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Thundermist

Name: Hope & Main Schoolyard Twilight Party 2026
Start: 2026-08-29T17:00:00-04:00
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Location: Hope & Main

chefs & restaurants cooking farms news wine & drinks

News Bites: Food Bank Launches Summer Food Drive / Summer at Newport Vineyards / Six Farmers Markets Opening in July

by David Dadekian January 2, 2019

written by David Dadekian

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

RI Community Food Bank Launches Summer Food Drive

During the summer, the need for food assistance among families spikes as children lose access to the healthy, nutritious meals they normally receive at school. To help fill the gap throughout the summer months, the Food Bank is asking the community to support the Summer Food Drive.

Here’s how you can help:

Drop off donations of non-perishable food
Pick up donation boxes and posters for a food drive in your workplace or community (or download and print your own poster).
Get the kids involved in an activity to benefit the Food Bank
Make a financial donation to help end hunger in Rhode Island

First Gentleman of Rhode Island and Chair of the Summer Food Drive Andy Moffit launched the campaign along with Food Bank CEO Andrew Schiff by encouraging Rhode Islanders to join the effort and help their neighbors in need.

Get more details and a list of most-needed items»

Watch the Summer Food Drive kick-off with Andrew Schiff and Andy Moffit:

Newport Vineyards Brings the Napa Experience to Newport with Summer Events, Tours & Tastings, Live Music & Seasonally Inspired Dining

Newport Vineyards

Newport Vineyards, an award winning winery located in beautiful Middletown, RI, has a big summer planned with tours, tastings, special events, live music and much more. Founded by brothers John & Paul Nunes in 1995, the vineyard is the largest grower of grapes in New England. The winery produces nearly 30,000 cases of estate-grown wine each year through sustainable farming methods on 75 acres of historically preserved farmland. Following a multi-million dollar renovation completed in 2015, the winery has become a culinary and wine destination offering multiple experiences including daily tours and tastings, 100% from scratch culinary programs at Brix Restaurant and The Vineyard Café, The Marketplace, seasonal live music, private events and public activities.

Each Wednesday evening through the summer, enjoy an extended evening wine tasting from 5-8pm! Hear live music from a variety of artists while you sip and savor around the welcoming fire pits. In addition to wine, beer and sangria, snacks from the kitchen are available. The vineyard also hosts a weekend music series from 1- 4pm on Saturday & Sunday afternoons. Savor the season, glass in hand! No tickets are needed and all are welcome. For more details, including the artist lineup, please visit www.newportvineyards.com/calendar-of-events.

Dine at Brix Restaurant following an afternoon at the winery or just because! Cozy up around the fire with a glass of wine. Enjoy expansive views of the vineyard and the entire winemaking operation through two walls of windows that drape the room. The culinary approach, artfully prepared by Executive Chef Andy Teixeira, starts with the basic belief that it is their responsibility to provide truth in their food. “We love the food from the minute in comes in the door, to the minute it goes into the guest’s mouth,” said Chef Teixeira. The seasonally inspired menu highlights local farms and offers something for everyone’s palate. Wednesdays are Flight Night – just $10 for a tasting of four wines or beers.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon sipping wine and local beer with friends amid the vines, grabbing a quick breakfast or a leisurely lunch, enjoying a gourmet dinner, or hosting a private event, Newport Vineyards truly has it all. Located just 45 minutes from downtown Providence, experience summer at its finest on Aquidneck Island.

Follow Newport Vineyards on Facebook @NewportVineyards, Twitter @NewportVines, and Instagram @NewportVines. For more details, please visit www.newportvineyards.com.

Tasting Room	Winery Tours	Vineyard Café	Brix Restaurant
*Mon – Sat* 10am – 6pm *Sunday* 12 – 6pm	*Sun – Fri* 1pm & 3pm *Saturday* hourly, 11am – 4pm	*Sunday* 12 – 5pm (seasonally) *Monday* closed *Tues – Thurs* 11am – 4pm *Friday* 11am – 5pm *Saturday* 9am – 12pm breakfast sandwiches only 11am – 5pm full menu	*Tues – Thurs* 5 – 9pm *Fri & Sat* 4 – 10pmClosed Sundays & Mondays, but always available for private events, day or night

Six Farmers Markets Increasing Food Access To Open In July

Farm Fresh RI Farmers Market

Farm Fresh Rhode Island is excited to announce six of their farmers markets opening in July. Located in neighborhoods at risk for health disparities, Farm Fresh RI markets focus on increasing access to fresh, local food and nutrition education.

In July, shoppers can expect to find tomatoes, corn, peppers, blueberries, melons, grapes, greens, herbs, cheese, radishes, mushrooms, carrots, bitter melons, fresh bread and so much more! It’s easy to find a farmers market in your neighborhood and shop for fresh, local fruits and vegetables all summer and well into fall. Many markets also feature live music, prepared foods & food trucks and family-friendly activities.

