Providence Monthly April 2026

News & Culture

11 ARTS: Discussing the state of poetry in Rhode Island

14 OP-ED: Fain and Triedman share their views on city issues

16 NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Hyper local news and contact listings

20 RHODY GEM: Vinyl for new collectors and diggers at Fox Point record store

22 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Domestic violence awareness in the wake of Pawtucket shooting

24 ARTS: Podcast documentary features PVD-area creatives

28 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s

Home & Style

43 HOME: Color and pattern bring fresh energy to an East Side home

52 GARDEN: Tips for getting started from the ground up

56 RHODY READS: A fresh crop of book releases

58 SHOP: Rhody-made furnishings for the design-obsessed

Feature

61 State marketing campaign connects consumers to RI seafood

Food & Drink

73 IN THE KITCHEN: Pizza from a proud grandson on Doyle Avenue

78 EXPERIENCE: Rising star rotisserie in the Valley neighborhood

82 ROUND UP: Buzzworthy treats worth lining up for

86 RECIPE: Make this leveledup app at home

Cottage Inspo Abounds

There’s no place like (a Rhode Island) home

As the spring market begins, motivated buyers are returning and the right strategy matters more than ever.

The Sweeney Advisory pairs trusted local expertise with Sotheby’s International Realty’s global reach to position homes with precision and deliver exceptional results. Connect with Providence’s leading advisory to discuss a tailored spring buying or selling strategy.

Barry Fain

Richard Fleischer

John Howell

EDITOR IN CHIEF Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com

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ACCOUNT MANAGERS

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Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Foxling Photography

David Lawlor

Erin McGinn

Read McKendree

Andy Moran Photography

Josh Wheeler

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Luis Hernandez

Britt Machado

Jonah Major

Erin McGinn

Andrea McHugh

Kou Tukala Nyan

Molly Moran-Ogren

Deborah Goodrich Royce

Steve Triedman

Jordyn Zacharias

Interested in writing? Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com

INTERNS

Janibell Martinez Paige Martins

Interested in an internship? Email Ken@HeyRhody.com

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CONTRIBUTORS

ERIN MCGINN

Multifaceted photographer Erin McGinn focuses on storytelling for hospitality brands, makers, and couples. With an essence of sun-kissed Southern California and roots in Warwick, her lifelong love of travel inspires her experiential photos. In “Profound Pizza” (page 73) through words and images, she details a Providence chef’s mission, rooted in lessons from his grandmother.

ANDREA E. MCHUGH

Andrea McHugh is a Newport-based writer with nearly two decades of experience and an accomplished portfolio. This month, she writes about the highly anticipated book, Summer by the Sea , by local architect Thomas Kligerman (page 31). The article explores how Kligerman’s childhood summers in Weekapaug inspired the book, which features 16 diverse Rhode Island coastal homes.

ANDREW MORAN

Andrew Moran is a digital media producer and photojournalist, whose diverse body of work spans lifestyle, editorial, food, and product photography. In this month’s feature “Ocean State to Table,” his images help tell the story of the DEM’s efforts to promote the awareness and consumption of locally caught and landed seafood in Rhode Island.

KOU TUKALA NYAN

Kou Tukala Nyan is an author, journalist, artist, editor, and performer, co-founder of black earth collective + lab, and a Rhode Island notary! A recipient of the RISCA Make Art Grant, she is intrigued by the odd and supernatural. For National Poetry Month, on page 11 she has assembled a roundtable of five poets to discuss their writing community.

New Season, New Possibilities

It took a little longer than usual to get here, but the Providence spring market is finally in full bloom. While inventory is currently tighter than last year, the pace of activity has picked up significantly. In a market like this, clarity is your greatest asset. I focus on the details and the data, so you can focus on getting settled into your next chapter.

PROVIDENCE MARKET UPDATE - FEBRUARY 2026:

65

SOLD LISTINGS $503K

A College Hill landmark. Now for sale.

161 Benefit Street + 54 Meeting Street, East Side of Providence

Offered at $6,850,000 | 12-Unit Mixed-Use Investment Opportunity | 11,650 Sq Ft

Own a piece of Providence’s most iconic street. 161 Benefit Street features 9 fully remodeled apartments and a flagship commercial space anchored by a neighborhood favorite since 2013. This is a rare chance to grab a cash-flowing landmark and a buildable lot at 54 Meeting Street in the same transaction.

A turn-key historic asset with immediate development upside. For the full offering memorandum or to schedule a walkthrough, contact Derek by phone or email.

Simpson

NEWS & CULTURE

Arts | Op-Ed | Neighborhood News | Rhody Gem | Ocean State Media | Premiere |

Poets Roundtable

Five

voices discuss the current poetry scene

By Kou Tukala Nyan

Over the past few years, the poetry scene in Rhode Island has seen significant growth. From open mics to workshops and print publications, people are creating art through words. For April’s National Poetry Month, meet five dynamic poets and hear some thoughts about the local scene and their hopes for its future.

The Poets

Salena J. Deane is a creative strategist, “nonprofiteer,” and pole dancer. She founded The Poetry Pour, connecting poets in the region to events, open mics, and the broader community through regular newsletters and the Polish Your Poems workshop. To Deane poetry is “the permission I give myself to be authoritative in my experience and deeply vulnerable in my humanity.”

Vladimir “Vlad” Jean is an artist, army vet, founder of Afroverse, a platform for amplifying marginalized artists through monthly open mics, interviews, and collaborations, and host of Hide-and-Speak , where “poetry meets intimate interviews” at Hide Speakeasy. Poetry to Jean is a “multi-hyphenated multi-sectional pillar of culture and community. It’s spoken soul more than spoken word.”

Reese Landry is the author of the poetry collection, Hope, Love & The Lack Thereof . Through poetry, she overcame hardships and connected with the community both on and off. Poetry helps Landry “identify my emotions to myself, create something beautiful from them, and share them with others in a way that makes the pain worth feeling.”

Sandra Beth Levy is the author of Unfurling The Scroll of Seven Decades , a poetic memoir. Levy, a retired doctor of clinical psychology, has published in over 20 publications, been nominated for local awards, and frequents open mics with her husband, Bob. Poetry to Levy is “healing, connection, reflection, community, growth, self-expression, beauty, breath, truth-telling, spirituality, resistance.”

Monica D. Vance is an artist and licensed therapist blending mental health advocacy, poetry, and encouragement in her spoken word, workshops, and Monday Motivations to help creatives overcome limiting mindsets. Vance says, “Poetry is beautiful in that it can unearth emotions that we thought we had hidden.”

The

Discussion

What trends have you noticed in the local poetry scene?

Deane: A trend toward “person-first” narratives, especially with social media and trending topics that used to be considered taboo (like mental health, burnout, and sex). I also notice a rise in DIY infrastructure, probably because traditional publishing can be slow and exclusionary, especially for BIPOC folk.

Vance: Poetry has a way of drawing the most eclectic groups of people. Poets are usually talking about personal stories or using their poetry to comment on the US political climate and the world. There are poets who love to talk about love. Poets seem to be in two or three different poetry camps. Sometimes, the camps merge.

Jean: Trending topics I usually hear in poetry are the good or the bad sides of love, struggles, trauma, and joy – these are the heavy hitters because they are cornerstones of human life.

Levy: Gatherings feel like community efforts to fight fear, prevent one another from going down a hole of despondency, a call to action, and reminders to allow joy and celebration.

What do you think the future looks like for the local poetry community?

Deane: A shift toward sustainability. Writers are done with the “starving artist” trope. We’re going to see more cross-sector collaboration where poetry is integrated into broader community development and economic initiatives.

Jean: A larger outreach to youth will be necessary for all the different brands. Writers and readers will become speakers. Poetry will cement a much larger overall space in arts/entertainment for Providence, similar to the budding comedy scene.

Levy: We’ll need to fight against the intrusion of AI into the art world. We’ll need to find creative ways to support our writing and the arts as grants are drying up and free speech is being squashed by our government. I see rough roads ahead, but poets are spirited.

Landry: The poetry community will continue to grow. In a time when it’s difficult to foster true connection, poetry offers writers and readers a way to connect over emotional experiences common to us all, encouraging empathy and understanding of one another.

VENUES TO

Afroverse: Providence AfroversePVD.com

The Collaborative: Warren TheCollaborative02885.org, monthly

LitArts RI x RiffRaff: Providence LitArtsRI.org, monthly, 1st Friday

ProvSlam x AS220: Providence ProvSlam.org, bimonthly

Rooted PVD: Providence Instagram: RootedPVD, monthly

Softly Spoken: Cranston ThePoetryLoft.org

Strange Bird at Myrtle Variety Show: East Providence GiveMyrtle.com, monthly

Symposium Books x Public Shop & Gallery: Providence PublicPVD.com, monthly

The Sweet Little Variety Show x The Parlor: Providence SweetLittleVarietyShow.com, monthly

Words on Fire x William Hall Free Library: Cranston CranstonLibrary.org, monthly, 1st Wednesday

DEDICATION

Poet Ashley Wonder

Op Ed: Before The Onion

East Side Monthly’s April Fools punked Providence through the decades

By Barry Fain and Steve Triedman

Before The Onion . Before The Borowitz Report . Before The Babylon Be e. Before The Daily Show . Before The Simpsons . Before South Park … there was the East Side Monthly April Fool’s Issue.

