A U NC

Federally insured by by insured Federally PRSRT STD Local Postal Customer ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 55800

BOSTON MA

Photo credit: Sandra Achille Sandra credit: Photo

www.smithfieldtimesri.net

COMPLIMENTARY COMPLIMENTARY AUGUST 2020 2020 MAY AUGUST By Jim Gass The Woonasquatucket River and Water Power

We are an environmental organization sparking economic development and creating thriving neighborhoods for all who live around the The Woonasqautucket River Watershed river was an important Woonasquatucket River.

Our mission is to reclaim this river as a natural, historic, recreational and economic resource.

This watershed is comprised of Council (WRWC) is hosting a series resource for both the 52 square miles of land.

Jewels of Smithfield are The Jewels of Smithfield the ponds and reservoirs created by mill owners to of Thesignage and tour Jewels events this ofNative AmericansSmithfield power the mills. summer commemorating the history of of the region and the Sluice gate on Stillwater Mill Dam Capron Dam Esmond Dam and mill pond Stillwater Mill and pond – 1974

How did Smithfield mill owners ensure a steady Model for the Nation Smithfield’s unique reservoir system, European settlers that supply of water to power their mills? Successful management of the water supply Mill owners relied on the Woonasquatucket River to power their allowed mills along the Woonasquatucket mills. The mill owners had to contend with seasonal droughts and River to operate additional machinery and fluctuations in river flow. The mill owners needed to devise a system led to the employment of approximately to ensure a steady supply of water to operate their mills year-round. 2,000 people. The reservoirs were able to collectively store a four-month supply of “The Jewels of Smithfield.” The series A Reservoir System is Developed followed. It served as water allowing the mills to continue to operate in spite of annual droughts. The In 1824, mill owners formed the Woonasquatucket River Company Woonasquatucket River Company’s and built a system of dams and reservoirs. This was the first Our watershed successful management of the reservoir company of its kind in the United States and ensured a steady is the land area system became a model that was replicated supply of water to power the mills throughout the year. Other that drains into the around the country. reservoir companies would be formed including the Stillwater Woonasquatucket kicks off on Wednesday, August 5th at a transportation route River system. Reservoir Company and the Woonasquatucket Reservoir Company.

Notable Smithfield Reservoirs Year built Woonasquatucket River (pronounced Woon-ah-skwa-tuck-it, Algonquian for “where the salt water ends”) Geogiaville Pond 1813, enlarged in 1852 Special Act, Rhode Island 5:30 p.m. at Georgiaville Pond, and will Slack Reservoir 1822 Mill Race Dam – Greenville This river begins in North Smithfield and flows south until it reaches Waterplace for various inland General Assembly 1824 Sprague Lower Reservoir 1827 Finishing Company Park in Providence. Then it joins three other rivers to form upper Narragansett Bay. Sprague Upper Reservoir 1836 The Woonasquatucket River Company was established “for the purpose of erecting, The Woonasquatucket River is designated as one of only fourteen American Waterman Reservoir 1837 establishing, maintaining, and keeping in Heritage Rivers in the country and is part of the Blackstone River Valley National Mountain Dale Reservoir Prior to 1850 order dams and reservoirs on the waters of Heritage Corridor. feature a tour of the new informational tribes, allowing them Stillwater Pond Circa 1850 the said Woonasquatucket River and Stilwater Reservoir* 1853 and 1910 its branches.” The river played a powerful role in the American Industrial Revolution that both made Rhode Island an economic force, but left a legacy of environmental damage *The Stillwater Reservoir was drained in the late 1860s and was reformed into as reservoir in 1910. It then became known as Stump Pond. that the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) and signs. The event is free. Other Jewels to access Narragansett Overshot water wheel our many partners are now working to repair. www.wrwc.org.

