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Department of Environmental Management

The Good Trade Makers Market 2021, photo by Carly Rae Brunault
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News Bites: Local Agriculture and Seafood Act Grants Now Open / The Good Trade Makers Market Returns / Branchfood Launches RI Operations / BEATNIC Offering BOGO for Beginning of World Vegan Month

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

Gov. McKee, Legislative Leaders, Dem Announce $700,000 Program Funding To Support Food And Seafood Businesses

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

Governor Dan McKee, leaders of the Rhode Island General Assembly, and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announce that $700,000 in Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) programming funding is available to help new and existing food businesses grow and flourish. Enacted in 2012 to “support and develop more robust and self-sustaining agricultural and seafood sectors,” LASA is an important catalyst in strengthening the local food system. Since its enactment 10 years ago, LASA has provided more than $1.4 million through individual program grants up to $20,000.

“The 2022 Local Agriculture and Seafood Act grants support projects that help with the entry, growth, and sustainability of small or starting green sector businesses, with a particular focus on supporting a diversity of foods and food producers,” said Governor McKee. “LASA is a pillar of our food strategy through which Rhode Island is investing to provide consistent access to safe, healthy, affordable food.”

“The Local Agriculture and Seafood Act has always been about being firmly committed to our constituents and sending the message that we are 100 percent behind local businesses,” said Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski, the Senate sponsor of LASA. “Local food gets from farm to table in fresher condition and means fewer trucks on the road, which means less air pollution. LASA encourages more people to eat more local food. This means better health for Rhode Islanders and our environment.”

“In the 10 years since LASA’s inception, a broad and diverse array of businesses and organizations have benefitted from grants including farmers’ markets, family farms, urban agricultural initiatives, oyster growers, cider makers, and dozens of others,” said Rep. Deborah Ruggiero, LASA’s House sponsor. “I am thrilled to see the level of support going into the next round of program grant funding and look forward to seeing how recipients use it to make Rhode Island’s food system more resilient and sustainable.”

“The fiscal 2023 budget was a product of true collaboration between the House, the Senate, and the Administration, and the House is particularly proud to have helped expand the program funding of the LASA grants to an historically high level,” said House Finance Committee Chairman Marvin Abney. “From Newport to North Smithfield, seafood and agriculture are staples of Rhode Island and investing in them by investing in small producers will boost our whole food economy.”

“Small businesses are the cornerstone of the Rhode Island economy, and agriculture and seafood businesses are the backbone of our food system. This significant investment in the LASA program championed by Senator Sosnowski will enhance the great work it does to support Ocean State food producers, strengthen our local food system, and help address food insecurity in our state,” said Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ryan W. Pearson.

“DEM is always working to get more home-grown food on the table and by supporting local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses, the LASA grants help achieve this,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “Growing local and eating local, fresh, sustainable food minimizes transportation costs, reduces carbon emissions, and boosts the local economy while providing the freshest product possible to the consumer.”

The 2022 programming funding priorities include:

  • Supporting the entry, growth, and sustainability of small or beginning agriculture producers and fishers.
  • Supporting agriculture producers and fishers that are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
  • Supporting the development of new marketing, promotion, sales, and/or distribution channels.
  • Supporting the development of new products, including value-added processing capacity.
  • Fostering new cooperatives, partnerships, and/or collaborations among Rhode Island agriculture producers and fishers and supporting organizations.
  • Fostering and building capacity for markets connecting local farms and fishers with Rhode Island’s food insecure communities.
  • Protecting the future availability of agricultural land for producers, including farm transition planning and implementation, and assisting with on farm food safety improvements, including the developing of Food Safety Modernization Act and hazard analysis critical control point standards.

During the 2021 grant program, DEM awarded $250,000 of programming funding in LASA grants to 12 recipients. Eligible entities include for-profit farmers, fishers, producer groups, and non-profit organizations. Applicants must be based in Rhode Island and only small and/or beginning farmers, or producer groups of small or beginning farmers, are eligible to apply for capital grants. Aquaculture operators are considered farmers in the LASA program. 

For more information on the LASA Grant program, please visit DEM’s website. Applications should be completed online via the State of Rhode Island Grant’s Management System by Nov. 30, 2022 at 11:59 PM. Grant-related questions should be directed to Ananda Fraser, Chief Program Development in DEM’s Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment at 401-222-2781 or via email to DEM.LASA@dem.ri.gov.

DEM continues to work across many fronts to benefit and strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and to assist local farmers and fishers in growing their businesses. There are more than 1,000 farms sprinkled across the state and Rhode Island is home to a thriving young farmer network. DEM continues to make investments in critical infrastructure as well as provide farm incubation space to new farmers through its Urban Edge Farm and Snake Den Farm properties. The state’s food scene is often cited as an area of economic strength ripe for innovation and growth. Already, the local food industry supports 60,000 jobs, and the state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy annually.

For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates.

The Good Trade Makers Market Returns to WaterFire Arts Center

The large-scale community shopping experience brings nearly 100 independent makers under one roof in Providence for a two-day celebration of creatives and tradespeople.

The Good Trade Makers Market 2021, photo by Carly Rae Brunault
The Good Trade Makers Market 2021, photo by Carly Rae Brunault

The Good Trade Makers Market will return to Providence, RI on November 19-20, 2022. This annual event gathers nearly 100 independent makers and small manufacturers of home decor, art, apothecary products, apparel, accessories, and more from all over the country for a weekend-long community shopping experience at WaterFire Arts Center (475 Valley Street, Providence, RI).