According to a recent study by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), “When comparing product prices between farmers markets and retail stores, local products are competitively priced – within a 10 percent price range – at farmers markets a majority of the time, even less expensive for some foods. Local, certified organic products at farmers markets are almost always competitively priced when compared to prices at retail stores.” (May, 2016; source with graphic: http://blogs.usda.gov/2016/05/19/local-and-organic-food-shopping-finding-the-best-price)

Farm Fresh RI markets accept cash, credit, debit, SNAP, WIC Fruit & Vegetable checks, and Senior vouchers. And in partnership with Wholesome Wave (wholesomewave.org), Farm Fresh RI provides Bonus Bucks—an additional 40% bonus for customers using EBT—to increase access to fresh fruits and veggies for low-income individuals receiving federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

The following markets, managed by Farm Fresh Rhode Island, open in July.

For a full list of farmers markets in Rhode Island, visit www.farmfreshri.org.

BROAD STREET — 807 Broad St, Providence
July 1 to October 28
Saturdays, 8:00am – 11:30pm

DOWNTOWN PROVIDENCE — Kennedy Plaza
July 11 to October 31
Tuesdays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

CENTRAL FALLS — Garfield St Playground
July 5 to October 25
Wednesdays, 2:00 – 5:30pm

WEST WARWICK —Thundermist Health Center, 186 Providence St
July 6 to October 26
Thursdays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

SLATER PARK — 825 Armistice Blvd, Pawtucket
July 9 to October 29
Sundays 12:00 – 3:00pm

NEUTACONKANUT PARK — 675 Plainfield St, Providence
July 3 to October 30
Mondays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

And two other Farm Fresh RI markets are already underway!
ARMORY — Parade St at Hudson St, Providence
May 25 to October 26
Thursdays 3:30 – 7:00pm or dusk

WOONSOCKET — Thundermist Health Center, 450 Clinton St
Year-round (Moves outside July 5)
Tuesdays, 3:00 – 6:00pm

January 2, 2019 0 comments

chefs & restaurants news

News Bites of New Hires: RI Food Policy Council Work Group Chairs, Julian’s Head Chef & Sous Chef, Red Stripe Executive Chef

by David Dadekian August 31, 2015

written by David Dadekian

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

RHODE ISLAND FOOD POLICY COUNCIL ANNOUNCES NEW CHAIRS

The Rhode Island Food Policy Council is thrilled to announce the confirmation of new Work Group Chairs for the Council’s major focus areas: access, economy, environment, health, and production. This group brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from all facets of the food system, and will play an integral role in the development and implementation of Council goals.

Access: Georgina Sarpong is the Farmers Market Program Manager for Farm Fresh Rhode Island. She has experience in food access advocacy and is also an experienced chef. We are fortunate to have her expertise and commitment to improving healthy food access throughout Rhode Island.

Economy: Jeffrey Powell is the Food Service Director at Chariho Regional School District. He has worked in nearly all aspects of the food business, including experience as a chef, restaurant owner, contract dining manager, and in food brokerage and distribution. He recently launched the Ocean State Smoked Fish Company operating out of Rhode Island’s first culinary incubator, Hope & Main in Warren, RI. We are grateful to have Jeffrey’s background and experience in the food economic sector.

Environment: Antonia Bryson practiced law for 30 years, specializing in environmental and land use law. Her vast experience in this field includes having served as a Deputy Commissioner of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, Chair of the Manhattan Solid Waste Advisory Board, and Chief of the Environmental Division of the New York City Law Department. She founded the Urban Environmental Law Center, working as an advocate for community groups and nonprofits. Antonia’s experience in the environmental field is an incredible resource, and we are excited to have her join the team.

Health: Annajane Yolken is the Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation Manager at Thundermist Health Center. Her interest is at the intersection of food and health utilizing an equity lens. She has experience from Miriam Hospital and the Rhode Island Public Health Institute. Annajane brings a deep understanding of the ties between food and health, and we are happy she will be sharing her insight with us.

Production: Jennifer Bristol serves as Executive Director of Mount Hope Farm, and the Program Management and Operations Director for The Institute for Mindful Leadership. She brings years of experience in the nonprofit world, including, most recently, senior leadership for The Nature Conservancy. Her unique background in both nonprofit leadership and executive management of a local farm are an asset, and we are pleased to have her working with us.

“The Council’s Work Groups are where the rubber of food systems work meets the road of Rhode Island reality,” said Kenneth Payne, Chair of the RIFPC. “These outstanding work group chairs will give us traction.”

We are excited to welcome this incoming group and look forward to working together toward making the Rhode Island food system a leader in the nation.