While most people celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah in December, for over a decade, our favorite holiday was April Fool’s Day. It was satire at its best, replete with exaggeration, irony, and humor, but close enough to the truth to consistently fool a lot of people. While we focused on Providence, politicians from all around the state would regularly pitch us stories for the April Fool’s issue. And the best part was that people loved it – even getting surprised when they knew it was coming.

When our April issue featured a photo of John F. Kennedy, Jr. announcing that he was going to be named the next president of Brown, the story went international, much to the chagrin of the Brown communications office, who were inundated with calls, including one from The London Times asking for confirmation of the story. Exasperated, the spokesman sarcastically responded, “Do you think that we would announce this in a local newspaper?” The British reporter, not missing a beat, responded, “So you are confirming the story?”

Several years earlier, Brown President Vartan Gregorian was thrilled when we asked him to pose for a photo for our cover, “breaking” the news that Brown and Johnson & Wales were going to merge. Gregorian was featured wearing a chef’s hat and kept telling people about the quote that we gave him, explaining the merger. “They cook, we eat,” followed by his wonderful laugh.

Mayor “Buddy” Cianci was a frequent April

Fools target, and with his sharp mind and outof-the-box thinking, it added another dimension to each story. One year, we announced that Cianci was fed up with all of the non-taxpayers (AKA voters) who weren’t financially supporting the city, so he was putting in toll booths at every street and highway leading into the city. The toll was only 25 cents, but the revenue was huge.

Another year, we had Cianci selling the North Burial Ground, with its large voting constituency, to a company planning a winery after “discovering” the soil’s unique attributes for wine grapes. It came just after Cianci had introduced his Mayor’s Marinara Sauce. So, the vineyard was planning on introducing line extensions: Mayor’s Own Muscatel (MOM) and the Mayor’s Own Burgundy (MOB). The stewards of Swan Point cemetery, however, were not amused when it was suggested that the existing bodies might be exhumed and moved there to reduce expenses.

There were no sacred cows, and everything was ‘fair game!’ We had the state selling ‘luxury suites’ at the General Assembly so citizens could receive some benefit, as lobbyists were spending so much on the legislature. We had “Barrington Seeks Controlling Interest in East Side.” Their offer was set at $44,000 per resident in cash, stock and school aid… a win, win, win for Providence.

There was the City Dog Tax to raise additional city money. It was a ruff one. The major stumbling block was not whether to do it, but

rather how to determine the actual tax. Type of dog? Annoyance of bark? Size of poop? The Narragansett Indians’ bid to reclaim Providence and build a casino got a lot of play as the revenue would have made the city flush.

We had Michael Dukakis choosing Cianci as his vice presidential candidate. We had Hillary Clinton, looking to run for the US Senate, needing a “place to call home.” RI had a lot to offer – small population, good food, and if it had Taylor Swift back then, it would have been a lock! When there was talk of dredging the Providence River, we moved WaterFire to Blackstone Boulevard with “LandFire.”

There was the Providence Preservation Society’s “Implementing a New Historic Demolition Plan.” When there was the massive fight over the plan to put the Newbay power plant across the Seekonk River, we changed the dynamic, announcing that they had switched and the plant would be nuclear! And we even announced that Lifespan was declaring RI healthy and it would “Stop Seeing Patients.”

Happy April Fools!

Op-eds express the authors’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of Hey Rhody Media Co. Readers are welcome to send responses or letters to the editor to be considered for print publication in a future issue or posted online. Letters can be emailed to Ken@HeyRhody.com

One

Neighborhood News

Providence Neighborhood Associations

BLACKSTONE PARKS CONSERVANCY

P.O. Box 603141

Providence, RI 02906

admin@blackstoneparksconservancy.org

BlackstoneParksConservancy.org

Facebook: blackstoneparks

COLLEGE HILL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Rick Champagne

P.O. Box 2442

Providence, RI 02906

CHNA@chnaprovidence.org

CHNAProvidence.org

DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Kristin McGinn, President

401-580-2628

Facebook: Downtown Providence Neighborhood Association

IG: @DNAPVD

Email: DNAPVD@gmail.com

ELMWOOD NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Jen Vincent

JenniferDaltonVincent@gmail.com

Facebook: Elmwood Neighborhood Association PVD

FOX POINT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 2315

Providence, RI 02906

FoxPointNeighborhood@gmail.com FPNA.net

JEWELRY DISTRICT ASSOCIATION

Sharon Steele

Sharon@sharonsteele.com JewelryDistrict.org

Facebook: Jewelry District Association Providence, RI

A space made available to Providence’s neighborhood associations free of charge.

Thank you, volunteers

MILE OF HISTORY ASSOCIATION

Charles Hewitt, Secretary C/O One Governor Street, Providence

MOUNT HOPE COMMUNITY CENTER

401-521-8830

MHNAInc@gmail.com

Facebook: Mount Hope Neighborhood Association, Inc.

NORTH END NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Alice Gorman and Deborah Rodriquez Castillo Info@nenapvd.org

OLNEYVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Cindy Miranda, Board Chair

Cindy@ona-providence.org

Facebook: ONA Providence

PROVIDENCE COALITION OF NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS

Info@provcna.org ProvCNA.org

RESERVOIR TRIANGLE

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

David Talan

25 Santiago St., Providence, RI 02907

401-941-3662

DaveTalan@aol.com

SMITH HILL PARTNERS’ INITIATIVE

Wole Akinbi

400 Smith Street

Providence, RI 02908 Suite #1

AAkinbi@half-full.com

Facebook: Smith Hill Partners’ Initiative

SOUTH PROVIDENCE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 5653

Providence, RI 02903 • 401-369-1334

SouthProvNeighbors@gmail.com

Facebook: South Providence Neighborhood Association

SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 41092

Providence, RI 02940

SNAProv@gmail.com

SummitNeighbors.org

WASHINGTON PARK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

BettyLinda@aol.com

Facebook: Washington Park Association

WAYLAND SQUARE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

Katherine Touafek

Facebook: Wayland Square Neighborhood Association

WaylandSquareNeighbors@gmail.com

WEST BROADWAY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

1560 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02909

401-831-9344

WBNA@wbna.org • WBNA.org

Summit seeks volunteers and heroes; holds annual meeting this month

A big thank you to this year’s SNA Snow Brigade volunteers! The Brigade helps elderly and disabled neighbors who have difficulty clearing their walks and driveways and who cannot easily afford a service. We are thrilled to have 25 regular and four alternate volunteers serving over a dozen neighbors in need this winter. Thanks, also, to Sam Burgess, who has taken on the job of coordinating the Brigade this winter. If you’d like to join and help in the future, please email snasnow@gmail.com.

Are you new to the Summit neighborhood and looking to meet new people and get more involved in your community, or a long-time Summit resident with a great idea for improving the neighborhood? The SNA’s Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, April 27 at The Highlands, 101 Highland Avenue. We will be holding elections for board officers and members, and would love to have interested neighbors join us on the board! Contact us at SNAProv@gmail.com for more information.

Do you know a local unsung hero? Let us know. Named for the late Sheila Perlow, a long-time SNA board member and dedicated community volunteer, the Sheila B. Perlow Award recognizes someone in the neighborhood who has contributed behind the scenes in a significant way to the quality of life in our neighborhood. We are currently seeking nominations for the 2026 award, which will be presented at SNA’s Annual Meeting. Please e-mail nominations to SNAProv@gmail.com by April 15th. Include the nominee’s name and a few words about why you think they should be celebrated.

If you’re not quite ready to join the Board, but want to help out in other ways, contact SNAProv@gmail.com to join the volunteer email list. We send out notices about different volunteer opportunities, such as assisting the Mount Hope Community Center, Your Neighborhood Food Pantry, planting trees, and others. –Submitted by Sharon Lee Waldman

Earth Day and everyday – supporting a vibrant downtown

The Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) is gearing up for another year of connection, collaboration, and community pride. We invite all neighbors, merchants, and stakeholders to join us at our bi - monthly community meetings, where we discuss ongoing initiatives, share updates, and collaborate with downtown constituents to support a clean, welcoming, and thriving downtown. This spring, we’re holding our Annual Earth Day Clean - Up and Planting on Wednesday, April 22. This tradition brings together residents, merchants, and local corporations to refresh our shared spaces and celebrate the beauty of our city. We encourage participation from corporate groups, nonprofits, and school groups looking to make a meaningful impact. Our commitment to keeping downtown Providence clean, safe, and enjoyable is ongoing. We collaborate year - round with our friends at Mayor Brett Smiley’s Office, Providence Parks, the Partnership for Providence Parks, GoProvidence, Providence Planning & Development, the Providence Foundation, the Downtown Improvement District, and the Providence Police Department. Together, we work to ensure that our streets, riverfront, and public spaces remain vibrant and accessible for everyone who lives, works, and visits our capital city. Let’s continue building a downtown we can all take pride in! Please email dnapvd@gmail.com for more information on our Earth Day Clean-Up, and to sign up for our email list of upcoming events. –Submitted by Kristin McGinn

Daffodils are blooming along the Mile of History

Spring is finally here! Last November along the Mile of History, a group of hardy neighbors planted bulbs in the Gateway Garden, the small triangular park where Benefit, North Main, and Olney streets meet. Come see the daffodils and the glory of the snow in bloom. The many public “hidden” gardens and other green spaces in the Mile of History district are now blooming.

