed is a certified dementia practitioner at Briarcliffe Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Johnston. “None of us, or very

few of us, ever come to terms with the fact that we won’t be exactly as we are now. And then we have a health scare or a fall, which necessitates care. And that includes our aging parents,” she says.

For Kaufman’s parents, the decline initially happened gradually, but escalated quickly. “The tell-tale signs are many small things that alone don’t cause concern, but can add up,” says Reed, “confusion, financial mismanagement, falls, hygiene issues, spoiled food, not eating right, depression, and anxiety, to name a few.”

Finding the best place for parents who can no longer thrive on their own requires an often-lengthy research process. “Sometimes we don’t have the time for much research or preparation because something happens suddenly and we find ourselves in crisis mode,” Reed says. Her advice? “Avoid online search companies,” she says. “They turn your information over to people who pay them for referrals and you will be inundated by sales calls. If you must use a placement agency, look for a local individual like a geriatric care manager or care concierge,” she suggests. Or, she says, go to medicare.gov to find highly-rated skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers in your area. “Then, take time to visit, schedule an in-person

tour, and get to know the people who will assist you when the time comes to make a move. By all means, Reed says, put aside feelings of guilt. “Elderly people need socialization. People say they do not want to be a burden to their families. You may be saying to yourself now, ‘my mom would never be a burden but in her mind, you not living your best life to care for her becomes a heavy emotional burden she will carry. Home is not always the best place –whether it’s their home or yours.

Looking Forward

With a little planning and some good luck, today’s aging population can look forward to many more years of health, wealth, and happiness. Staying active and continuing to strengthen social bonds will pay off in the long run. “At O’Rourke’s, our sign reads ‘ It’s a Wonderful Life! ’ — my husband’s favorite movie,” O’Rourke says. “But more importantly, it’s how we truly lived our lives. For us, it has always been about health, family, and friends,” she says. “It’s because of that love and support that I was able to accomplish everything I did. Sláinte !”

FOOD & DRINK

In the Kitchen | Experience | Round Up | Fall Sips

The World Is His Oyster

Bolstered by community, Perry Raso is filled with gratitude and grit

By Ann Martini

The first fear that coursed through Perry Raso’s mind at 4am on May 20 as he witnessed his Wakefield restaurant Matunuck Oyster Bar burn to the ground, wasn’t about the enormous financial loss he was about to incur, just days away from an always-engrossing summer season. It wasn’t about his recent renovations to the 16 year-old building and how he’d finally gotten everything exactly how he wanted it. It wasn’t about the uncertainty he was about to face: the insurance, the rebuild, the oyster beds. It was about the firefighters.

“I was watching them climb around outside on the roof of the kitchen, trying to extinguish the flames,” Raso, whose grandfather was a firefighter for the FDNY, recalls. “If anything happened to them when they’re trying to save my business, I wouldn’t be able to live with myself.” It was the moment Raso knew he had a disaster on his hands. “I always worried about what would destroy my business, and I always thought it would be a flood,” he says, gesturing towards Potter Pond, feet off the patio of the old restaurant. “Never fire.”

Fast-forward to a late-summer Wednesday: the lot where the restaurant stood is completely cleared, save for the metal frame of the outside bar, and is ready for the rebuilding process. Across the street, Matunuck Oyster Bar bustles inside an expansive Sperry tent in an ancillary parking lot. The skies are overcast and there’s

a tiny chill to the air, which is heavy with the clean, fresh smell of salty ocean water, reminiscent of the taste of Raso’s oysters. It’s a little before the 11am opening and the staff, most of whom look college-age, swarm the bars and the many tables, stacking menus, setting out vases of fresh wildflowers, placing just-shucked oysters atop beds of crushed ice, slicing dozens of fresh lemons and limes for drinks. Five minutes after opening, the tables are half full.

This temporary location was made possible by an outpouring of support from the community after the fire. In June, Governor Dan McKee signed into law the “Take it Outside” bill, allowing restaurants like Raso’s and Finn’s Harborside in East Greenwich to set up temporary outdoor locations while they rebuild. The bill was just one example of local support that

poured in after the fire – a GoFundMe started by friends on the morning of the fire has raised over $260,000 for employee assistance, and the donations continue to come in. Raso is beyond grateful. “I lost my life’s work in this fire, but it really drives home the importance of community,” he says, pausing with emotion.

“I spent some time in denial about what happened,” he says. Raso was hesitant to open the tented pop-up, but he says it’s going better than expected. Except for the plastic tent sides, you wouldn’t know you weren’t in the original space. One of the bartenders, a URI student who has worked here for six years, says it came together fast. “There are a few rough edges,” he says. “But I’m just happy to have my job back.” One of the most important benefits to the tent, Raso says, is that any one of the hundreds of original

employees who wanted could come back to work. “Some found other jobs, but half came back. That was important to me.”