“What’s unique about The Good Trade is that we’re not only showcasing the amazing artisans, makers, and manufacturers who are based here in Rhode Island, but we are also welcoming businesses from 11 other states and introducing them to our little city during the weekend,” said event organizer BJ Mansuetti. “Rhode Islanders have long been committed to shopping small, and we believe that creating an inclusive space for creatives to come together before the holidays and sell their handcrafted goods provides an important boost to the local economy.”

Last year’s event brought in 5,000 shoppers from across New England and generated an estimated $300,000 in revenue for participating small businesses over the course of the weekend. “The community response to the event has been overwhelmingly positive, both from the vendor and shopper perspective. In 2021, vendors shared moving personal stories with our team about the life-changing support they received from shoppers, which was especially meaningful after an extremely difficult couple of years for small businesses,” added Mansuetti.

“With a return to live in person events in 2021, The Good Trade Market was such a great success for the art and maker community in New England, driving a much-needed revenue boost for so many small businesses around the holiday season,” said Peter A. Mello, managing director and co-CEO of WaterFire Providence. “We can’t wait to welcome them back to the WaterFire Arts Center again this year. It’s an event that we’re always excited about and look forward to hosting for many years to come.”

The Good Trade will also be bringing back the popular “Plinko for a Cause” this year. A large, interactive fundraising game where shoppers can donate $5 to play to win prizes provided by The Good Trade and their vendors. This year, 100% of the funds donated will benefit The Steel Yard’s Workforce Training Program, a job-readiness initiative that teaches industry safety standards and a wide range of metalworking skills to prepare community members for a career in metalworking.

Advance tickets for The Good Trade are available now for $7 in advance (advance sales end at midnight on November 18th ) and $10 at the door at goodtrademakersmarket.com. Ticket price include a beverage from our sponsors, including a small beer from Proclamation Ale or Trinity Brewhouse, a small cocktail from The Industrious Spirit Company, a small hot coffee from New Harvest Coffee Roasters, an iced tea from Grany Squibb’s Iced Tea, or a small ice cream from Gather Farm.  Other sponsors include Trinity Beer Garden, Gather Glass, Yelp, and Swamp Yankee Art.

Visit @goodtrademakersmarket on Instagram for daily giveaways from now through November 18th.

The Good Trade Makers Market
November 19 & 20, 2022
Noon to 6pm
WaterFire Arts Center
475 Valley St.
Providence, RI 02908
More info and tickets: goodtrademakersmarket.com/tickets

Branchfood Launches Rhode Island Operations

Global Food Innovation Platform Celebrates Expansion into the Ocean State

More than 80 food and industry leaders today celebrated the expansion of Branchfood, a global food innovation launchpad, into Rhode Island. First established in Massachusetts in 2015, Branchfood will support stage-two food and beverage startups, foodtech, and agtech companies in the state through a comprehensive set of services including curated events, connections to investors, shared workspaces, and advisory support.

“At Branchfood, we bring food founders and leaders together with corporate partners, investors, and experts to create a platform for collaboration and provide strategic advice to help the sector grow and thrive,” said Branchfood Founder and CEO Lauren Abda. “We are thrilled to expand this work into Rhode Island, where we hope to bolster the state’s already rich food ecosystem to help solve the food industry’s most pressing challenges while also positioning Rhode Island to become an internationally-recognized food innovation leader.”

Earlier this year, Branchfood received funding from a Rhode Island Commerce Network Match Grant to assist Rhode Island’s food-related businesses to grow, scale, and lead the future of the food industry.

“Rhode Island is committed to building a strong local food economy and we see enormous potential for homegrown food entrepreneurs and established innovative food companies to find success in our state,” said Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. “Partners such as Branchfood are critical in helping us achieve this vision by supporting and connecting high-growth potential companies to strategic resources as they land and expand in Rhode Island.”

As part of this effort, Branchfood is partnering with the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) Providence, which will provide workspace, event venues, and marketing, as well as connections to a robust network of industry professionals and entrepreneurs.

“Innovation is our era’s answer to solving the world’s problems, and CIC supports innovation with every partnership we forge and every business we support,” said Tim Rowe, founder and CEO of CIC. “We’re proud and excited to work with Branchfood to not only grow and strengthen the economy, but also to increase opportunities for entrepreneurs and ultimately tackle complex challenges like food security and food waste.”

Branchfood has successfully supported more than 800 food founders across the region and globally and works with both start-ups and established global food corporations in the consumer products, agricultural, and tech spaces, as well as leading academic institutions and governments. To date, Branchfood’s sister company, Branch Venture Group, has invested more than $3.3M in 15 early-stage food startups.

The celebration kicked off with a panel discussion with some of the state’s most renowned food pioneers, including Lisa Raiola, president and founder of Hope and Main; Todd Blount, president of Blount Fine Foods; and Nicolas Warren, Branch Venture Group Angel Investor. Following the panel, attendees sampled food and drinks and engaged with entrepreneurs at a startup showcase that highlighted 10 local companies, such as Westerly’s Granny Squibb, Barrington’s Big Picture Foods, and Providence’s goTeff.

“We are thrilled to have Branchfood join the food ecosystem in Rhode Island,” said Lisa Raiola, founder and president of food incubator Hope & Main. “Branchfood’s services will advance and accelerate the work that we’ve been doing since 2014 to cultivate a thriving and resilient local food economy. The hundreds of food founders that incubate their start-ups at Hope & Main will find vital support to help them scale to the next level in Rhode Island and the region as Branchfood brings their marketing and manufacturing expertise along with food-focused sources of capital.”