Remembering a Fox Point legend

Pouring one out for the recently passed Manuel Pedroso of Friends Market, purveyor of Portuguese and American Food on Brook Street. At 106 years-old, he’s remembered fondly as a fixture in the neighborhood.

IASIMONE PLUMBING

By now most of us have heard of, if not seen, a spotted lanternfly (SLF) here in Rhode Island. New to the Ocean State, these pests overwinter in egg masses on trees before hatching between late April and June. In their early nymph stages, they appear black with white spots, gradually growing larger and developing the red color they are known for. Reaching maturity by mid to late summer, SLF adults pierce vegetation (and in some cases, woody plant material) to feed on the sap of their host plants, draining them of fluid and producing honeydew as excrement. The resulting damage may appear as wilting, sooty mold, leaf loss, branch dieback, and in severe cases, tree death. There are many plants they prefer, such as ailanthus (tree of heaven), birch, maple, walnut, grapes, roses and more.

But not all hope is lost! Here at T.F. Morra Tree Care we are monitoring their populations and have treatment options that can help. If you have any concerns about your trees and shrubs, whether from SLF or other pest problems like Emerald Ash Borer or Beech Leaf disease the time to prepare is now. Contact us for a comprehensive consultation! Call us at 401-331-8527 or email Stephanie directly at stephanie@tfmorra.com.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Experts in Water Problems From Roofs, Gutters & Basements

Over 20 years of experience on historical homes

Renovated LRM #0514

Olympic Records

Record Store

What it is:

A locally owned record store with the latest vinyl and rare finds for collectors.

Where to find it:

In Fox Point, on Wickenden Street between Ives and Gano streets, next to Club Frills.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

Olympic Records is a neighborhood record store known for its easygoing vibe and friendly atmosphere. Since opening 14 years ago, it has grown into a trusted spot for vinyl lovers, offering a wide selection across numerous musical genres. “I’ve built a substantial selection of LP’s and 45’s that is well organized with a range of different types of music,” says owner Kevin Morosini. “We cater to both new collectors and those looking for rare and hard-tofind records.” In addition to selling records, Morosini also buys collections and offers trade opportunities. Whether you’re new to vinyl or a seasoned digger searching for that lost Clash album, the store provides a welcoming and carefully curated experience. Don’t forget to drop by on Record Store Day, Saturday, April 18, when Morosini expects to have a selection of one-of-a-kind titles.

Olympic Records

580 Wickenden Street Instagram: olympicrecords

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!

From the cobblestones of College Hill to historic cottages along our shorelines, I provide specialized advocacy for the Ocean State’s architectural treasures.

An elevated approach to historic representation:

• Deep knowledge of local historic districts, preservation guidelines, and tax-credit opportunities.

• Strategic pricing and marketing tailored to unique period details and craftsmanship.

• Trusted advisor for buyers seeking character homes and sellers ready for their next chapter.

Brent Runyon is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

After Pawtucket Shooting, Advocates Urge Awareness of Domestic Violence Warning Signs

Advocates say the Lynch Arena killings fit a troubling pattern as data show high rates of intimate partner violence statewide

In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org • By Luis Hernandez

Though police continue to investigate the mass shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch arena in Pawtucket, they have said that the shooting appears to be just the most recent high-profile incident of domestic violence. The shooter killed ex-wife Rhonda Dorgan and son Aidan. Police have yet to name a motive, but called the Feb. 16 shooting a “family dispute.”

“This was domestic violence,” Lucy Rios, executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, said in a statement after the shooting. “Domestic violence is not a private matter, and it is not a personal conflict that should be minimized. It is a serious crime that takes lives and leaves lasting trauma in its wake.”

According to the National Intimate Partner Violence Survey administered by the CDC, women in Rhode Island experience higher rates of intimate partner violence than women in any other New England state – 46.7 percent of women surveyed reported having experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lives.

Kelly Henry, with the Providence-based domestic violence resource agency Sojourner House, said the Pawtucket shooting was hard to stomach. “It almost takes your breath away,” Henry told Ocean State Media’s Luis Hernandez. “I’ve done this work for about 30 years, and I’ve lost quite a few clients over those 30 years. And so whenever something horrible like this happens,

“This was domestic violence,” Lucy Rios, executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence, said in a statement after the Pawtucket shooting

I always just have to take a pause and I kind of send energy to the family, to the community, to just the loss, and let myself grieve for a moment because it is hugely impactful.”

There have been 60 domestic violence homicides in Rhode Island since 2016, according to data provided by Sojourner House. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the presence of a gun in domestic violence situations increases the risk of homicide for women by 500 percent. Of the nine domestic violence homicides that occurred in Rhode Island since January 2025, eight involved firearms.

Henry said that when a client reaches out, Sojourner House workers conduct a risk assessment to determine the best ways to try to

by

• SPONSORED CONTENT •

Let My Company Help You De-Clutter Your Yard! Resources for help in Rhode Island

The number for Sojourner House’s 24/7 helpline is 401-765-3232. If calling is not a safe option for someone, they can also email info@sojournerri.org for support. For those who’d prefer to speak to an advocate in person, our Drop-In Center is located at 1570 Westminster Street in Providence. Confidential support is available across Rhode Island for anyone experiencing domestic violence. Services are free and available 24/7.

STATEWIDE AND LOCAL ADVOCACY AGENCIES:

• 24-hour confidential hotline: 1-800-494-8100

• Online chat and information: www.ricadv.org

• RICADV member agencies serve every city and town in Rhode Island:

• Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center (BVAC)

• Elizabeth Buffum Chace Center (EBCC)

• Women’s Resource Center (WRC)

• Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County (DVRCSC)

You are not alone. Support, safety planning, and advocacy services are available throughout Rhode Island. If you or someone you know needs help, confidential assistance is available 24 hours a day.

reduce the chances of violence. “For most of the clients that I’ve lost over the years, guns have been involved,” Henry said. “And so by using this kind of lethality assessment, we try to the best of our ability to determine how much at-risk they are, and then we try to safety plan with them or bring them into the shelter or get them resources like a no-contact order or a restraining order so that they can protect themselves and their family.”

This article was originally posted on January 28, 2026. Luis Hernandez can be reached at lhernandez@OceanStateMedia.org.

My name is Sam Smiley (they/them) and I am the owner and operator of Astrodime LLC. I am a licensed arborist in Rhode Island (#1194). I am a Rhode Island Certified Coastal Invasive Manager (#386) and an ISA Certified Arborist® CERT ID: NE-7960A.

Are you overwhelmed by Knotweed or tangled in Bittersweet? We start with a site visit to your property and we provide an ecosystem audit that includes thorough information about the site including:

• Invasive species identification

• Site mapped and rated for ease of maintenance by zone

• Surveys of existing plant inventory

After a site assessment, we include you in a 3 step Permaculture design process.. We consult with you on how you want to use and enjoy your yard. We involve you every step of the way. Whether it’s a zen garden, a meadow, or a backyard farm or orchard we can help you plan your yard’s future!

From Passion Project to the Mainstream

New documentary is a labor of love for two local podcasters

By Jonah Major

In the past 15 years, podcasts have gone from an internet subculture to something your aunt might send you. Chronicling it all is Shaun Michael Colón, whose new documentary, Age of Audio , traces the medium’s history and details the present-day podcast environment. “It took seven years of love and grit to capture the pioneers of podcasting,” said Colón.

“And we’re beyond proud to finally share it with the world.”

The film will have its Rhode Island premiere on Thursday, April 23, at 7pm at the AS220 Black Box performance space in Providence, followed by a live panel discussion on independent podcasting with Audrey Mardavich, executive director of Radiotopia, a podcast network that is part of PRX Productions. “I am so

excited to bring this film to Providence, with many people locally who helped work on the film being from the area,” said Colón. “AS220 has long supported independent creators and musicians, and it feels like the perfect fit for this premiere in the Providence area.”

A pair of talented local podcasters from the Hey Rhody Media family also worked on the film: longtime contributor Chuck Staton

(known for Funbearable and Chuck and Brad Podcast ) and Chris Revill, our account manager for Providence (host of Let’s Chat! and Hey Rhody Podcast ). “I have been podcasting since 2013, and Rhode Island has one of the best podcast scenes in the country,” said Revill, “Working on a documentary with a friend I met through the medium is truly a full-circle moment.”