When the original oyster bar was destroyed in the fire last May, it was one of the most profitable, popular, and praised restaurants around. Raso operated fun and educational tours of the oyster farm. Dining reservations were painfully hard to come by, especially in the summer months. National and local publications, too numerous to list, consistently applauded Raso. “It’s because he’s got it down to a science, a formula,” says Peter Lovegreen, a Warwick resident with 45 years of experience operating and working at high-end, waterside restaurants in Rhode Island. Lovegreen says he and his wife, Joanne, have eaten there at least a hundred times over the years. “And you always know exactly what you’re going to get,” he says. “Exceptional service, the best quality food, happy employees, and high standards.”

The funny thing is, Raso never intended to open a restaurant. He just wanted to grow oysters. He practically grew up in these waters, digging for clams, trapping eels, diving for littlenecks. He studied aquaculture and fisheries technology at the University of Rhode Island and founded Matunuck Oyster Farm in 2002 on Succotash Road. In a few years, he was selling oysters across the country. A dilapidated clam shack with a dock stood yards away, and to ensure the Potter Pond farm would continue to thrive, he purchased it and opened Matunuck Oyster Bar in 2009. “Hey, it was a way to sell fresh oysters,” he says with a smile and a shrug.

If Raso has his way, the Lovegreens will be able to return to a new Matunuck Oyster Bar in May 2026. “I’d like it to open on May 20, the one-year anniversary of the fire,” Raso says. The new building will be on the same footprint as the old, with some updates, including better views (the result of having to build on slightly higher ground) and taller ceilings. In the meantime, Raso hopes to open a new concept in Wakefield later this year, in the space that used to house the Feet First shoe store on Old Tower Hill Road. While it doesn’t have a name yet, he describes it as a seafood-heavy version of the popular Italian market Eataly. Raso and his team will be hand-making things like seafood-stuffed ravioli, a concept fueled by a trip to Singapore, where he was inspired by dumplings filled with an infinite variety of foods.

If his past success is any indication, his new venture will be wildly successful, and Raso will undoubtedly continue to feel as much love and support from the community as he gives back to it. Dale Venturini, the recently retired president and CEO of the Rhode Island Hospitality Association, sums it up this way: “Perry is a shining example of how business excellence and community leadership go hand in hand. Through vision, hard work, and humility, Perry has built an iconic

restaurant that not only sets the standard for hospitality, but also drives economic vitality, creates jobs, and inspires others in the industry. His leadership isn’t about accolades – it’s about creating opportunity, giving back, and leading with his heart.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: At press time the continuation of the tented restaurant is weather-dependent. Please check RhodyOysters.com for updates.

Golden Hour

The state’s oldest vineyard sparkles at 50 with inspired bites at their tasting room

By Elyse Major

Thanks to my editorial role here at the magazine, I’ve become somewhat of a walking, talking Rhode Island travel guide/encyclopedia. So when planning an itinerary for my sister’s recent visit from New Jersey, I set the bar high, aiming to introduce her to parts of the Ocean State she may not have yet experienced. I decided we would kick-off our tour de force with lunch at Sakonnet Vineyard in Little Compton, knowing full well that my sister doesn’t drink much. But the breathtaking location paired with modifications implemented by married winemakers James Davids and Marissa Stashenko – who took over management duties last year – have resulted in the state’s oldest vineyard revitalized with new offerings, varietals, and events, as it approaches its golden anniversary this month.

Must-Try Items

FARMHOUSE CLAM CHOWDER

($10): This chunky farm-coast twist on the traditional soup is sure to please traditionalists.

WHITE MACADAMIA NUT

COOKIE ($4): A chewy-sweet ending to any bite.

SAUVIGNON BLANC ($11

GLASS/$30 BOTTLE): Grapefruit and fresh herbs inform this refreshing wine.

Cuisine: Artisanal farm-to-table

Atmosphere: Casual contemporary taproom in a pastoral setting

Cheers to 50 years

What’s new at Sakonnet Vineyard is actually what’s old, at the property which spans 169 acres. Still owned by jewelry designer and entrepreneur Carolyn Rafaelian, the name has returned simply to Sakonnet Vineyard, and Davids has reintroduced time-honored farming practices over technology – both storied and sustainable – aimed at making wines without additives, with flavors that connect to the land, or terroir, and give each pour a distinctive sense of place. During a vineyard tour with Davids, Stashenko, and my sister, this is explained, which I liken to tasting honey and being able to detect whether it’s collected from clover or wildflowers, or even digging further, its location.