Julian’s names new Head Chef

as well as new Sous Chef and launches new Dinner Menu

Left: Ryan Poutre, Head Chef / Right: Derek Wood, Sous Chef

This week Ryan Poutre was named the Head Chef of Julian’s Restaurant. Ryan, a Providence native, graduated from Johnson and Wales in 2011. After school he began to cut his teeth in Providence at various restaurants, gaining the prestigious position of Lead Line Cook at Waterman Grille and later moving on to Siena where he became Sous Chef.

Three months ago Ryan joined our team, looking to expand his horizons. His work ethic and passion for food quickly gained him the position of Sous Chef and with in a short time Head Chef. Once promoted, Ryan urged for Lead Line Cook Derek Wood to be promoted to Sous Chef.

Derek Wood has been with Julian’s for two years. He started as a young padawan with limited food experience and we have had the honor of watching him devour food knowledge and honing his skills.

Ryan & Derek have become fast friends and with the support of their kitchen team have released a new dinner menu unveiling dishes like:

Miso Duck with Avocado-Wasabi Puree, Sushi Rice, Smoked Duck, Charred Scallion Salad, Tamari Caramel

Seared Scallops with Heirloom Bean Salad, Cremem Fraiche, Tomato Jam, Bitter Greens

BBQ Beets with Gingered Potato Salad, Preserved Mustard Greens, North Carolina BBQ Sauce, & Crispy Carrots

Sugar Cured Rib-Eye with Sweet Corn Pudding, Fingerling Potatoes, Charred Tomato, & Arugula Pesto

Squash Risotto with Braised Calabaza Squash, Pepitas, Local Mushrooms, Coconut Milk

Stay tuned for new news in the very near future like: Julian’s Omnibus at Kennedy Plaza, Pizza J opening, H, Julian’s & Allagash Beer Dinner at the Steel Yard with FIRE.

JEREMY EWING-CHOW NAMED EXECUTIVE CHEF OF RED STRIPE RESTAURANTS

Jeremy Ewing-Chow

Encore Hospitality Group, which owns and operates the Mill’s Tavern and Red Stripe restaurants, announces that Jeremy Ewing-Chow has been promoted to executive chef of the two Red Stripe locations in Providence and East Greenwich.

Mr. Ewing-Chow, who has over 20 years of experience in the culinary industry, joined Red Stripe as a chef at the East Greenwich location last fall. In his capacity as executive chef, he is responsible for the supervision and coordination of all culinary activities at both Red Stripe restaurants, including management and training of kitchen staff, planning and producing menus, selecting and developing recipes, pricing and cost accounting, and ensuring food quality and consistency.

Ewing-Chow traces his passion for culinary arts to his Chino-Guyanese roots, where family meals were a blend of cross-cultural foods and flavors. This diversity, coupled with a love of food and a yearning to travel, influenced his decision to become a chef, and continues to inspire his cooking techniques and recipe development. “To understand a cuisine, I try to understand its culture. There is no better teacher than travel,” he says.

A 1998 graduate of Johnson and Wales University, Ewing-Chow was previously employed at the Gatehouse Restaurant (now the Waterman Grille) in Providence and at the Cheeky Monkey Café in Newport, where he was chef de cuisine for seven years. Prior to his employment with Red Stripe, he worked as chef de cuisine/executive chef at Russell Morin Fine Catering for seven years.

Of his new role, Ewing-Chow says, “I look forward to working together with the talented staff of Red Stripe restaurants. Our team shares a commitment to quality, consistency, excellence and exceeding our guests’ expectations.”

“Between the expanded Providence Red Stripe and our second location in East Greenwich, we are welcoming over 4,000 guests into our restaurants each week for brunch, lunch and dinner,” states Paul Conforti, managing partner of Encore Hospitality Group. “Red Stripe has been serving refined comfort food at an affordable price point for over 10 years. With his extensive training and global culinary view, we are confident Jeremy will keep our food innovative and exciting while also maintaining the consistent quality our guests rely on. We’re pleased to have him on the Encore team.”

Ewing-Chow resides in East Greenwich.

August 31, 2015 0 comments

farms news

RI DEM News Release: Eight Indoor Winter Farmers’ Markets Throughout The State Offer Rhode Islanders A Wide Variety Of Local Products

by David Dadekian November 23, 2014

written by David Dadekian

RI Department of Environmental Management
For Release: November 19, 2014
Contact: Gail Mastrati 222-4700 ext. 2402

Eight Indoor Winter Farmers’ Markets Throughout The State Offer Rhode Islanders A Wide Variety Of Local Products

Rhode Island-Grown and Produced Produce, Poultry, Meats and Seafood Are Available at the Winter Markets to Serve as Part of Your Thanksgiving Meal

Rhode Islanders now have eight winter farmers’ markets available throughout the state where they can purchase a wide variety of locally-grown and produced products. The Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Agriculture and partners are helping to sponsor the indoor farmers’ markets through the “Get Fresh. Buy Local.” statewide campaign aimed at promoting awareness of and interest in buying RI-grown specialty crops.