Branchfood’s work in the Ocean State continues on October 6, with a session called the “Ins and Outs” of Scaling a Food Business in Rhode Island, followed by programs including Branchfood’s signature event, Community Table, and financing and investment opportunities for startups and investors in Rhode Island. Additionally, Branchfood and the Cambridge Innovation Center will begin welcoming entrepreneurs and food teams to the 225 Dyer Street location to work and collaborate later this fall. Learn more about Branchfood at branchfood.com and branchventuregroup.com.

World Vegan Month is More Fun with a Friend . . . That’s why BEATNIC is offering a buy one, get one, offer to kick off World Vegan Month!

Did you know that you don’t need to be vegan to enjoy vegan food? Well, of course you did 🙂 but did you know that 90% of plant-based food consumers are not vegan or vegetarian? 

Come and join the trend this November with Beatnic’s BOGO offering – you and a friend can enjoy a BUY 1 GET 1 FREE meal from November 1st to November 8th at all Beatnic locations in NYC, Providence, and Boston

Formerly By Chloe, Beatnic provides high quality, fast casual, vegan food, with a little something for everyone including their Guac Burger, Chicky Dippers, and seasonal menu items like their Loaded Shroom Chili or Truffle Melt.

The best part? You won’t have to feel guilty going back for seconds. Even swapping just one meal a week can positively impact the environment and your health (see below). 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

  • Diets of meat eaters create 7x the greenhouse gas emissions and use 10x the amount of water compared to the diets of vegans
  • A plant-based diet requires only one third of the land needed to support a meat and dairy diet. 
  • The vast amount of grain feed required for meat production is a significant contributor to deforestation, habitat loss and species extinction

HEALTH BENEFITS 

  • More input of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, etc, provide more fiber and antioxidants to the body
  • Eating a low fat, high fiber vegan diet could lead to greater weight loss
  • Eating vegan can lower one’s risk of diabetes and certain cancers

ETHICAL CONSCIOUSNESS

  • Animals required for a meat diet are kept in overcrowded unethical conditions and are eventually slaughtered

Instructions:

  • Sign up using the link: https://signup.thanx.com/bychloe/worldveganmonth
  • Download the app and sign in
  • See the reward “free entree for a friend when you buy one!” 
  • Visit any Beatnic store, and redeem the reward at the register
  • To redeem, you must order one entree (salad, burger, sandwich) with both parties physically present to then redeem another entree for free

Terms and conditions:

  • Must redeem in store. Beatnic team member to swipe reward in app at the register to redeem.
  • Both parties must be physically present at the register.
  • Must purchase one entree to get the second of lower cost free.
  • Limit one per customer.
  • Must be an active Beatnic account holder or download the Beatnic app using the following link (https://signup.thanx.com/bychloe/worldveganmonth) to join our loyalty program to redeem.
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ISCO Blue Velvet Bourbon with Glass and Palm, photo by Rachel Hulin
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: The Return of ISCO’s Blue Velvet Bourbon / Basil & Bunny Opens in Bristol / General Stanton Inn Reopens / Introducing Land & Sea Together / Neon Marketplace Launches “Pizza Twos-day”

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

The Industrious Spirit Company Announces the Return of Blue Velvet Bourbon

ISCO Blue Velvet Bourbon with Glass and Palm, photo by Rachel Hulin
ISCO Blue Velvet Bourbon with Glass and Palm, photo by Rachel Hulin

Today, The Industrious Spirit Company (ISCO) announced that their Blue Velvet Bourbon will rejoin their spirits line up of Ostreida Oyster Vodka, Structural Vodka, Ornamental Gin and Patina Bourbon Barrel Aged Gin. The company’s initial experimental run of Blue Velvet was released in January 2021 and sold out in mere hours, now the wait for more is finally over.

“We are proud to bring back Blue Velvet Bourbon,” said Dan Neff and Eric Olson, Head Distillers at ISCO. “This continues to be a very special project for us. While good things take time, and bourbon generally ages for at least two years (as will most of ours), the unique nature of the corns that we used for this special project has allowed us to create something youthful yet fully expressive, showing off our passion for flavor. Our favorite way to enjoy Blue Velvet is sipped neat or on the rocks.”

This unique bourbon is created from 100% blue corn using a blend of two very special and distinct varieties—an organic strain of indigo developed in Kentucky and a landrace blue variety from Oaxaca, Mexico (“landrace” indicates a plant grown in its original region with a nearly identical genetic makeup to its wild ancestor). After being cooked and fermented (fun fact: blue corn turns pink when you ferment it due to a pH change!), ISCO carefully distills this bourbon in small batches before resting it in charred new oak barrels for six to twelve months “to taste”— their goal is to ensure the corns’ flavors remain the star of the show. A unique marriage of cultures and places, Blue Velvet boasts heaps of caramel, chocolate and vanilla flavors and a signature note of blue corn tortillas. Bottled at a whopping 100 proof to preserve the rich flavors and robust mouthfeel, it lingers for a lasting finish of toast and oak—a bourbon you won’t soon forget!

In celebration of Blue Velvet, ISCO will kick off a weekend of events beginning on Thursday, September 15 with a raucous-yet-refined VIP launch party from 5-10pm. Tickets can be pre-purchased for this beautiful evening that will include passed hors d’oeurves and luxurious bites highlighting local food producers from The East End, the opportunity to sample some as-of-yet unreleased spirits, access to tours and a raffle ticket to be entered to win a very special artist-made, one-of-a-kind Blue Velvet Bourbon bathrobe and two opulent handcrafted Blue Velvet tasseled pillows!