Age of Audio functions as survey of modern podcasting, examining the boom in audio storytelling not seen since the days of radio, with interviews ranging from comedian Marc Maron, whose WTF with Marc Maron Podcast (recently ended after 1,686 episodes and paved the way for other comedians to start podcasting – a societal boon or ill depending on who you ask), to Ira Glass, whose radio show This American Life has found a new audience on podcast feeds. “Meeting podcast heroes like Ira Glass

was incredible,” said Colón, “But following independent creator Ronald Young Jr. was the heart of the film, showing what it truly means to be an independent artist.” Young Jr., an aspiring podcast superstar, serves as the documentary’s protagonist, and the audience surrogate for the world of podcast economics that the film navigates. While podcasting seems bigger than ever, through the eyes of Young Jr., Colón takes audiences on a tour of the realities behind the medium, and what it

takes to have your voice heard – literally.

“Sometimes it feels like I’ve shown up at the party a little bit more than fashionably late,” says Young Jr. in the trailer for the film. In a media industry that appears booming from the outside, Colón’s film examines whether podcasting is still a viable career path for newcomers, or if, as Maron would say at the beginning of his podcast, they’ve locked the gates. Learn more at AS220’s website: AS220.org. Follow the film on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @aoamovie

NEW SEASON, NEW FACE, NEW KEYS!

Bridget has a deep-rooted passion for homes and the communities they shape. She is a proud Rhode Islander and deeply connected to the neighborhoods she serves. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a cherished property, or investing in your future, Bridget will be by your side every step of the way—making the process seamless, informed, and with confidence. A trusted partner who is as invested in your journey as you are.

The Must List

essential events this month

April 3, 10, 17: Join Rhode Island College student-run radio station 90.7 WXIN for the annual Battle of the Bands Rock Hunt , featuring eight bands competing at RIC’s Beestro Cafe for a chance to play the coveted finale. RICRadio.org

April 10: Celebrate a Record Release Party for Nova One’s new album, How to Kiss , at AS220’s main stage. The city’s own alt-indie pop band, who played Newport Folk in 2025, will be joined by openers EDT and Dog’s on Shady Lane. AS220.com

April 10-12: Be inspired by 200-plus exhibitors at the annual RI Home Show . Stop by the Design Lab, a multi-sensory experience curated by local artists that reveals how design truly works. Other installations include the specialty flower show and House of Brews. RIBAHomeShow.com

April 15: Join Hey Rhody Media Co. at the Medici Lounge in the Jewelry District as we celebrate the Who to Watch honorees showcased in our January issue. The evening includes food, drinks, a live DJ, and more. HeyRhody.com

April 11: Head to the Stone Soup Coffee House at the Music Mansion on Meeting Street for Boston-based roots/folk singer Thea Hopkins , playing songs from her new album Blossoms & Ghosts . Local great Mary Ann Rossoni opens. StoneSoupCoffeehouse.org

April 11: RISD UNBOUND celebrates books, zines, and experimental printed material created by RISD students, local artists and designers, publishers, creators, and print enthusiasts from across the region. Free and open to the public. Unbound.RISD.edu

April 11-12: The Bloom Flower & Home Market hosts over 85 vendors of indoor and outdoor plants, home decor, jewelry, candles, and art, along with botanical-inspired cocktails and more at the WaterFire Arts Center. BloomFlowerAndHome.com

For weekly Musts subscribe to our newsletter at HeyRhody.com

April 15-19: Filmmakers and artists of color have the opportunity to showcase their visions of creativity at the Rhode Island Black Film Festival , which takes place at venues around Providence, and in Newport and Kingston. RIBFF.org

April 18: Calling all snail-mail fans: the Perfect Pairing Pop Up Party held at Track 15 will celebrate the unveiling of a new USPS Happy Birthday stamp with a pop-up retail market featuring vendors selling cards, stationery and stickers, organized locally. GreetingCard.org

April 29: Miss those Winter Olympic moments? Stars on Ice has all your favorite skaters, including “Quad God” Ilia Malinin, world champion and gold medalists Alysa Liu, Chock & Bates, and other ice skating stars. AmicaMutualPavilion.com

by

South County

Rhode Island

This Spring in South County, RI...

Hike or bike miles of trails through lush forests and wildlife preserves and discover the Thomas Dambo trolls—two new additions in South County: Iver Mudslider in North Kingstown and Young Boulder in Arcadia, plus the originals Erik Rock and Greta Granit in Ninigret Park. Ninigret will also burst into color with beautiful daffodils—perfect for photos. After a day of exploring, unwind at one of our luxury spas or head to the dunes and enjoy any of our 20 public beaches. Learn more at SouthCountyRI.com.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

( a Rhode Island)

HOME

New book is a love letter to the Ocean State’s unique coastal architecture

BY ANDREA E. MCHUGH

WINDOWS AND SCREEN DOORS IN THE SUNROOM PROVIDE THE BAREST OF SEPARATION FROM THE SURROUNDING WORLD OF GRASS, TREES, STONE WALL, AND BAY. THE COTTAGE, SAUNDERSTOWN

CEILING FANS AND OPEN SPACE ABOVE THE BEDROOM PARTITIONS ALLOW FOR NIGHTTIME AIR MOVEMENT.

WAINWRIGHT COTTAGE, JAMESTOWN

A DINING SET OF SLATTED WOOD SIGNALS BATHING SUITS ARE WELCOME HERE.

MUSCOVY RIDGE, WATCH HILL

A MIRROR IS USED TO BRING LIGHT AND MOVEMENT TO THE SPACE.

MUSCOVY RIDGE, WATCH HILL

Despite growing up in more than half a dozen places from Connecticut and New Mexico to across the world, it’s Weekapaug’s crisp ocean air, golden-hour light, and summertime simplicity that left an indelible mark on Thomas Kligerman’s childhood, inspiring his fifth and highly anticipated book, Summer by the Sea Kligerman, a well-respected architect and founding partner of New York-based Kligerman Architecture and Design, intimately knows coastal design; his firm has led residential projects from Maine to Martha’s Vineyard, the Hamptons to Hawaii. But his experience designing homes in the most prestigious zip codes hasn’t dulled his appreciation for simplicity.

“When I was 10, my parents started renting a house in Weekapaug,” said Kligerman. Though the family moved to Albuquerque and eventually, other places far and wide, he stayed in touch with childhood friends in Weekapaug who, as adults, encouraged him to visit. “Then I started going again some 20-odd years later, and we started renting the same house my parents did when I was a kid,” he says. “Nothing had changed – the same pictures on the walls, the same furniture, the same rug – it was like a time warp.”

THE WASH OF WHITE AND APPLE GREEN OVER DARK BLUE BRINGS A DRIFTWOOD CHARACTER TO THE LIVING ROOM PANELING.

BAYRIDGE, WATCH HILL

THE STAIRCASE DISAPPEARS BEHIND A WALL HUNG WITH HAND-PAINTED TÔLE TRAYS DEPICTING THE ORIGINAL OWNERS’ SAILBOATS. FRENCH DOORS CAN SEPARATE ONE SPACE FROM ANOTHER.

THE COTTAGE, SAUNDERSTOWN

After renting for 20 years, Kligerman bought nearby land and put his architectural skills to use. His Weekapaug home is a sanctuary for him and his wife, also an architect, and their three adult daughters when they visit. “My kids are third-generation Weekapaug, but my friends? Some of them have family who have been coming here since the Civil War. I’m a Johnny-come-lately,” Kligerman muses.

Inspired by his halcyon summers spent along the state’s southern coastline, combined with an appreciation for the distinctive shingle-style design of these Rhode Island “cottages” (which any Rhode Islander knows is a term that doesn’t necessarily denote diminutive), Summer by the Sea. Cottages from Watch Hill to Little Compton depicts 16 diverse homes; some that have stood the test of time, others that are newer but pay homage to the past.

Each chapter explores homes in a different town or village – Watch Hill, Weekapaug, Haversham, Block Island, Saunderstown, Jamestown, Middletown, Little Compton –with details that capture their essence. “The wood, the screened-in porch, windows open, the old cliche of the slap of the screen door,” these, he says, are the things that create that unmistakable Rhode Island summertime-by-the-sea alchemy.

RIDGE, WATCH HILL

Expect insights into each town’s unique landscape and historical notes like the origin stories of Native American names (like Quonochontaug), how Watch Hill became such a coveted summer colony, and more. “I talk about artists like Sydney Burleigh,” he begins, referencing the Little Compton-based painter who designed the Fleur-de-lys Studios in Providence. “I talk about lighthouses and shipwrecks. It’s a Rhode Island story, but its framework is houses and their interiors,” Kligerman explains. “You

can look at all of these houses and think, “I can imagine living there.”

The project was a natural fit for photographer Read McKendree, who works worldwide but serendipitously calls Westerly home. He had been living in New York for years, but the Connecticut native ultimately answered Rhode Island’s call. “That’s the Rhode Island curse, kind of; once you come here, you don’t actually want to be anywhere else,” he says.

art

GLASSES AND TEACUPS FOR EVERY OCCASION ARE STORED IN THIS CABINET, WHICH SEPARATES THE KITCHEN FROM THE DINING ROOM.

CLINGSTONE, JAMESTOWN

WALLPAPER BRINGS NOSTALGIC CHARM TO A BEDROOM, READY TO ACCOMMODATE A SUMMER OF MEMORY-MAKING

BAYRIDGE, WATCH HILL

A DIAMOND-PATTERN CASEMENT WINDOW WELCOMES SEA BREEZES INSIDE WITH STYLE.