“Buying fresh, locally-sourced meats, seafood, vegetables, fruit and dairy products at the winter farmers’ markets helps Rhode Islanders enjoy delicious, healthy foods and supports our local farmers,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “Take some time to visit one of the eight winter farmers’ markets as you prepare for your Thanksgiving meal. Nothing’s better than a Rhode Island-grown turkey, locally-harvested fish and shellfish products, and farm-fresh potatoes, carrots, apples, cider and winter squash to compliment your holiday menu. They are all available – straight from the farm and the sea – at the winter markets.”

The South Kingstown Indoor Winter Farmers’ Market in the Peace Dale Mill Complex at 1425 Kingstown Road (Route 108) in Peace Dale is open on Saturdays through April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Now in its sixth year, this market is an outgrowth of the South Kingstown farmers’ market that operates at URI’s East Farm and at Marina Park from May through October. This indoor winter market features a cornucopia of locally-grown and produced products, including seasonal vegetables and fruits, cornmeal, breads, harvest decorations, eggs, honey, candles, jams, RI wool blankets and yarns, artisan soaps, RI raised beef, pork, lamb, chicken, turkey, oysters, fish, seafood, baked goods, and dog biscuits. For more information about the South Kingstown Indoor Winter Farmers Market, visit its website at www.southkingstownfarmersmarket.org.

The Coastal Growers’ Winter Market in North Kingstown at Lafayette Mill on Route 102, just west of Wickford in North Kingstown, is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through May 2. Throughout the summer and fall, the Coastal Growers’ Market operates on Saturdays at Casey Farm in Saunderstown. Shoppers are able to purchase a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, cheeses, naturally raised meats, breads and baked goods, fresh eggs, preserves, honey, chocolate, local seafood and fish, popcorn, flowers, cold-pressed juices, mushrooms, wreaths, soaps, coffee, and handmade pizza for lunch. For additional information about the Coastal Growers’ Winter Market, visit its website at www.coastalmarket.org.

The Mount Hope Year-round Market at Mount Hope Farm in Bristol is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Among the many products that are available at this market are locally-raised meat, fish and shellfish, vegetables, eggs, freshly-baked breads, pies, cakes, coffee, honey, herbs and granola. The Mount Hope market is located at 250 Metacom Avenue in Bristol and operates indoors now throughout the winter. For more information, visit www.mounthopefarm.org/farmersmarket.

The Farm Fresh RI Wintertime Farmers’ Market at Hope Artiste Village at 1005 Main Street in Pawtucket is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through May 9. Now in its eighth year, the market is the largest wintertime farmers’ market in New England. It specializes in fresh, locally-grown and produced food including apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, onions, cranberries, mushrooms, greens, potatoes, radishes, winter squash, and more. Vendors will also be offering locally-raised eggs, pork, chicken, beef, fish, charcuterie and shellfish; locally-produced applesauce, tomato sauce, jams, jellies, pickles and cheese; granola, bread, cupcakes, crepes, pies and baked treats and dog biscuits. For more information about the Pawtucket Wintertime Farmers’ Market, call 312-4250 or visit www.farmfreshri.org.

The Hope Valley Indoor Winter Farmers’ Market, located above the police station in the Richmond Community Center at 1168 Main Street in Wyoming, is open Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., through April 11. Vendors participating in the market include Our Kids Farm, Usquepaugh Baking Co., Carolyn’s Kitchen, Healey’s Farm, Kenyon’s Grist Mill, On The Lane Farm, and Narragansett Creamery. For more information, email market manager Meredith Westner at mwestner@yahoo.com.

In East Greenwich, the St. Luke’s ‘Arts And Farms’ Indoor Winter Farmers’ Market will be open every Monday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. through March 2 at St. Luke’s Church located at Church located at 99 Pierce Street Street. A variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, breads, jams, prepared foods, and all natural dog food are available for purchase from local vendors at the market throughout the winter. For more information, email market manager Wesley Forsyth at musicandtrees7@gmail.com.

The Woonsocket Indoor Winter Farmers’ Market, located at the Thundermist Health Center at 450 Clinton Street in Woonsocket, is open Tuesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. through June 30. Vendors participating in the market include Blue Skys Farm and Farm Fresh & Co., which offer a variety of vegetables, herbs, flowers, dairy, grains, specialty items and a line of Harvest Kitchen products for purchase. For more information, email market manager Mikayla Moretti at mikayla@farmfreshri.org.