Our reservation is for noon and I pad our drive with extra time to enjoy the pastoral beauty of Route 77, heading south. We pass Tiverton Four Corners and multiple farm stands, and my sister always marvels at the stone walls. Before long, a cornflower-blue sign and American flag signal our turn on Sakonnet Vineyards Road, and we slowly motor along the curved trail, spotting one of Rafaelian’s collected animal statues, before parking. The natural beauty all around is wonderfully distracting as we walk to the main building – the cloudy pale sky serving as a foil to the verdant grass and clusters of bright wildflowers.

Once inside the cavernous main area where wine and merchandise are for sale, I spy a pile of flopsy golden cookies slumped beneath the glass of a dessert stand and make a mental note. Our server leads us to a table in the tasting room beneath posters of the vineyard, past the central bar helmed by the mustachioed Matt Gant. The kitchen is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to “about” 7pm, and for a Thursday lunch, it’s not empty. Looking over the menu of boards, bites, salads, sweets, and plates, my eyes land on the farmhouse clam chowder. Aromatic, creamy, and chunky, I declare on the spot that it’s a new favorite. It arrived with slices of crusty bread, perfect for sopping up every last drop. My “plate” is the lobster salad roll, a seasonal offering so plentiful with lightly dressed meat over buttery lettuce, I decided to fork it, digging into it like a lazyman’s lobster. My sister opts for the San Marzano flatbread – a beautiful oblong canvas of red sauce and mozzarella, topped with whipped ricotta and drizzled with green basil oil – which she enjoys. Knowing this article would appear in October, Chef John Crosby sends some menu mainstays our way. We share the grilled chicken sandwich – six ounces of breast meat marinated

Two-Day Harvest Festival to Celebrate Golden Anniversary

OCTOBER 11 & 12: A weekend of fun is planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sakonnet Vineyard. Saturday’s agenda includes live music, a walking tour of the vineyard and scavenger hunt, old-fashioned outdoor field day fun, a pumpkin patch, wine tastings, and food vendors. Sunday features a Harvest Market in collaboration with Tiverton Farmers Market with 60–70 local vendors, makers, and growers. Educational sessions and demos led by regional experts in regenerative farming, beekeeping, and winemaking. Learn more at SakonnetWine.com/events

in white wine, with confit garlic aioli adding a flavorful twist, plus lettuce, tomato, and red onion, on a baguette. We also nibble on pulled pork tacos; unbeknownst to me, these are my sister’s favorite, and she is impressed. Pickled red onions and wide cilantro leaves lend bright zest. And yes, we each enjoyed a scrumptious white macadamia nut cookie for dessert (something I would’ve skipped had there been oatmeal raisin, but am glad how the cookie crumbled).

And of course, we drink wine. I had to order a glass of Eye of the Storm rosé; it was what we served at my wedding after tasting it on a visit to the vineyard with my then-fiance many moons ago. I’m always drawn to floral aromatics, especially when cherry and rhubarb are in the mix. My favorite sip of the day is the sauvignon blanc, refreshing and tasty with subtle flavors of grapefruit and lemongrass followed by a “salty minerality,” served in a commemorative anniversary

glass. Flights of three and five wines are available, along with soft drinks like Del’s Lemonade, Yacht Club Soda, and Granny Squibb Iced Tea for teetotalers. A beautiful way to spend an afternoon replete with coastal breezes and uniquely Ocean State flavors.

Sakonnet Vineyard

162 West Main Road, Little Compton SakonnetWine.com

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Savoring Rhody

Eight places to relish the fleeting flavors of fall

By Patty J

Folks are reaching for long sleeves and are in search of foliage and pumpkin spice. Yes, comfort food season is upon us. Cue the Gilmore Girls incidental music, and then check out these eight phenomenal cafes and restaurants to frequent this month for autumnal eats.

Apothica Cafe

This cozy fixture on Dexter Street is the vision of owners Eddy Sandoval and Christian Torres. Their apothecary-inspired vegan coffeehouse is a sensational stop for fall sips and snacks. You won’t want to miss this season’s salted caramel pumpkin spice latte, which is served hot or cold. Get yours with an apple cider doughnut, made fresh in-house, and you’ll be golden. Cumberland

Gregg’s

Thanksgiving comes early this year with the sandwich of the same name from this classic Rhode Island restaurant, whose first location opened in Warwick back in 1972. Served on multi-grain bread with slaw and fries, their version is made with layers of warm roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. Yes, it is as tasty as it sounds! East Providence, North Kingstown, Providence, Warwick