BAYRIDGE, WATCH HILL

When McKendree met up with Kligerman, the synergy was palpable. Both share an appreciation for the indefinable magnetism of coastal Rhode Island and the homes here that feel treasured. “This was a huge project,” he says. “But I have such an appreciation for these homes that, whether they’re new or old, people actually live in, make memories in, and there’s such a richness to that. Rhode Island especially still has these little pockets of architecture and old cottages and homes that people just love.”

MAY 7-10, 2026

BALLET RI BLACK BOX THEATRE PROVIDENCE, RI

MAY 14-17, 2026

UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND J STUDIO KINGSTON, RI

Scan for tickets or visit balletri.org

BALLET RI presents Sophie Treadwell’s searing 1928 play reborn as a striking new ballet.

WHAT’S IN A NAME

Unfamiliar

with some Rhode Island locales? You’re not alone.

While the reference point of “where Almacs used to be” is fading from conversations, some place names and properties continue to puzzle even longtime residents. To address any confusion, we’ve assembled a guide – a “who’s who” or “where’s where” – to sort out some coastal locations from Clingstone to Haversham.

Many Rhode Island cities and towns encompass several villages, neighborhoods, and hamlets, some with names that may be unfamiliar even to folks nearby. Westerly, for one, is rich with history, architecture, and small designations. From the 1870s to the 1950s, the town was a major center for mining and stone-cutting – famous for its “Westerly granite” – pinkish, blue, and red stone varieties used in buildings along the eastern seaboard. Within town limits, there are myriad places like Avondale, once called Lotteryville, with its 50-acre preserve, and affluent areas like Watch Hill, home to the Ocean House and Taylor Swift; Weekapaug, featuring a historic inn overlooking Quonochontaug Pond, and Winnapaug, home to a Donald Ross-designed golf course. Other villages are Bradford, Dunn’s Corners, Haversham with its recently refreshed tavern, Potter Hill along the Pawcatuck River, Shelter Harbor, White Rock, and Misquamicut, well-known for its expansive state beach and lively summertime atmosphere.

Still in South County, but further north is Saunderstown, a small village and historic district spread across the four towns of Narragansett, South Kingstown, Exeter and North Kingstown. It has its own postal code, Casey Farm, a large family farm operated by Historic New England, and is known as the birthplace of Gilbert Stuart, who painted the portrait of George Washington that appears on the one-dollar bill. Nearby, discover villages like Kenyon, Usquepaug, and Carolina.

Meanwhile, on Conanicut Island is the town of Jamestown, just under a mile offshore from Fort Wetherill State Park is the distinctive shingle-style dwelling known as Clingstone. Nicknamed for being “a peach of a house,” the structure sits on a small rocky island in Narragansett Bay, part of an outcropping of small islands known as “the dumplings.” Built in 1905 to withstand hurricanes, the three-story, 23-room building is often called “the house on the rock.” In 1961, Boston architect Henry Wood purchased the neglected 10,000-square-foot property for $3,600 (the amount of back taxes owed); it was missing a roof, had smashed windows, and plenty of shingle damage. Wood gradually restored the home, which his family continues to use most summers. The 10-bedroom premises, which runs on wind power, offers stunning views of Fort Adams, the Pell Bridge, Hammersmith Farm, and the Rhode Island Sound. It was also the setting for a Mumford and Sons music video. Clingstone is noted to be available for rent at approximately $10,000 per week. –Elyse Major

THE DISTINCTIVE FOUR-STORY SILHOUETTE OF CLINGSTONE ATOP ITS JAGGED ISLAND. THE TWELVE-METER SLOOP GLEAM SAILS BY, KEEPING ITS DISTANCE FROM THE TRICKY WATERS THAT SURROUND THE HOUSE.

CLINGSTONE, JAMESTOWN

THE STUDIO, JAMESTOWN

Maximize space with furniture that can be easily moved to accommodate entertaining

HOME & STYLE

Home | Garden | Rhody Reads | Shop

The Bold and the Beautiful

Color and pattern bring fresh energy to a stately home

By Ann Martini

Ahouse that no longer feels like a home to the owners – what a more complex, yet potential-rich, dilemma for interior designers?

The interior of an otherwise gracious 1920 Center Hall Colonial on Providence’s East Side, dreary pandemic-era updates left rooms cloaked in cool blues and grays. “The owners told us it felt sterile,” says Rochelle Bloom, who along with partner Kacey Dillier, helms Providence-based Bloom and Dillier Interiors. The duo welcomed the challenge with open arms. “They were really longing for warmth, pattern, and fun,” Bloom recalls.

Fortunately, the home offered what Bloom describes as “beautiful bones” – from the vestibule windows and elegant staircase to the detailed trim framing the living room fireplace. Color became the unifying language of the redesign. “We always ask clients which colors they’re drawn to before we begin,” Bloom notes. Here, blues, greens, pinks, and purples flow throughout the house, creating cohesion while still allowing each room its own identity. The vestibule is punctuated with a joyful purple wallpaper by Alex Conroy, a textile designer also based in Providence. “You can’t help but smile when you walk in and see it,” Bloom says.

Existing bookshelves backed with wallpaper become a showcase. “Add books, art, and pieces that mean a lot to you,” advises Bloom.

“We believe small spaces are ideal areas to add color,” says Bloom, noting the jacaranda-shaded sisal wallpaper by Providence designer Alex Conroy Textiles

Their designer philosophy is unapologetically bold yet deeply personal. “We believe color brings fun and personality to a home,” she explains. That confidence is balanced with respect for history – most notably in the living room, where heirloom wingback chairs were reupholstered rather than replaced. “It’s about giving a nod to the generations while still moving forward,” Bloom says.

Function was equally important. The homeowners wanted a living room that finally worked for entertaining. Custom-built bookshelves installed before the designers came on board felt flat, but demolition wasn’t the answer. Instead, Bloom and Dillier refreshed them with new

hardware, rich blue paint, and ocean-inspired wallpaper lining the backs of the open shelves.

“They were high quality,” Bloom explains. “They just needed life breathed back into them.”

“The home is the backdrop of the family,” Bloom says. “It should be as dynamic as the people

who live there – ebbing and flowing through different stages of life.” In the reimagined version of this house, that philosophy comes through clearly: sophisticated but fun, rooted in history yet full of joy; a celebration of its architectural heritage and the lively spirit of the family who lives there.

Get Rhody Style

Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.

Local Inspo

“The Ocean State gives so much inspiration,” says Bloom, a native Rhode Islander. (Dillier has been here for a decade, an architecture graduate from Roger William University.) Living and working here shapes how Bloom and Dillier think about design. A mix of local makers, regional galleries, and time spent by the water informs their approach, grounding even the boldest choices in a strong sense of place. Learn more at BloomAndDillier.com.

Colorful Outlook

“We believe that color brings joy and personality to a home. We’re not afraid of bold choices, and we’re always on the hunt for fresh patterns, unexpected details, and a balance between sophistication and comfort,” says Bloom. The team frequents haunts across the state such as Providence Picture Frame and Dryden Gallery, North Providence; Homeport and Newport Lamp and Shade Company, Newport; Groundswell Garden and Home, Tiverton; The Farmer’s Daughter, South Kingstown; Jordan’s Jungle, Pawtucket; Mike’s Estate Services in West Warwick; and The Floral Reserve, Simple Pleasures, and Stock in Providence, for all the inspiration.

Art Colony

Providence is such a special city thriving with very talented creatives. We love connecting with local artisans at the RISD Craft events and Providence Porchfest; working with vendors like Ardente Supply and Edge & End Studios, Providence, and Hwang Bishop Designs and O&G Studio in Warren.

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Rooted in Success

Local pros share how to make your garden grow

By Elyse Major

Once nurseries begin displaying flats of colorful blooms, who among us can resist wanting to try our thumbs at gardening?

Achieving lasting success requires starting with a good foundation, according to Rhode Island experts Tom Bennett, owner and horticulturist at City and Estate Gardener, LLC, in Providence, Mimi Arnold, The Farmer Florist in Block Island, and John Francisco, owner of Hilltop Garden Center in Smithfield.

Follow the Sun

“The three factors that determine success in any planting – whether flowers, shrubs, or trees – are sun exposure, water availability, and choosing the right specimen for the right spot,” says Bennett. Before installing anything, observe how many hours of direct sunlight the area receives and, just as importantly, how it will be watered. “Consistent, reliable watering dramatically improves

plant performance. When water is predictable, plants establish more quickly and remain healthier throughout the season,” he says. Francisco agrees, “Selecting plants suited to your specific light conditions is vital for their growth and survival.” Light is a major factor in care, as plantings in full sun typically need more water because they dry out faster, while shade-loving varieties generally require less maintenance.