The Aquidneck Growers’ Market, now located indoors at Newport Vineyard and Winery in Middletown, is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through May 9. A wide variety of locally-grown fruit and vegetables will be available through the winter in addition to fresh breads and pastries, locally-sourced fresh seafood, pasture raised meat and eggs, and changing weekly artisan vendors. The market is located at 909 East Main Road. For additional information, visit www.aquidneckgrowersmarket.com.

The state’s $170 million agriculture industry benefits Rhode Island’s economy and quality of life, and provides access to local foods and horticultural products. Rhode Island has 1,243 farms, mostly family run, which occupy 68,000 acres. The state is a national leader in direct-sales to consumers, with 50 seasonal farmers markets in the state’s urban, suburban and rural areas, eight indoor winter markets, and numerous pick-your-own and farm stand operations.

“With the growing demand for locally-grown products, seasonal farmers’ markets help create a more sustainable, locally-based food system that benefits the Rhode Island economy and environment,” added Director Janet Coit. “The winter farmers’ markets are great places to purchase the freshest produce, meats and seafood possible – especially with Thanksgiving just a week away.”

November 23, 2014 0 comments

chefs & restaurants farms news wine & drinks

News Bites: Hope & Main Readying to Open, Farm Fresh RI Farmers Markets, New Attractions in Newport & Bristol Counties

by David Dadekian June 26, 2014

written by David Dadekian

Hope & Main, LLC

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

Hope & Main Hires Executive Director of Operations Ahead of August Opening

Julie Nahas will head Rhode Island’s first culinary business incubator, set to open its doors in August 2014

Hope & Main, a nonprofit culinary business incubator, has hired Julie Nahas as its Executive Director of Operations. Nahas will lead day-to-day operations of the facility as well as oversee recruitment, coaching and mentoring for the organization’s incubator program.

Nahas brings to Hope & Main a diverse and established career in the Rhode Island food and culinary industry. Owner and operator of the landmark 3 Steeple Street Restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island, from 2002 to 2009, she also managed the Pot Au Feu and former Federal Reserve restaurants.

“Julie has experience in food business management and production, and she’s passionately devoted to local, sustainable food and production practices,” says Lisa Raiola, MPH, founder of Hope & Main. “We are incredibly impressed with her vision for Hope & Main and her enthusiasm for mentoring our members. I am thrilled that she is taking the helm as we move toward our August opening.”

Hope & Main will launch with some 30 new food startups in its newly-renovated headquarters in Warren, Rhode Island, later this summer. As the state’s first food business incubator, Hope & Main will give food entrepreneurs and early-stage culinary businesses the chance to grow in their first two to three years without the cost of equipping their own commercial facilities. Food businesses accepted into the incubator program will receive extensive mentoring, access to fully-equipped and affordable work space, and immersion in an entrepreneurial environment where they can collaborate with peers and industry experts.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the Hope & Main project and to work with so many inspiring entrepreneurs in the culinary industry,” Nahas says. “I’m looking forward to helping to make this a place where food startups can grow and thrive.”

For more information on Hope & Main visit www.makefoodyourbusiness.org

Six Farm Fresh RI Farmers Markets Open in July

Farm Fresh Rhode Island is excited to announce the opening of five farmers markets across the state in the month of July. Find a market in your neighborhood and shop for fresh local fruits and vegetables this summer. In July shoppers can expect to find tomatoes, corn, peppers, blueberries, melons, grapes, greens, herbs, cheese, radishes, mushrooms, carrots, bitter melons, fresh bread and more!

The following markets, managed by Farm Fresh Rhode Island, open in July. For a full list of farmers markets in Rhode Island, visit www.farmfreshri.org.

WOONSOCKET FARMERS MARKET: Tuesdays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 1st – Oct. 28th

Thundermist Health Center, 450 Clinton St., Woonsocket (NOTE: NEW HOURS!)

One of 4 national sites running the innovative Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program.
Woonsocket Thundermist Health Fair will be held Tuesday, July 15th.

DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET: Tuesdays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 1st – Oct. 28th

Near Burnside Park, Downtown Kennedy Plaza, Providence

Located in the heart of Providence adjacent to Burnside Park
Many new vendors this season, come check them out!

WEST WARWICK FARMERS MARKET: Thursdays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 3rd– Oct. 30th

Thundermist Health Center, 186 Providence St., West Warwick

Two new additional vendors this year, bringing more variety to this market!
West Warwick Health Fair will be held July 17th.

BROAD STREET FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays 8:30am – 12pm, Jul. 5th – Oct. 25th

Algonquin House, 807 Broad St., Providence

Come enjoy the greenery at Algonquin House and purchase fresh produce.
Broad Street Health Fair will be held July 19th

SLATER PARK FARMERS MARKET: Sundays 12pm – 3pm, Jul. 6th – Oct. 26th

Armistice Boulevard Entrance of Slater Park, Pawtucket

This market is near the tennis courts in Slater Park.
Enjoy Sunday afternoons in the park with your family, and grab your veggies to go!