While ISCO created significantly more Blue Velvet than for its first release last year, this second release will certainly also sell out. First bottles will be available for purchase at the distillery that evening and over the following days.

The weekend continues with raffle sales ($3 each) throughout the weekend and culminates on Sunday, September 18 with a free, open-to-the public party from 12pm – 6pm, featuring live music by Da Huey X, food by Durks and a photobooth.

ISCO is deeply invested in creating beautiful, delicious products that tell stories about where they come from. In honor of Blue Velvet’s mash bill that blends organic blue corn from the US with a landrace blue corn from Mexico, proceeds from the raffle will be split between The American Farmland Trust https://farmland.org/about/, an organization that works to protect agricultural land, promote environmentally sound farming practices and to keep farmers on the land, and Fundación Tortilla, https://fundaciontortilla.org/nosotros, a Mexican nonprofit organization that promotes corn as a fundamental element of the culture, nutrition and economic development of Mexico via educational programs, policy reform and direct work to improve biodiversity of Mexican maize.

The Industrious Spirit Company distillery is located in the Valley neighborhood of Providence along the city’s former “Industrial Corridor.” Their production space and tasting room were once part of Providence Steel & Iron, a business that produced structural and ornamental steel for nearly 100 years. ISCO is proud to carry on this tradition of creation.

Basil & Bunny Now Open in Bristol

Basil & Bunny

Basil & Bunny, comfort food inspired by multicultural flavors and 100% plant-based, is now open at their new location at Unity Park, 500 Wood Street in Bristol. Opening hours are currently Wednesdays through Fridays from 4 – 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 12 – 8 p.m., with plans to expand those hours moving forward. Their full menu is posted at basilandbunny.com and online ordering is available during open hours at basilandbunny.square.site. Watch for news of a grand opening celebration in September.

Basil & Bunny Dining Room

The General Stanton Inn has reopened its historic doors after a multimillion-dollar renovation

Following a 10-year hiatus, the historic General Stanton Inn is inviting diners back inside. New owners David and Jackie Moore are pleased to announce that the renovation and restoration of the inn’s tavern and dining rooms are complete. The General Stanton Inn reopened for dining on Wednesday, August 17.

“As a Narragansett native and University of Rhode Island graduate, I thought it was very important to protect the original colonial character and integrity of this historic Charlestown landmark, which first entertained guests in 1740,” said David Moore. “While we preserved the architecture, the building needed a major overhaul. The inn now features a state-of-the art kitchen to accommodate weddings and banquets, a refurbished fine dining restaurant and a remodeled, and very comfortable, tavern bar.” 

Located at 4115 Old Post Road in Charlestown, the General Stanton Inn rests on an old 6.78-acre horse farm, which still has original stone walls. The inn was once a gathering place between Philadelphia and Boston during the Revolutionary War, and it’s believed to have hosted George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette and Alexander Hamilton. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Chester Arthur were also guests of the inn.

In the Roaring 1920s, a fine dining room was added as popularity of the General Stanton Inn as a Prohibition-era speakeasy and gambling house grew. Al Capone, Diamond Jim Brady and notorious actress Tallulah Bankhead were some of the more famous guests who partied in Gatsby-like fashion into the wee hours. 

“As we renovated the formal dining room, I was drawn to the original coffered ceilings and art deco chandeliers of the period,” said Jackie Moore. “We’ve preserved that 1920s’ feel and enhanced the room with candlelight and a new sound system, which will feature soft jazz like Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. We want our guests to have a memorable evening as they enjoy a white table setting, great food and fine wines.” 

The tavern will be open from 5-10 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. Beginning this September, the fine dining room will be open. Sunday brunch will be served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a traditional New England Sunday Supper, which will be served until 7 p.m.

Guests can make online reservations and preview the dining menu at thegeneralstantoninn.com or call 401-364-8888.  
Contact Sarah at events@thegeneralstantoninn.com to book weddings, banquets and large parties. The inn guest rooms will reopen later this fall.

Introducing Land & Sea Together: A Network to Support Farmers, Fisheries, and Forestry Businesses and Workers in RI

The Center for Mediation and Collaboration RI, in partnership with RI-DEM,with the support of over 25 other industry organizations, aims to reducestressors facing our food and forest producersthrough the new program, Land & Sea Together.

Land & Sea Together is a collaborative network of services and opportunities, aimed at reducing stress and building personal and financial resilience in the fisheries, forestry, and farming communities in Rhode Island. These professionals tend our land and sea, and are the core of our natural resources sector here in the state. But workers in these fields often face challenging and unpredictable conditions with limited support. From labor shortages to injuries, from price fluctuations to severe weather conditions, these jobs can be devastatingly hard. And folks are feeling the stress across the nation.

Individuals in these three industries AND their families now have access to a local Employee Assistance Program, Coastline EAP, through their help line 1-800-445-1195.