Build Healthy Soil

“Most local soils are workable but benefit from improvement,” advises Bennett. “Loosen the soil, remove weeds, and incorporate organic compost before planting. Strong roots are the foundation of strong performance.” Arnold agrees, noting that a key to healthy flowers is good, nourished soil to promote root growth and maintain a balance of water retention and absorption. This is done with added nutrients called amendments. “Amendments can get pricey, so use what’s available around you. I like to use what’s abundant to me on Block Island, like seaweed, fallen leaves, and horse manure,” says Arnold. Francisco cautions that your soil may require amending if it is heavy clay, sandy, rocky, or full of existing roots before you put anything in the ground. After planting, Bennett recommends applying one to two inches of mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and create a finished appearance. “Whether planting flowers or shrubs, soil preparation and mulch make the difference between short-term color and lasting vitality,” says Bennett.

Act Naturally

Arnold emphasizes the importance of avoiding chemicals in the garden. “Not only do you want to stay safe in the outdoor space, but think of those that also spend time among the flowers: children, dogs and cats, bees and butterflies.” To keep destructive insects and mildew away from her crops, Arnold leans towards natural solutions like diatomaceous earth (a rock powder), neem oil, and milky spore. If weeds are an issue along your patio or driveway, she suggests using high-grade vinegar combined with dish soap and water.

Revisit the Landscape

“Many residential landscapes were installed when the home was built. Twenty to 30 years later, those shrubbery/trees may have simply outgrown their original design,” says Bennett. As trees mature and light patterns shift, selective updates help restore balance and proportion. “A landscape should evolve. The goal is always the same – healthy specimens in the right place, scaled appropriately to the home.”

Plan for Color

To achieve immediate visual impact, Bennett suggests focusing on the front entrance. “Five to 10 square feet of well-designed seasonal color on each side of a walkway can transform a home’s feel.” This space can later host spring-flowering bulbs like tulips and daffodils for layered, yearround interest. He notes that “concentrated, intentional plantings create more impact than scattering flowers.” Before visiting a garden center, Francisco advises taking pictures and measurements of your space for accurate staff advice. He also recommends buying a “what grows in New England” book to learn hardiness zones and avoid wasting money on unsuitable plants. He also suggests an initial, pressure-free trip to just look at available plants. Arnold agrees, cautioning against overbuying, comparing it to a “kid in the candy store.” She advises against experimenting with difficult varieties, reminding people, “This is supposed to be fun!”

Rhody Resources

A sampling of places to shop small for goods and guidance around the state:

A Piece of Paradise, Exeter

Back Yard Creations, Foster

Blue Moon Farm Perennials, South Kingstown

Botanical Creations Nursery, West Kingston

Boulevard Nurseries, Middletown

Briden Nursery, Cranston

Butterfly Farm, Lincoln

Casey Farm, North Kingstown

City & Estate Gardener LLC, Providence

Clark Farms, Wakefield

DeCastro Farms, Portsmouth

Domina’s Agway, Portsmouth

The Farmer’s Daughter, Wakefield

Fern and Flora, East Greenwich

Festival Farm, Hope Valley

Grandin Farms, Wakefield

Hidden Gardens, Barrington

Highland Farm, Wakefield

Hilltop Garden Center, Smithfield

Lotus, North Kingstown

Manfredi Farms, Westerly

Mapleville Farm, Mapleville

Mello’s Farm and Flower Center, Portsmouth

Moore Blooms, Middletown

Northland Farm & Garden Center, Cumberland

Nuts and Bolts Nursery, Smithfield

Post Road Materials, North Kingstown

Redwood Nursery, Swansea

Rhode Island Nurseries, Middletown

Robin Hollow Farm, Saunderstown

Rose Shack, Saunderstown

Scituate Farm & Nursery, North Scituate

Wicked Roots Micro Farm, Charlestown

Wicked Tulips, North Kingstown

Wildwood Nursery and Garden Center, East Greenwich

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Five new books spring-forward with style and romance

By Deborah Goodrich Royce

Rhody Reads S

pring is finally here! After a long winter amidst much world drama, I launched Best Boy , my latest novel, and embarked on a book tour. Meeting readers on the road is always special, but coming home is equally wonderful. Now I have daffodils on the mind. Like Thumper in Bambi , I’m “twitterpated” about sunshine, flowers and, as always, a new crop of fantastic books. Pick up a good book and enjoy these slow days before summer whirls us up like the merrygo-round in Watch Hill.

On March 4, architect Thomas A. Kligerman released Summer by the Sea. Cottages from Watch Hill to Little Compton , which celebrates Rhode Island’s shingle style as the “architecture of the American summer.” The book showcases a variety of homes, from 19th-century masters like Calvert Vaux and Charles L. Bevins, to work by contemporary architects such as Jens Risom, Gil Schafer, and Peter Bohlin. Kligerman’s own house in Weekapaug is featured, which he describes as “an architectural madeleine.” Please join me in conversation with Kligerman at the Ocean House Author Series on November 21.

Emily Franklin’s Love and Other Monsters , releasing on April 7, is a guaranteed page-turner. The novel takes readers to the shores of Lake Geneva in the summer of 1816, where Romantic literary figures –Percy and Mary Shelley, Lord Byron, and Mary’s younger sister, Claire Clairmont – gather for creative and perhaps darker pursuits. Central to the mystery is Claire: What was her role in the summer’s romantic entanglements? And who stole her journal, forever concealing the secrets of those fateful months?

Please consider shopping local when making book purchases

Ready for a new season of gardening in Rhode Island, the editors at Phaidon have compiled a gorgeous (and helpful) new book, The Coastal Garden , out on May 6. Coastlines can be rocky, sandy, or both, and they are always certain to be windy and salty. These elements pose special gardening challenges which are all beautifully addressed with fresh ideas and inspiring images in the book, sure to become your gardening go-to!

ABOUT DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE

Deborah Goodrich Royce is an accomplished author, former actress, and philanthropist. Her newest psychological thriller, Best Boy , was published on February 24, 2026. Her national bestseller, Reef Road , was a Kirkus Reviews best book of 2023 and an Indie Next pick. Ruby Falls won the Zibby Award for Best Plot Twist, and Finding Mrs. Ford was praised by Forbes , Book Riot, and Good Morning America . Royce cocreated the Deer Mountain Writers’ Retreat in the Catskills with Luanne Rice and Amy Scheibe. She hosts the Ocean House Author Series, partnering with Martin House Books and WCRI to bring authors like Emma Straub, Chris Bohjalian, and Katie Couric to Watch Hill. Royce began as an actress on All My Children and in films, then became a story editor at Miramax Films, developing Emma and early versions of Chicago and A Wrinkle in Time . She holds a bachelor’s degree and two honorary doctorates from Lake Erie College and the University of Rhode Island. With her husband, Chuck, she restored the Avon Theatre, Ocean House Hotel, Deer Mountain Inn, The United Theatre, Martin House Books, and numerous revitalization projects in Rhode Island and the Catskills. She serves on multiple governing and advisory boards, and contributes this column quarterly. Learn more at @deborahgoodrichroyce or @oceanhouseevents for the full season of authors.

May 5 delivers Liberty Island by USA Today bestseller Virginia Hume. A story of love, legacy, and belonging, this multi-generational tale of women defining freedom is set on a rugged island off the coast of Maine. Ricocheting between the story of Anna Bradley, a free-thinking writer at the turn of the last century, and her niece Julia Demarest, who, facing disillusionment with and estrangement from her wealthy family, returns to Haven Point 20 years later.

To wrap-up spring with a little summer-longing romcom, Katherine Center comes out with The Shippers on May 19. Set at a destination wedding on a cruise ship (what could go wrong?), the novel tracks the shipboard antics as JoJo Burton, sister of the bride, decides to pursue the man she thinks is her own Mr. Right, helped along by the man she knows is definitely her Mr. Wrong. Or is he? This charming story promises a delightful mix of romance, humor, and high-seas shenanigans. Please join me in conversation with Center at the Ocean House Author Series on May 27.

Furniture Flex

Rhody-made goods for the design obsessed

By Britt Machado

There’s nothing Rhode Islanders love more than a well-kept secret. Whether it’s a favorite beach spot or a little pasta joint, there’s an impulse to protect the thing you adore from being overrun. But when it comes to the outrageously good furniture and décor being made here at home, it’s time we shout it from the rooftops. Whether you’re Samuel Aguirre who is applying ancient Mexican paper mache techniques to furniture design, or Jazzmen Lee-Johnson reinterpreting antique French toile through contemporary American cultural moments, we’re making good and interesting things right here. What’s that saying? Flaunt it if you’ve got it.

Gaja Console

INDO-, Rumford INDO-Made.com

Barnacle Cluster Hanging Pendant Hwang Bishop, Warren HwangBishop.com

Amate Chair

Samuel Aguirre, Providence SaminDaMan.com

Linden Table Lamp

Studio Dunn, Rumford StudioDunn.com

Balloon Mania Chair

Jazzmen Lee-Johnson, Providence JazzmenLeeJohnson.com

Baluster with Drunken Spirals

Studio FraJas, Cranston StudioFrajas.com

Atlantic Bedside Table

O&G Studio, Warren OandGStudio.com

Art “Untitled” by Jack Massey

Hera Gallery, Wakefield HeraGallery.org

FEATURE

Ocean State to Table

A branding campaign helps connect consumers with Rhode Island seafood

By Molly Moran-Ogren and Jordyn Zacharias

Rhode Island is known as the Ocean State for good reasons. With more than 400 miles of coastline in the smallest state, seafood is a big part of who we are and how we make a living. Still, for years, much of the seafood on our tables came from far away, while great local fish and shellfish were often ignored. That disconnect is exactly what RI Seafood, a government-led initiative of the Rhode Island Seafood Marketing Collaborative (SMC), is working to change.