NEUTACONKANUT HILL FARMERS MARKET: Mondays 3pm – 6pm, Jul. 7th – Oct. 27th

Neutaconkanut Park, Plainfield St., Providence

Stop by the Neutaconkanut Recreation Center and pool on your way to the market.
Health Fair Week at Farm Fresh markets begins Monday, July 14th at Neutaconkanut.

Farm Fresh Rhode Island markets accept cash, credit cards, EBT/Food Stamps, Senior Coupons, WIC Farmers Market Coupons, and WIC Fruit and Vegetable checks. Customers with credit, debit or EBT cards can purchase Fresh Bucks – farmers market tokens – at the Farm Fresh RI welcome table.

FARMERS MARKET INCENTIVES AND NUTRITION EDUCATION DETAILS:

Healthy Foods, Healthy Families – A program that provides low-income Rhode Island families with the tools to shop for and cook affordable fresh foods, through a series of hands-on activities at the farmers markets. Families receive incentives to return to the market, such as free bags, recipe books, and fresh bucks to use to purchase fresh produce. The curriculum is available in both English and Spanish.

All of the markets listed above, as well as the Armory Park Farmers Market, host this program, except the Downtown Farmers Market. To learn more, email mikayla@farmfreshri.org.

Fruit & Veggie RX – For 2014, the Fruit & Vegetable Prescription program will run at Thundermist Health Center at the Woonsocket and West Warwick Farmers Markets. The goal of the program is to improve the health of community members by giving them the resources to afford to eat more fresh, locally grown produce. This season, 70 enrolled families will receive healthcare provider-generated “prescriptions” redeemable at the farmers market for local fresh fruit and vegetables. The Fruit & Vegetable Prescription Program is a public health initiative of the Wholesome Wave Foundation. For more information visit: http://www.farmfresh.org/markets/fruitveggierx.php.

Bonus Bucks – Bring your SNAP card to the Farm Fresh welcome table at participating markets and receive extra money for fresh food. Farm Fresh Rhode Island will give you $2 extra for every $5 in EBT spent (that’s an unlimited 40% bonus) thanks to Citizens Bank, Wholesome Wave, June Rockwell Levy Foundation, The Rhode Island Foundation, Bank RI, City of Providence, Frederick C. Tanner Memorial Fund, and generous individuals.

Fresh Bucks, as well as the 40% bonus for EBT customers, are also available at the independently managed Hope Street Farmers Market in Providence on Saturdays.

New Attractions and Businesses Enhance the 2014 Visitor Experience

This past weekend officially ushered in the summer season, and just in time, Newport and Bristol Counties welcomes new accommodations, events, experiences, restaurants, tours and more.

ACCOMODATIONS

The Urban Beach House at The Attwater: With four suites and one guest room, The Urban Beach House at The Attwater brings the vibe of the beach to the heart of Newport. “Outdoor style” showers in the rooms, a sand lounge gathering spot for watching Newport roll by and kick-up-my-heels informality create the sizzle of summer every day. In the main hotel, the new Lark Suite has been unveiled. All have been designed by award-winning Rachel Reider Interiors. The total combined number of suites and rooms available at The Attwater is now 17. 22 Liberty Street, Newport.

EVENTS, TOURS & ATTRACTIONS

Bristol Independence Tour: Enjoy the many sights over Bristol, home of America’s oldest Fourth of July Parade, with Bird’s Eye View Helicopters. This 15-18 minute aerial patriotic tour includes views of Prudence Island, Roger Williams University, the Mount Hope Bridge, Bristol lighthouses and mansions, and historic Colt State Park. You’ll also experience a perfect panoramic view of the upper Narragansett Bay made complete with distant views of Providence (approximately 25 statute miles).

Cliff Walk: Newport’s most visited attraction has unveiled newly restored section that was previously damaged and closed due to Hurricane Sandy. Work on a small section between Marine Avenue and Ledge Road, which will complete the restoration project, should be finished by mid-summer.

Paradise Farmhouse: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the newly-renovated Paradise Farmhouse in Middletown is the oldest structure on the 325-acre Norman Bird Sanctuary property dating back to the early 1700s when it was a mere shack for tenant farmers. The character of the house has been carefully preserved while bringing all systems up to date. The interior architectural details were carefully removed at the outset of the project and have been painstakingly restored and put back over the past few months. With overnight accommodations for up to 16 people with 6/7 bedrooms, Paradise Farmhouse offers multi-day programs for visiting ornithologists, naturalists, health & wellness groups, eco-conscious travelers, environmentalists and artists on this breathtaking and historical property. In addition, there are plans for an Artists Residency program, the first and only of its kind in RI, where artists will live and work in the farmhouse, carrying on the significant history of artists finding inspiration on this beautiful property. Opened January 2014.