The Hard-Pressed Cider Company

Open Labor Day through November 23 at Windmist Farm (then popping up at The Farmer’s Daughter in South Kingstown November 28-December 23), this couple-owned biz sources all their apples from nearby farms. Menu options at the trailer include hot mulled cider, a cider slushie, and cake-style cider donuts. Grab your order and go, or stick around and enjoy the views of the Newport Pell Bridge. Jamestown

Matunuck Oyster Bar

After a devastating fire destroyed this much-revered restaurant founded by Perry Raso back in 2009, a temporary tent eatery has been set-up and is bustling while they work on rebuilding. So no need to worry about missing out on their fall menu, including their celebrated butternut lobster bisque. People wait all year for this five star, creamy soup with bits of squash and pieces of lobster. Matunuck

PVD Pies

Founded by Gina Rose Herlihy back in 2020, follow your nose to this adorable shop tucked into one of the buildings at Hope Artiste Village. Herlihy bakes mini, fullsize, and hand pies from scratch and in small batches. This time of year especially you’ll want to scoop up one of the luscious apple confections while they last. Their handheld turnovers are also scrumptious. Pawtucket

Scratch Kitchen & Catering

This cafe and catering company from the sister-and-brother team of Stef and Kyle Bennett on Broadway, is open six days a week for casual breakfast and lunch fare. If you live for an exceptional grilled cheese, you’ll want to motor on over for both classic and gourmet versions. The Thanksgiving sammie, with melted triple crème brie, is sure to leave you happy and full. Newport

Twin Oaks

Known for reasonable prices and generous portions of classic American and Italian dishes, this third- and fourth-generation family-run, legendary restaurant in Cranston also happens to have some of the yummiest mashed potatoes in the state… buttery smooth and decadent! Whether you enjoy them along with their chicken parm, baked stuffed shrimp, or grilled salmon, is up to you. Cranston

Venda Ravioli

Launched in 1972 by Alan Constantino and now run by the family, this Italian market and café on Atwells Avenue has 150 varieties of fresh and frozen pasta. Once the leaves start to change, however, I am all about their delectable pumpkin ravioli. Grab a few boxes to cook up at home, along with a loaf of their fresh Italian bread and some cookies imported from Italy. Providence

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Sip Into Fall

From pumpkin ales to espresso martinis, the lineup has something for every mood

By Jenna Kaplan

There’s something about the crisp days of fall that makes you want to grab a flannel, crunch a leaf or two, and pour yourself a drink that tastes like the season. Lucky for us, regional makers infuse spice, malt, and a little bit of cozy in every sip. Here’s what to look for this season.

APPONAUG

BREWING COMPANY

Oktoberfest: This atmospheric taproom along the Pawtuxet River in Warwick is the perfect place for leaf-peeping while enjoying this smooth creamy malt named for the German folk festival. Warwick, ApponaugBrewing.com

GREY

SAIL BREWING

Autumn Winds: Grey Sail’s take on Oktoberfest brings malty, toasty notes with a smooth, balanced sweetness. It’s the kind of beer that belongs next to a pretzel bigger than your head.

Headless Oarsman Pumpkin Ale: This Sleepy Hollow-inspired ale is brewed with real pumpkin puree, plus cinnamon and clove for a flavor that’s just spooky enough. It’s malty, rich, and basically autumn in a can. Westerly, GreySailBrewing.com

THE

LANGWORTHY INN AND WINERY

Langworthy Sangiovese: Dark chocolate, smoky herbs, and bell peppers add up to a flavorful red wine that pairs just-right with the return of hearty fall foods. Westerly, LangworthyInn.com

Tasty Trek

Discover your next autumnal sip with our Rhody Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail on page 23

REJECTS BEER CO.

Czech Dark Lager: Dark and malty, with notes of everything from black pepper to coffee and burnt toast, this ale is practically begging for a flannel-clad group selfie on the Rejects patio. Middletown, RejectsBeerCo.com

RHODE ISLAND SPIRITS

Coffee and Black Walnut Vodka: Cold brew decaf from Downeast Coffee Roasters, extract from hand-harvested walnuts, and pinches of cardamom and cane sugar promise smooth sipping. Pawtucket, RhodeIslandSpirits.com

SOUTH COUNTY DISTILLERS

Bourbon: South County’s small-batch bourbon is aged in charred American oak barrels and delivers a classic, full-bodied sip. Neat, on the rocks, or stirred into your favorite cocktail – it’s a winner either way.

Espresso Martini: Made in collaboration with Dave’s Coffee, this canned cocktail mixes cold-brewed espresso with vodka for a bold, smooth pick-me-up. Ideal for nights when you need a second wind.

Whiskey Highball: Rye whiskey meets ginger, cranberry, and orange in this fizzy cocktail. It’s crisp, a little spicy, and dangerously easy to drink straight from the can. Westerly, SouthCountyDistillers.com

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