The SMC was established by the Rhode Island General Assembly in 2011 with a clear objective: to support local fishermen and small businesses while increasing public awareness and consumption of locally fished species. The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) leads the collaborative with support from a 19-member board representing every part of the seafood industry, including state agencies, universities, economists, industry groups, markets, and restaurants, which ensures information that is grounded in science, economics, and the real experiences of

those who catch and sell local seafood.

“The goal is to help more people know about, trust, and choose seafood caught in Rhode Island,” says SMC Chair Molly Moran-Ogren. “This supports our fishing industry, small businesses, and working waterfront, while giving residents fresh, tasty options close to home.”

Rhode Island is fortunate to have a robust commercial fishery that supports shoreside businesses, processing facilities, and thousands of jobs. In 2024, the state’s fishery landed over 61.1 million pounds of seafood, adding $72 million to the local economy. From long -

time favorites like squid, sea scallops, lobsters, oysters, and quahogs to scup, fluke, monkfish, black sea bass, bigeye tuna, and Jonah crab, Rhode Island waters are abundant with high-quality seafood landed daily. Yet in the marketplace, local seafood often blends in with regional, national, and global products. Consumers browsing menus or seafood counters may not know whether what they’re buying was harvested locally or shipped from thousands of miles away. To address that challenge, the RI Seafood brand was developed to clearly identify seafood landed in the Ocean State.

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Flexible consumption seasonal species chart

“When you see the RI Seafood logo, you can be confident the seafood was landed in Rhode Island,” says Moran-Ogren. “We work diligently to educate consumers on where and how to buy local seafood.” Today, more than 160 venues across the state support Rhode Island’s fishing fleet by selling locally caught and landed seafood. “Every bit of this work strengthens our seafood economy. We’re inviting Rhode Islanders to join us by choosing local and supporting our fishermen,” says Moran-Ogren. SMC Board Member Stu Meltzer agrees. Inside his business, Fearless Fish Market in Providence, you’ll find a cooler packed with dozens and dozens of fish, meticulously labeled by species, the name of the fisherman who caught it, the harvest date, and the size. “I want to help people to feel more confident buying, cooking, and trying new seafood,” he says.

DIG INTO QUAHOG WEEK: MAY 17-23

One of RI Seafoods flagship initiatives is Quahog Week, an annual celebration of Rhode Island’s most iconic shellfish. This year is the 10th Annual Shell-ebration which highlights wild-harvested clams, the people who dig them, and the restaurants and markets that serve them. With millions of quahogs harvested annually, the fishery supports hundreds of livelihoods and remains deeply rooted in Rhode Island culture. Restaurants and markets throughout Rhode Island will offer special quahog dishes that show off the clam’s sustainability and year-round availability. The weeklong celebration will also have two free public events where you can meet wild-harvest quahoggers, try freshly shucked clams, and enjoy dishes from local partners. Learn more at Seafood.RI.gov

Community Amenities

Rhode Island’s commercial fishing and seafood industry is diverse, dynamic, and steeped in tradition. It continues to thrive thanks to healthy fishery resources and the thousands of hardworking people who harvest, process, and sell seafood. RI Seafood encourages people to practice flexible consumption and eat what’s in season and plentiful. Farming and fishing depend on the weather, rules, and the time of year. Choosing local means

you get the freshest seafood and help support both sustainability and the local economy. Since 1987, Andrade’s Catch on Bristol’s Wood Street has practiced safe fishing methods and worked to educate the community about their beloved industry. Today, the founders’ son Davy Andrade is at the helm. “I was born into this business, and every day I get to see it through start to finish from the boat to the consumer,” he says.

For those eager to dig deeper, the DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife runs Come Clam with Me workshops each summer. These popular threehour, hands-on sessions introduce participants to our state’s quahog fishery, covering ecology, regulations, harvesting, shucking, and cooking. Look for 2026 season dates to be posted soon at DEM.RI.gov.

WOMEN’S SUMMIT

Presented by Bryant University

The 29th annual Women’s Summit® continued the tradition of empowering, supporting, and encouraging women to excel professionally, personally, and financially. Thank you to our esteemed speakers and all who attended for your participation and perspective.

A Special Thanks to our Loyal and Valued Sponsors: is the Platinum Sponsor

Diamond Sponsors: Citizens Bank, Fidelity Investments

Gold Sponsors: Bank of America, PwC

Silver Sponsors: Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI, FM, Navigant Credit Union, Neurotech, New England Construction, Robinson+Cole, TIAA

Bronze Sponsors: AAA Northeast, AIPSO, BankNewport, Beacon Mutual, CBIZ MHM, Centerville Bank, Eastern Bank, Gilbane, Hope Global, Southcoast Health, Teknor Apex

Media Sponsors: Boston Globe Rhode Island, Hey Rhody Media Co., Ocean State Media, Providence Business News, Rhode Island Monthly

FEATURE

FLEXIBLE MBA

The MBA options at the University of Rhode Island, the No. 1 public university in New England as ranked by The Wall Street Journal, offer flexibility and quality on your terms.

Through its Local Seafood Finder, RI Seafood connects shoppers, home cooks, and diners with more than 160 partner restaurants, markets, and venues across the state that sell or serve local seafood. Those partners play a direct role in supporting the

state’s fishing fleet, aquaculture farmers, processors, and wholesalers. “The best food is simple, and it always tastes better when it’s made with local produce and seafood,” says Executive Chef Andrew Gould from the Ce

leste kitchen in Narragansett.

to your meals. From dock to dinner, RI Seafood makes it easy to spot, choose, and enjoy what’s landed right here in Rhode Island.” To stay updated on what’s in season and where to find it, follow @RISeafood on Facebook and @RI.Seafood on Instagram.

FOOD & DRINK

In the Kitchen | Experience | Round Up | Recipe

Profound Pizza

Every pie reflects a chef’s reverence for family, ingredients, and the pursuit of greatness

Photography by Erin McGinn

By Erin McGinn

Anthony Giordano’s ambition for pizza is global. He doesn’t limit his perspective to Providence, New England, the East Coast, or even the United States. Instead, he compares himself only to the world’s elite. Based on his rapid-fire statistics, most of these top-tier pizza makers are located in Naples, Italy, the birthplace of his grandmother, Anna.

Even without hearing the stories of Anna directly from Giordano, the prose on Anna’s Vesuviano website paints a vivid picture. Anna, who passed away before Giordano was born, is the subject of captivating family lore: she was an Ellis Island translator, had ties to a crime family, and was a heroine in her own right. This fascinating history drew in Giordano and made his grandmother a guiding force, his North Star. Her lessons were simple yet profound: work relentlessly, get an education, build connections, and shatter expectations. Her spirit is the foundation of his work and her portrait adorns the walls of the bright, understated pizzeria on Doyle Avenue, inviting customers to learn more about the woman who inspired it all.

“A perpetual work in progress,” Giordano says of making a pizza

Giordano’s cousin, Salim, crafted the oven. As Giordano says, “What makes Anna’s special is when the oven, dough and team are all vibing, you can actually witness alchemy.”

“Anna’s is a complete revolt against the standardization and uniformity of pizza,” Giordano says. “My goal has always been to open people’s minds to what’s possible with pizza. A canvas with no boundaries that very few can truly make sense of.” His commitment is absolute, stating, “I’ll do anything required of me to be the best.”

After growing up in Brooklyn, eating New York’s legendary Una Pizza Napoletana, learning the industry under the wing of his multi-talented restaurateur brother Shawn,

by Erin McGinn

and working in Naples for two and a half years, Giordano isn’t just here to try and make a great pie in little Providence, though he is. “I wasn’t born here. I’m a guest. So as a guest, I welcome all people to Anna’s,” says the intense-yet-playful entrepreneur. “The community has been nothing but amazing and supportive, something I never experienced growing up in New York.”

As we sit at mosaic-topped tables surrounded by familiar pops of red and green, Giordano is quick to educate me on some of the reasons why

The sourdough includes einkorn flour, which results in a crust that is both crispy and chewy

Neapolitan pizza remains the ultimate. And it has everything to do with locality: the fertile volcanic soil, the freshness, the community. So every chance he gets, he packs up his team and heads to the little neighborhoods and ancient streets of one of the oldest cities on a sensory tour through the list of the world’s best pizza. To help educate, inspire, and be immersed in what that truly means, because, as he says, “If you’re not making what you think is the best, then why are you doing it at all?”

One night each month, a reservation-only experience offers five or six different pizzas – mostly vegetarian – along with an appetizer, a dessert, and a continuous pour of “sexy Lambrusco.” Much like in Italy, this tasting menu is designed to take diners on an adventure of texture and ingredients. These components range from imported selections to regional specialties, such as Mozzarella di Bufala from Newport’s Mozz, which Giordano considers on par with mozzarella made in Naples.