By calling this help line, workers AND their families can receive:

  • Immediate, unlimited contact with Coastline EAP’s Masters’ level, professional staff via a toll-free helpline (1-800-445-1195)
  • Up to 12 FREE sessions with a mental health treatment provider
  • 24 hours/day, 365 days/year crisis support. Assessment and crisis support for aAfull spectrum of work/life challenges offered the same or next business day
  • Unlimited follow-up and support services
  • Consultation for legal, financial, eldercare, childcare, nutrition, career, andAconvenience resources
  • Qualified referral to most effective helping resources in terms of expertise,Alocation, cost and availability
  • Over 100 pre-recorded webinars and 60 skills courses (with certifications) onAwww.coastlineeap.com and live monthly wellness sessions
  • Monthly newsletter in English and Spanish

Individuals in these industries can also apply for micro grant funding until October 15th, 2022 through a simple application to receive up to $500 of support towards the following services:

  • Childcare or Eldercare Assistance
  • Business Development Services (Succession, Tax, Financial, Legal)
  • Wellness Services & Trainings
  • Equipment or Vehicle Repair Services (labor only)
  • Veterinary Services

Always free through Land & Sea Together and CMCRI:

  • Mediation Services
  • Comprehensive Industry Resource Guides

For more information contact program director Laurel Witri
Land & Sea Together, a program of the Center for Mediation and Collaboration RI info@landandseatogether.org

Forget Taco Tuesday – Neon Marketplace Launches ‘Pizza Twos-day’

For a limited time, customers can pick up any two Roman-style pizzas for $15.00 every Tuesday

Supreme Pizza
Supreme Pizza

Neon Marketplace, the newest, most innovative and elevated brand in the convenience store industry, with locations in Warwick, Rhode Island and Seekonk, Massachusetts and express locations in Middletown and Portsmouth, Rhode Island, is pleased to announce ‘Pizza Twos-day,’ when customers can pick-up any two of Neon’s Roman-style specialty pizzas topped with house-made sauce and Neon’s signature three-cheese blend for just $15.00 at the Warwick and Seekonk locations. 

Each pizza feeds three-to-four people and makes for a perfect, hot and fresh dinner for busy families on-the-go, or a perfect lunch at the office. The offer is valid on cheese, pepperoni or any of the signature pies. Additional toppings may be added for an additional fee.

Developed in conjunction with James Beard award-winning chef and restaurateur Michael Schlow, Neon’s artisan hand-pressed pizza pies are baked light and fluffy onsite in Neon’s traditional brick ovens. Each hand-crafted pizza pie starts with dough that is proofed for several hours to give it a light and airy texture, and is then baked in Neon’s brick ovens. Customers can order a variety of set toppings or completely customize their pies for a fast, hot, delicious pizza experience to enjoy in Neon’s café or to take on the road.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Buffalo Chicken Pizza

In addition to cheese, pepperoni, meat lovers, supreme and margherita, Neon’s specialty pizzas are also available in BBQ chicken, buffalo chicken, Hawaiian, white-hot honey chicken, and pesto sausage. The build-your-own toppings include pepperoni, Italian sausage, grilled chicken, ham, bacon, tomatoes, onions, banana peppers, black olives, roasted red bell peppers, pineapple, jalapeños, hot honey, and oregano. Sauces include marinara, alfredo, pesto, buffalo, BBQ and ranch. 

Neon Marketplace also offers a full array of breakfast options, including pastries, freshly made-to-order egg sandwiches, artisan coffee and lattes; hand-made grinders and sandwiches; a variety of salads; snacks; all-natural lemonade and fresh-brewed iced tea, fountain, and cooler drinks. 

Neon Marketplace caters to today’s modern traveler by delivering a uniquely refreshing and stylish experience designed to create loyal customers. Neon locations are targeted to areas where the convenience store customer is currently underserved and in areas where growing populations and/or business growth has resulted in increased vehicle traffic and consumer demand.

Follow Neon Marketplace on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to learn more about the growing brand.

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The Ocean State Coalition
chefs & restaurantsfarmsnews

News Bites: RI DEM License for Direct Seafood Sales / Ocean State Coalition Letter to Diners / Delta Dental “Share a Smile” Restaurant Gift Card Campaign

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

New Temporary License Allows Commercial Fishermen To Sell Certain Types Of Seafood Directly To Consumers, Retailers

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

To help foster the continued viability of the Rhode Island commercial seafood industry during the COVID-19 public health crisis, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has enacted a new, no-cost Direct Sale Dealer License. It authorizes commercial fishermen in Rhode Island to sell certain species of finfish, and to sell and transport for sale live lobsters and crabs, directly to consumers and licensed seafood retailers from the vessel on which they were harvested.

“There is a growing demand for local seafood during this critical time, and we’re fortunate that our commercial harvesters are able to meet the needs of residents with the abundant seafood resources available off our coast,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “Rhode Islanders can take pride in knowing that when they purchase fresh local seafood, at local retailers or right off the boat from harvesters, they are helping to keep a vital part of our economy – our commercial fishing and seafood industry – up and running.”

The new license, enacted via an emergency regulation filed on April 17, helps address the economic hardships facing the RI commercial fishing and seafood industry, as well as food insecurities facing many RI consumers, caused by the COVID-19 crisis. The new direct-sale opportunity supports the development of new, local supply chains for RI seafood. As an emergency regulation, the measure will remain in effect for up to 120 days.

DEM developed the emergency regulation in close collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH). It preserves the existing rules for molluscan shellfish and certain species of finfish that require special handling, which must continue to be sold by harvesters to licensed seafood wholesalers.

Under the new Direct Sale Dealer License, finfish species subject to direct sale include any legally harvested species, except striped bass, and except all “histamine-producing” finfish species, which are listed in the regulation.  For eligible species of finfish, the new license authorizes their dockside sale directly to consumers and licensed retail establishments, such as seafood markets and restaurants. Examples of eligible finfish species include: summer flounder, black sea bass, scup, tautog, monkfish, hake, haddock, cod, winter flounder, weakfish, dogfish, skate, and butterfish.