Doris Duke’s Rough Point Mansion: Twice named to best dressed lists, Miss Duke was an individual whose sense of style reflected her confidence, personality and creativity. The 2014 exhibit, No Rules: The Personal Style of Doris Duke, examines a portion of Miss Duke’s clothing collection ranging from exquisite evening gowns to the simple black dress. The exhibit is included in the guided house tour and will be on display in the galleries at Rough Point through the season, which ends November 9th. Also, for the first time since it opened to the public, Rough Point is open Sundays for guided tours.

Newport Concert Series: Gregg Allman, Yes, Bare Naked Ladies, 3 Doors Down, The Beach Boys, Josh Turner, Alanis Morissette, KC & The Sunshine Band, Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, John Hiatt, The Robert Cray Band and Chris Young are just some of the talented musicians headed to downtown Newport with many more to be announced. newportwaterfrontevents.com/music/newport-concert-series

The Newport Comedy Series: The most sought-after talent performs in the City by the Sea including Bill Cosby, Amy Schumer, Artie Lange, Jim Jefferies and Nick Swardson with many more acts to be announced. newportcomedy.com

The Newport Jazz Festival: Marking its 60th anniversary, a third day of music featuring emerging artists has been added. More than 40 artists will perform over the weekend including the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Bobby McFerrin spirityouall, Trombone Shorty, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Robert Glasper, Dr. John, Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Gary Burton, Gregory Porter, Jon Batiste, Dave Holland, John Zorn, Miguel Zenón, The Cookers, Snarky Puppy and more. In addition, the Newport Jazz Festival will present a symposium at Fort Adams State Park. Curated by New York Times critic Nate Chinen, the symposium will discuss how jazz relates to popular culture in today’s society, compared to when the festival began in 1954. It will feature internationally-known jazz aficionados and historians, including Henry Louis Gates.

Newport Mansions:

New this summer will be a revised audio tour at Marble House which will shed new light on the “self-made myth” of Alva Vanderbilt and share more personal stories about the Vanderbilt family.
Mandarin translations of the audio tours at The Breakers and The Elms will debut. Chinese-speaking visitors are the fastest growing segment of foreign visitors to the Newport Mansions.
The 2014 costume exhibition at Rosecliff, Dressing Down: Private Life and the Dressing Gown, includes a series of vignettes depicting “life at home” from 1890 to 1950 featuring a variety of dressing gowns and other personal apparel that gave women and men a reprieve from the elaborate and often constricting formal clothing of the period.
Point to Point: Hunter House and the Constellations of Communities will present Hunter House and its collections through a wide range of perspectives, from wealthy merchants, to enslaved Africans, French troops, and others whose daily lives shaped the world in Newport’s Point neighborhood.
At the Isaac Bell House, an exhibition presented in partnership with the Newport Historical Society will examine an early photographic portfolio commissioned by architect Charles McKim. Reinventing the Colonial: The Charles Follen McKim Photographs will showcase a series of 29 black and white photographs of buildings, architectural details, furniture and landscapes taken in and around Newport in 1874, which helped to shape McKim’s later work, including the Bell House.

Newport Rocks the Fort: This new concert series at historic Fort Adams will include food, beverages and fun. There will be two major concerts (Sun. June 29 and Fri. Aug. 29) and a series of Thursday evening concerts featuring regional musicians. June 29 performers include: John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, Another Tequila Sunrise (Eagles Tribute band), Hey Nineteen (Tribute to Steely Dan), and more. The Aug. 29 concert features Rick Derringer and more. “Newport Rocks the Fort Sundown Thursdays” are free concerts set on the Fort’s North lawn starting at 6:00 pm and ending shortly after sunset.

In conjunction with the 375th anniversary of Newport, The Preservation Society of Newport County and designer Angela Moore will host a Champagne Brunch Fashion Show this summer at Rosecliff on Thursday, July 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. All proceeds from this debut event will benefit the Preservation Society’s mission to protect, preserve and present its exceptional collection of house museums and landscapes. The theme of the show will be “Newport Forever,” celebrating Newport’s 375th anniversary.

RESTAURANTS

Ború Noodle Bar: A small, casual, ramen-inspired eatery with six seats at small tables and 12 bar-style seats. Noodle bowls are made with savory broths, fresh vegetables and a variety of proteins. 36 Broadway, Newport.