Giordano’s responses to my seemingly ordinary inquiries about being a chef and living in Providence are existential. This might be a reflection of the Vesuvian heritage – same as Anna’s – that runs through his veins. Those with Vesuvian blood understand better than anyone that an eruption could take their lives at any moment, prompting a philosophy of fully appreciating every present moment. Anna’s: 114 Doyle Avenue, AnnasVesuviano.com

Photography by Erin McGinn

The Slow Turn of Something Special

A new rotisserie and bistro brings Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality

By Jenna Kaplan

They say never judge a book by its cover, and Thermia makes a convincing case. From the outside, the Mediterranean rotisserie and bistro blends into the historic Rising Sun Mills complex in Providence, its industrial brick façade giving little hint of what waits beyond the door. Housed inside a revitalized mill building, the restaurant bridges the city’s industrial past with a modern sensibility that feels grounded and current.

Step inside, and the shift is immediate. Maroon tones wrap the dining room while emerald-green walls behind the bar provide a rich counterpoint, moody and quietly confident. The room hums with conversation, that steady neighborhood buzz signaling you’ve chosen well. Citrus notes and fresh herbs mingle with the aroma of slow-roasted meats, savory but never heavy; and the energy feels effortless rather than staged.

to Providence

Must-Try Items

MACHINE GUN COCKTAIL ($13):

A tasty mix of tequila, lime, chili, celery, and ginger, served in a coupe glass

THERMIA OG CHICKEN ($23):

Herb roasted chicken served with herb-roasted hand-cut potatoes au jus

DUBAI CHEWY COOKIE ($13): A cookie filled with pistachio served split in two, alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream; all over a drizzle of chocolate sauce and kadayif crumbs

Cuisine: Mediterranean rotisserie and sharing plates

Atmosphere: Intimate, romantic, and warmly bustling

by Jenna Kaplan

Hand-cut potatoes surround the signature rotisserie chicken

Since debuting in January, Thermia has earned its place among city dining destinations worthy of a reservation. The menu centers on Mediterranean-inspired rotisserie cooking and time-honored techniques that let balance and depth lead. Olive oil-glossed vegetables, bright spices, and carefully sourced proteins define a lineup designed for lingering.

We began, as one should, with cocktails. On a recent night out, my partner and I settled in with two distinct pours. I opted for the Strawberry Collins, a blend of house-made strawberry compote, lime, Campari, and vodka poured into a martini glass, its frothy top crowned with fresh berries. Bright and refreshing, it struck a playful note. My guest chose the

Machine Gun, a vivid green mix of tequila, lime, chili, celery, and ginger that delivered a crisp sip with subtle heat. Together, the drinks previewed the balance to come.

We started with fried calamari: tender and lightly crisped, served with sliced peppers and bravas sauce which added tomato-based depth without overpowering the seafood. It was a thoughtful opener, flavorful and restrained. Then came the rotisserie. I chose the Thermia OG Chicken, herb-roasted and finished with chicken jus that delivered comfort in every bite. The skin crackled under the knife, revealing tender meat beneath. Hand-cut potatoes arrived golden and ready to soak up every drop of sauce.

As an East Side resident, I know what it takes to make a winning offer , negotiate terms , or get your home ready for market in this neighborhood!

My partner selected the Harissa Chicken, a seasonal special served layered with house-made harissa sauce (think: North African ketchup), that brought gentle warmth and flavor. He swapped the roasted potatoes for hand-cut fries, bronzed and crisp, which were enjoyed immensely. For the table, we split broccoli and cauliflower tossed with confit garlic and chili, a bright counterpoint to the rich rotisserie. The spice built gradually, allowing flavors to shine. We ended with the Dubai Chewy Cookie. Its chocolate exterior gave way to a crunchy pistachio filling, paired with vanilla bean ice cream

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Savoring Rhody

Buzz-worthy cinnamon rolls, chicken sandwiches, and more top this month’s list

By Patty J

Let’s celebrate and do a happy dance because spring is here! And by celebrate, I mean treat ourselves to some stellar bites and sips around the state. Some of these are new and others you may already be familiar with. Whether you go the newbie or classic route, you’re in for something special with any of these house-made items.

Bom Cafe PVD

Rosie Santana’s sunny cafe on Washington Street has a “good vibes only” policy – as stated in pink neon along an Insta-ready wall with two plush pink air chairs – and we’re here for it. Come for the specialty coffee drinks with house-made syrups, stay for the breakfast and lunch fare, like the honey truffle grilled cheese. Everything is mouthwateringly good! Providence

Caf Bar

Married team Ally and Elias Boutros have opened a second Caf Bar location on the first level of the former Wilcox Tavern and it is utterly charming. With three fireplaces, comfy seating and a swell coffee menu, this rustic space is ideal for a mellow breakfast (their bagel and lox is a must try) or meeting a pal for lunch (yes they have sandwiches). Charlestown

Co-Dough

URI grad Courtney Brockwell is the founder of the buzziest bakery this side of the bridge. Find Co-Dough tucked away inside the Market on Broadway with the former Today Show staff assistant making a range of baked goods from sourdough. I’ve sampled the bread, cinnamon buns, and scones, and they’re all outstanding. Pro-tip: Arrive early because stuff sells out. Newport

DM Cafe

Dos Mundos, which translates to “two worlds,” was known for offering an inspired fusion of Cambodian and Guatemalan flavors. In late fall, the business was reintroduced as DM Cafe, and has been serving up donuts crafted in-house daily, straight from the oven, ever since. There are also delish coffee drinks like their cookie butter latte, and hearty sandwiches. Cranston

Greenwood Chicken

I only just found out about Greenwood Chicken, but it’s wildly popular with locals. Andrew Greenwood is at the helm of this year-round food truck on his Greenwood Pastures property. Open daily, find a menu of delish chicken sandwiches, chicken tacos, and do not sleep on their fries. Bonus points for having a self-serve shed for eggs, fresh and frozen chicken and stock, and occasional provisions. Little Compton

Rasa

One of the best Caesar salads I’ve ever eaten was at High Hope Tavern. Open since 2022, and owned by Jason Mendenhall of Endless Hospitality Group, this bar and restaurant is a real pearl in the Downtown Westerly landscape along the Pawcatuck River. Chef Ned Denton proudly serves Rhode Island seafood, there’s a roster of house cocktails, and even a late night menu! Westerly

Part of Chef Sanjiv Dhar’s group of restaurants, which includes Rasoi in Pawtucket and Chaska in Garden City, Rasa brings Indian cuisine to Main Street. I like to begin by sipping a tamarind margarita over tearing into onion and chili naan bread, before digging into an entree of coconut mushroom chicken curry. There’s even a kids menu with pizza made from freshbaked naan and cheese. East Greenwich

Opened in 2018 by restaurateur Dino Passaretta, this enchanting Italian bistro on Centerville Road is a must revisit any season. First off, satisfy those carb cravings with any of their house-made pastas (cacio e pepe for me, please), but save room for dessert because their olive oil cake – served with lemon curd and vanilla gelato and topped with basil and a seasonal compote – is divine. Warwick

In addition to our on-site programs, we have weekly field trips and specials guests! In the past, field trips included the zoo, local parks, museums and more. Special guests have included animal folks, cultural performers, and storytellers.

Squid Game

Savory stuffing turns Rhody’s favorite app into a meal

By Jordyn Zacharias

Most any Rhode Islander worth their weight in sea salt knows that calamari is the official state appetizer. Chances are good you’ve enjoyed it served in the traditional style with a side of marinara sauce and sliced banana peppers at your favorite local eatery. This leveled-up version from the kitchens at Dave’s Fresh Marketplace can easily become an entree courtesy of a savory stuffing that’s not difficult to assemble.

Rhode Island Calamari Ripieni

5 servings

Prep time: 20 minutes, Cook time: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 10 prepared squid tubes

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1lb ground sweet Italian sausage, casing removed

• 2 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1 cup Italian-style panko

• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 roasted red pepper, rough chopped

• ½ tsp salt / ¼ tsp pepper

• Pinch crushed red pepper

TOMATO BASE:

• 1, 15oz can, diced fire-roasted tomatoes

• ¼ cup white wine

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

TOP WITH: Italian-style panko and grated parmesan cheese

GARNISH: Fresh parsley

STEPS

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a bowl combine the diced tomatoes, white wine, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.

3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, garlic, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.

4. Transfer the cooked sausage into a food processor along with the panko, parmesan cheese, roasted red pepper, and spices. Pulse until combined.

5. Carefully stuff each squid with the stuffing mixture, leaving a small space at the top. Secure the ends with toothpicks.

6. Reheat the same skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the stuffed calamari in the skillet, searing each side for 1-2 minutes until they are lightly golden brown.

Submitted: November 2025 March Issue 2026

November, 2023

7. Pour the tomato sauce over the calamari. Sprinkle the tops of each calamari with grated parmesan cheese and panko. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the calamari is cooked through and tender.

8. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving, enjoy!

ABOUT DAVID @runofthemillshop

David Lawlor is an avid filmmaker and documentarian who lives in Providence, with an interest in telling the stories of places undergoing transformation and historic mill buildings.

Guiding You Home From the Coast to the Capital