While dockside sales of live lobsters and crabs to consumers have been allowed for many years, and remain authorized under the existing dockside sales endorsement, the new Direct Sale Dealer License extends this opportunity to include dockside sales to retail establishments, as well as the transport and sale of live lobsters and crabs to consumers and retailers.

The new license is available, at no cost, to resident commercial fishermen in RI licensed to harvest finfish and/or crustaceans.  Upon obtaining the new license, fishermen may engage in direct sales, subject to several requirements governing harvest, handling, reporting, and sale activities. The requirements include:

  • All direct sales must strictly adhere to all applicable health and safety directives governing customer-facing food businesses, including social distancing, preventing customers from congregating at or near the point of sale, and the wearing of face coverings. Drive-up dockside sales are strongly encouraged – and required in Galilee.
  • All direct-sale activities must be conducted in a manner consistent with applicable municipal laws, as well as applicable regulations and polices governing port and marina operations.
  • Direct sales of finfish are applicable only to whole fish, fish that are headed/gutted, or live fish. Direct sales are applicable only to fish that have been caught/harvested the same day. While on board the vessel, all fish must be kept shaded, cooled, and/or on ice.
  • Lobsters and crabs must be kept shaded and cooled and must be alive at point of sale.
  • For all species subject to sale pursuant to the new Dealer License, strict reporting requirements must be met.  Harvester reports must be completed in full and be available for inspection prior to any species being sold. In addition, all sales must be reported to DEM in accordance with standard electronic dealer reporting requirements.

DEM had developed detailed guidance governing authorization and use of the new license, including best practices to keep fishermen, their crew, and their customers healthy and safe during direct-sale activities. The guidance is available here: http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/marine-fisheries/commercial-reporting.php

Applications for the new license may be submitted electronically, via this link: http://www.dem.ri.gov/directsales.

The emergency regulations are available here: https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/250-90-00-15

DEM advises everyone to follow guidance about COVID-19 from Governor Raimondo and RIDOH. More information about COVID-19 and Rhode Island’s response can be found here: https://health.ri.gov/diseases/ncov2019/

The Ocean State Coalition

To Our Guests,

On behalf of the hundreds of restaurants across the state of Rhode Island please let us begin by saying we deeply miss seeing you. Our daily lives have changed so much in the last two months since restaurants in our state were ordered closed for dining in. The restaurant business is not simply about the meal, wine or your favorite cocktail. It is more about romance, family, friendships, creating memories, and the ability to bring us all together as a community.

Restaurants support a tremendous amount of small, as well as large, businesses through our daily needs. Up to 90% of the money independent restaurants earn goes right back into our communities, through payroll, vendors, rent and many more services. We know how much our restaurants are loved in Rhode Island as we have the most restaurants per capita nationwide. We offer a diverse, vibrant and delicious culinary scene that has become world renowned.

The restaurant industry has been one of the most severely impacted by the closures related to Covid-19. We have done all that has been asked of us to help flatten the curve. Many of us are now doing all we can to get by while helping our team members and our community at the same time. Takeout, delivery, and outdoor seating with reduced capacities will not sustain us for long.

We are one of the most regulated industries for health standards and our goal has always been to exceed those standards for our guests. For this reason, we are asking you our guests to support us in our request for opening indoor dining by June 1, 2020. The very existence of what our restaurant community will look like depends on us being more creative than ever now. However, we must be allowed this opportunity to serve you to the best of our abilities within the new restrictions from the Department of Health.

All of us love what we do. The memories we have shared and created with all of you is the core of our being. We are ready to welcome you back in a safe, comfortable, enjoyable and delicious way.

Download the PDF of the letter and view the over 200 signed restaurants (this PDF will be updated as more restaurants sign on):

The Ocean State Coalition letter To Our Guests

Delta Dental of Rhode Island launches ‘Share a Smile’ campaign to spread positivity and support local restaurants

When we think about what makes us smile, a meal with family and friends at one of Rhode Island’s great local restaurants often tops the list. And while COVID-19 prevents us from doing that right now, Delta Dental of Rhode Island has launched a new way to support your favorite local restaurant and treat yourself and your family to something delicious.

The company’s new #Share a Smile campaign asks Rhode Islanders to share the names of restaurants that make them smile for a chance to win a $50 gift card to the Rhode Island restaurant of their choice. Here’s how to enter:

  • Go to the Delta Dental of Rhode Island Facebook page and look for the #Share a Smile post of the week. 
  • Comment on the post and tag your favorite Rhode Island restaurant

All commenters who tag a Rhode Island restaurant are entered into a random drawing for a $50 gift card to the restaurant they’ve tagged. Delta Dental will randomly select multiple winners each week during this campaign. In total, Delta Dental of Rhode Island’s efforts in 2020 will provide Rhode Island restaurants with more than $20,000 of support. 

“We’re so proud of the positivity we see throughout Rhode Island, and we developed this campaign to honor and encourage that positivity while supporting our local restaurants, who are critical to the state’s economy,” said Joseph R. Perroni, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Rhode Island. “For a company dedicated to supporting healthy smiles, encouraging people to share theirs and to share their love for local restaurants was a natural fit.”

“The Rhode Island business community benefits when we pull together to support each other, and we are excited to see all the creative ways that businesses are supporting each other to mitigate financial impacts of this crisis.,” Perroni said.