Café Bellavista: This small, Italian-inspired café in the former location of la Masion de Coco serves Italian gelato, coffee and pastry and offers lunch selections including Paninis, salads and daily specials. 28 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Caleb & Broad: A casually hip restaurant and bar on Broadway’s growing “restaurant row” serving dinner selections including starters, salads and entrees ranging from dry rub ribs to duck flatbread. 162 Broadway, Newport.

Despina’s Café: A small Greek-inspired café serving fine pastries, deli-sandwiches, soups, salads and home-style meals in a relaxing setting. 258 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Eli’s Kitchen: From the former chef of Bristol’s beloved Beehive Café, Eli Dunn, this Warren eatery offering locally sourced and lovingly prepared comfort food in a warm, casual and inclusive atmosphere. 40 Market Street, Warren.

Empire Tea + Coffee: This third location of Newport’s own coffee den faces Bellevue Avenue and features teas, coffee, pastry and more. 112 William Street, Newport.

Ida’s Restaurant: Serving lunch and dinner including a wide variety of salads, seafood, homemade pastas and much more. 21 Valley Road, Middletown.

Inpopnito: “Popcorn in disguise,” Inpopnito serves flavored popcorn in unusual flavors like Summer Strawberry, Orange Soda and Lemonade. 435 Thames Street, Newport.

Meg’s Aussie Milk Bar: Formerly Café Bellevue, this cozy café serves breakfast and lunch plus a few select Australian and Australian-inspired favorites including meat pies, Anzac biscuits, a Vegemite & cheese sandwich and Cherry Ripe Slice. 111 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Metacom Kitchen: A casual dining American Bistro which will be opening in Warren, Rhode Island later this summer by Chef Richard Allaire, formerly of Newport’s beloved Tucker’s Bistro and current chef/partner at Providence Coal Fired Pizza.

The Parlor: Formerly Café 200, the newly renovated space features multiple bars, pool tables and a new menu. 200 Broadway, Newport.

Provencal Bakery: This popular bakery and lunch locale in Middletown has opened a new Newport location. 469 1/2 Thames Street, Newport.

The Revolving Door: This addition to the critically-acclaimed French restaurant Bouchard features local, regional and national chefs cooking for two weeks to a month serving a prix fixe menu. 505 Thames Street, Newport.

Rhino Bar is now called Perry Mill Tavern, also home to the Perry Mill Music Hall. The outdoor patio is now called Perry Mill Clam Shack. 337 Thames Street, Newport.

The Shop on Thames Street: This cozy, centrally-located spot serves creative soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps. 397 Thames Street, Newport.

Simone’s: Spearheaded by Joe Simone, formerly of the Sunnyside, to open in Warren by mid-summer.

Regina Rotisserie Chicken: Wood-fired and fried chicken plus wraps, sandwiches and more for take-out. 266 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Willy’s Burger Bar & Rotisserie: This 75-seat restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients and dishes including burgers, rotisserie chicken, simply roasted food and cocktails with shakes in the summer. The restaurant is open seven days a week for dinner with lunch service. 599 Thames Street, Newport.

Hope: Opening late summer or early fall. 180 Broadway, Newport.

SHOPPING

Bellevue Kids: children’s store with clothing and accessories for boys and girls. 206 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Bellevue Rug & Home: Rugs, furnishings, home décor. 268 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Digs Design Company: chic home furnishings, accessories and interior design services. 99 Spring Street, Newport.

Egg + Dart: a gallery and home boutique. 57 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport.

Newport Jerky Company: offers a variety of exotic jerky snacks including kangaroo, alligator, rainbow trout, Ahi tuna, venison and more. 424 Thames Street, Newport.

IE Cycle: electric bike store. 400 Thames Street, Newport.

La V Curiosité: a collection of thoughtfully curious yet functional finds: gifts, home decor, kitchen wares & lifestyle accessories. 146 Bellevue Avenue, Newport.

Lemon & Line: nautical bracelets and accessories. 421 Thames Street, Newport.

Lolo: the originators of vinyl on vinyl accessories with pop color silhouettes. 468 Thames Street, Newport.

Nando’s Gallery on Thames: Original pieces by artist Nando Pellegrino. 491 Thames Street, Newport.

P.S. Gear 2: Fun and unique gifts and gear for men and women (part of the shops by Pleasant Surprise). 359 Thames Street, Newport.

SummerTies: specializing in men’s bowties as well as pocket squares, pajama bottoms, boxers, decorative pillows, and women’s accessories including earrings and scarves. 424 Thames Street, Newport.

Soap and Water: featuring Molton Brown and other fine bath and body products for men and women as well as luxury home fragrances. 16 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport.

Thomas Rudd: ties, bow ties and assorted accessories not limited to cufflinks, suspenders, belts, and pocket squares. 36 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport.

Tervis: tumblers, water bottles, mugs, goblets & more made in America since 1946. 192 Thames Street, Newport.

June 26, 2014 0 comments