Learn more about the #Share a Smile campaign by visiting https://smile.deltadentalri.com. For a roundup of weekly winners, follow Delta Dental of Rhode Island on Facebook at @Delta Dental of RI.

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A family tradition: Melissa Breene Jordan and her husband, Matt Jordan run the 50-cow milking operation at Breene Hollow Farm. / DEM photo
farmsnewswine & drinks

News Bites: Farm Fresh RI Receives Grant / RI Outstanding Dairy Farm 2018 / Sons of Liberty Beer & Spirits Co. Wins Beer Award

by David Dadekian
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

$4.6M Grant to Farm Fresh RI a Big Win for New England’s Food System

Courtesy Farm Fresh Rhode Island
Courtesy Farm Fresh Rhode Island

This week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) announced a $4,628,765 grant awarded to local nonprofit Farm Fresh RI to expand its work increasing access to fresh, locally grown foods across New England. For Rhode Islanders who receive federal food assistance in the form of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, this means more dollars to spend on fresh food. The grant is being used to increase Farm Fresh RI’s existing Bonus Bucks nutrition incentives program to offer an impressive 100% match for SNAP users at select Rhode Island farmers markets, CSAs, and farm stands — doubling the purchasing power of low-income Rhode Islanders to buy more nutritious foods and re-investing those federal dollars into the Rhode Island economy by directly supporting local growers and food businesses. As impactful as this one-to-one match is for the Ocean State, the grant has wide-reaching benefits across the New England region. Marking a new chapter in Farm Fresh RI’s work out of state, the grant now empowers Farm Fresh RI to support the nutrition incentives programs offered by Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont as well, through the creation of the New England Nutrition Incentive Collaborative (NENIC).

“We are very pleased that we were able to receive this funding, and support two key constituencies: local growers and our neighbors in need of nutrition assistance.” said Sheri Griffin, Co-Executive Director of Farm Fresh RI. “This connection is at the core of our mission. We are also very excited to support our colleagues across New England who are partners on this ambitious project.”

The grant awarded to Farm Fresh RI, administered by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) program and authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill, is the largest of 24 grants totaling $21M awarded nationwide by the USDA this week.

“Fresh, nutritious, and locally grown fruits and vegetables should be accessible to everybody, and I’m glad to see the USDA provide Farm Fresh RI the funding for this project,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed. In May, Senator Reed wrote a letter to the USDA in support of Farm Fresh RI’s grant application. “The incentives NENIC will provide to encourage the purchase of healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables at farmers markets lead to healthier lifestyles for SNAP recipients while at the same time boosting our state’s agricultural economy. This is truly a win-win for Rhode Island. I congratulate Farm Fresh RI for receiving this funding, and I will continue my work to ensure that all Rhode Islanders have greater access to nutritious and affordable foods.”

Farmers markets play an important role in increasing the availability and accessibility of local foods. They offer more places for local farmers and producers to sell their products, and invite the local community to gather over a variety of fresh foods in their own neighborhoods. In summertime, over 40 farmers markets across Rhode Island not only provide eaters with a reliable source for nutritious, locally sourced options but help build community, protect greenspace, and grow the potential for job creation in Rhode Island by directing food dollars to marketplaces that support local farms and food businesses. Nutrition incentives, like Farm Fresh RI’s Bonus Bucks and the similar programs offered by other NENIC states, enable a greater percentage of the community to take part — putting fresh, local foods within reach by making the healthy choice an easier choice for people with limited food budgets.

“In some low-income neighborhoods, Farm Fresh Rhode Island markets are the only place where reasonably priced fruits and vegetables are sold,” said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse.  “This significant federal grant will help more families use SNAP benefits at local farmers markets to put fresh, healthy food on the table.”

For many people across New England, nutrition incentives make the critical difference in being able to shop for fresh food at farmers markets. In 2017, 29 weekly farmers markets in Rhode Island accepted SNAP, impacting sales for 78 farms and 65 locally owned food producers. At these markets, Rhode Islanders spent over $105,000 in SNAP dollars, which went to local food businesses, and Farm Fresh RI distributed over $70,000 in Bonus Bucks nutrition incentives to families enrolled in SNAP and WIC programs in Rhode Island. With this new FINI grant, NENIC hopes to reach over 20,000 consumers at over 250 outlets across New England.

“As a SNAP participant and farmers market staff, I experience the benefits from both sides of the table,” explained Tara, a customer and employee at the Coastal Growers Market at Casey Farm in Saunderstown, RI. “Bonus Bucks enables me to purchase about 90% of my groceries from local growers and food artisans at the only place I want to shop: farmers markets. Educating the public about this incentives program and seeing the range of emotions it elicits—from surprise to excitement to deep gratitude—affirms my continuing dedication to increasing food access for all.”

To locate the many farmers markets in RI that accept SNAP and provide Bonus Bucks, community members can use the search tool provided by Farm Fresh RI at www.farmfreshri.org/ebt.

Breene Hollow Farm in West Greenwich Named 2018 Outstanding Rhode Island Dairy Farm

A family tradition: Melissa Breene Jordan and her husband, Matt Jordan run the 50-cow milking operation at Breene Hollow Farm. / DEM photo
A family tradition: Melissa Breene Jordan and her husband, Matt Jordan run the 50-cow milking operation at Breene Hollow Farm. / DEM photo

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced that Breene Hollow Farm in West Greenwich has been named Rhode Island’s 2018 Outstanding Dairy Farm by the Rhode Island Green Pastures Committee of which DEM is a member.

“Rhode Island has a rich agricultural heritage and it’s important to recognize farmers who through business acumen, innovation, and long hard hours are contributing so much to our food supply, the economy, and their families and communities,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo.

“Breene Hollow Farm is one of our state’s finest dairy farms and is most deserving of this special recognition,” said DEM Chief of Agriculture Ken Ayars. “Rhode Island has become a destination for agriculture and food tourism and food-related business incubation. Dairy farming, however, has experienced a decline in recent years in Rhode Island – as elsewhere nationally.  This award program shines an important light on the value of dairy farming to our state. Kudos to Breene Hollow Farm and the Green Pastures Committee for their commitment to the viability of this important local industry.”

DEM continues to work across many fronts to strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and to promote local agriculture. The state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy each year. And local agriculture continues to be an area ripe for growth – with the number of farms in Rhode Island on the rise and a growing young farmer network. Breene Hollow Farm, a member of the Agri-Mark Cooperative and Rhody Fresh Milk, was selected for this year’s award because of the Breene family’s long-term commitment to dairy farming and community ties.

Kevin Breene established Breene Hollow Farm with 20 cows at his parents’ home in 1977 upon his graduation from the University of Connecticut. In 1980, he bought 150 acres of land at the farm’s present location in West Greenwich, and built a new free-stall barn and milking parlor. Over the years, several abutting properties were purchased, bringing the farm’s total acreage to 360 acres. The farm currently milks 50 cows and has 90 head in total consisting of registered Holsteins, Jerseys, and Ayrshires. Crops include 20 acres of corn and 45 acres of hay land and pasture. Corn silage is also purchased from a neighboring farm and the cows are fed a total mixed ration twice a day. The remainder of the farm is managed forestland with continual harvesting of firewood and saw logs. Manure is hauled daily to fields and spread in the spring and fall, and a manure storage facility designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service is in use.

Breene Hollow Farm is operated by Kevin Breene, who does the crop work and cares for the young-stock; and his daughter, Melissa, and her husband, Matt, who run the milking operation. Melissa attended the University of Connecticut and Matt has a bachelor’s degree in forestry from Paul Smith College. Like Melissa, Matt also comes from a farming background and grew up working on his grandfather’s dairy farm.

The entire Breene family is actively involved in the community. Kevin has served as West Greenwich Town Administrator for the past 16 years and previously was a RI state senator for 12 years. He also is involved in 4-H, Future Farmers of America (FFA), Exeter Grange, and previously served as state chairman of the USDA’s Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service.  Melissa is the dairy chair and vice president of the local 4-H Fair and chair of the Young Farmers & Ranchers group for the RI Farm Bureau. She is a former 4-H member, past state vice president of FFA, and past president of Agri-Mark Young Co-operators. 

The Outstanding Dairy Farm of the Year award is sponsored by the New England Green Pastures Committee, made up of government and industry members. Membership in the committee is coordinated by the Rhode Island Agricultural Council and the DEM Division of Agriculture. Winning dairy farmers from each New England state will be honored on September 14 at the Big E Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts.

Sons of Liberty Beer & Spirits Co. Wins World’s Best Wood Aged Beer at World Beer Awards

The Rhode Island Brewstillery’s Barrel Aged Uprising Stout Ale Prevailed Over 12 Other Country Winners

Sons of Liberty’s Barrel Aged Uprising Stout Ale
Sons of Liberty’s Barrel Aged Uprising Stout Ale

Sons of Liberty’s Barrel Aged Uprising Stout Ale won the title of World’s Best Wood Aged Beer at the prestigious World Beer Awards in London. First recognized as USA’s Best Wood Aged Beer in Round 1, the beer then beat out all other country winners for the style in Round 2 for the World’s Best title. Sons of Liberty also received a Gold Medal for Golden Sour and a Silver Medal for 3 Not So Wise Men – both in the Sour Ale category.

“Just earning a Gold is awesome, but to be named the best in the world for something…that’s truly an honor,” Wil Santiago, Head Brewer, said of the results. “We’re especially proud of this beer because it’s unique to who we are and what we do.”

Sons of Liberty’s flagship whiskey, Uprising, is distilled from a house-brewed stout beer. The winning beer was that same stout aged in barrels that once aged the Uprising whiskey. A barrel aged beer taking on flavors from the whiskey that it was originally distilled into is not something one comes across often.

“Since 2011 we’ve been brewing beers and distilling them into whiskies,” explained Head Distiller Chris Guillette. “Over the last 18 months, we’ve focused on crafting multiple generations of products from one mash bill, similar to a chef’s nose-to-tail style of cooking, use everything you have.”

The team at Sons of Liberty has released 12 different iterations of their Uprising stout mash including six different barrel aged beers. “One of the benefits of being a distillery is the number of barrels we have at our disposal,” said Sons of Liberty owner Mike Reppucci. “We have a lot of fun and interesting beers sitting in barrels that we’re really looking forward to sharing with everyone.”

On September 20th, Sons of Liberty’s Barrel Aged Uprising Stout Ale has the chance to be named World’s Best Flavored Beer as it competes in Round 3 against six other World’s Best style winners within the Flavored category. Sons of Liberty has earned over 100 awards for their spirits and company since 2012, but are now gaining more traction with their beer offerings.

Full results from the 2018 World Beer Awards (Round 1 & 2) can be found here: http://www.worldbeerawards.com/shares/Style-Winner-results.pdf

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