Historic panel created by the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council in collaboration with the Town of Smithfield of Smithfield programs coming up in Bay and the Atlantic and the Smithfield Historic Preservation Commission. Funded by the Rhode Island Foundation. August include a paddle on Stump Ocean. Certain places Signs designed by Smithfield resident Elaine S. Amoriggi. Pond and a bike tour. WRWC asks that along the river in what if you attend the event at Georgiaville, is now Providence were places where please wear a mask and adhere to social Narragansett and Wampanoag peoples Road, Stump Pond, Georgiaville Pond, distancing guidelines. met for trade and seasonal festivals. Whipple Field and Esmond Park. During the 19th century, it was important The Jewels of Smithfield project is a for Rhode Island’s fledgling textile The second event is a canoe and kayak collaborative effort between WRWC, industry, providing water power to the paddle at Stump Pond scheduled for Smithfield's Town Council, Planning mills that created woolen fabric. Tuesday, August 11th. Meet at the boat Department, Historic Preservation launch off Log Road at the west side Commission, Parks and Recreation The Jewels of Smithfield reservoir of the reservoir. Launch time is at 6:00 Department and Conservation system was created by a group of p.m. but arrive 15 minutes early to get Commission. The project was funded Providence mill owners in 1824. It was set up. It will be a relaxing two-and- by a $10,000 grant from the Rhode the first of its kind in the country. The a-half mile paddle that will take about Island Foundation. Its purpose is to river was strategically dammed to create two hours to complete. While gliding get people to visit the reservoirs and to water storage reservoirs that would by lakeside homes, small islands and learn about their historical significance, service mills downstream in Johnston, secluded woods, you will see dragonflies including extensive Native American use North Providence and Providence. Water and damselflies, wetland plants in bloom, of the Woonasquatucket River, and to was retained in the reservoirs during the herons, painted turtles and several encourage stewardship and protection of rainy months and then released through species of fish. these unique natural resources. the dams during the dry months. The result was a permanent, year-round Pre-registration is required for both The Woonsocket River’s headwaters source of water power for the mills. The programs and can be done on the council’s originate from wetlands in Primrose, Jewels of Smithfield are Georgiaville website. You can attend the events for North Smithfield, at 300 feet above sea Pond, Stillwater Reservoir (also known free, but since WRWC is a non-profit level. From there, the river flows 19 as the Woonasquatucket Reservoir or organization, they request a $5.00 to miles southeast over 18 dams, through Stump Pond), and Waterman Reservoir. $20.00 donation, paid when you register. numerous ponds, until finally reaching downtown Providence. Once there it Other Jewels of Smithfield events joins the Moshassuck River to form the happening this month include a bike tour WRWC’s mission is to reclaim the Providence River, which empties into of the new signs scheduled for Thursday, Woonasquatucket River as a natural, upper Narragansett Bay. According to August 6th. The tour starts at 4:00 p.m. at historic, recreational and economic WRWC, the Woonasquatucket watershed the parking lot of the Stump Pond State resource. To find out how you can covers 50 square miles in the towns of Fishing Area off Log Road. It will be just get involved or to register for these North Smithfield, Smithfield, Johnston, under 10 miles and finished by sunset. and other upcoming programs, visit North Providence, and Providence. The Sites along the way will include Log their website at: www.wrwc.org/wp/

2 | AUGUST 2020 Proudly Serving Homeowners 363 Putnam Pike Contractors Welcome Smithfield, RI 02917 (At the Crossing in Smithfield) Family Owned and Operated 401-232-7222 Office Since 1938 401-640-9225 Mobile We Offer Everything You Need To Create Your Backyard Paradise!

Flowers, Shrubs and Trees Landscape Materials Stone & Masonry Supplies Seaside Casual Furniture Sheds and Gazebos Statues, Pottery and Gifts Thank You For Your Continued Support of Local Business. www.hilltopgardensri.com

Review Your Trust Annually ReviewReview YourYour TrustTrust Annually Annually To ProtectTo ProtectProtect Your YourYour Assets Assets Assets

care, bothcare, the both federal the federal and state and state It is Itpart is part of myof my regular regular practice practice toto care, both the federal and state It is part of my regular practice to governmentsgovernments periodically periodically amend amend the theprepare prepare living living Trusts Trusts to to both both avoid avoid governments periodically amend the MedicaidMedicaid statutes statutes and regulations and regulations in inprobate probateprepare of aof livingclient’s a client’s Trusts estate estate to and bothand protectprotect avoid order toMedicaid orderfurther to further limitstatutes eligibility limit and eligibility regulations for the for theintheir their probateassets assets from of from a client’snursing nursing estate home home and costscosts protect order to further limit eligibility for the their assets from nursing home costs program.program. duringduring their their lifetime. lifetime. I alsoI also review review and program. during their lifetime. I also review and Therefore,Therefore, if you have if you had have a hadliving a living updateupdate those those Trusts, Trusts, and and similar similar Trusts Therefore,Trust prepared if you to have shelter had your a living assets preparedupdate thoseby other Trusts, attorneys and similar upon Trusts Medicaid is aMedicaid state administered is a state administered Trust prepared to shelter your assets prepared by other attorneys upon Medicaidprogram is that a state is funded administered to a great Trustfrom preparednursing home to shelter expenses your and assets request.prepared by other attorneys upon from nursing home expenses and request. program thatprogramextent is funded bythat the is to Socialfunded a great Security to a great trust fromenhance nursing your homechances expenses of qualifying and Ifrequest. you are concerned about possible extent by theextentfund. Social by It the providesSecurity Social for Securitytrust payment enhance trust of enhance foryour Medicaid chances your longchances of termqualifying of care qualifying benefits If youlongIf areyou term concerned are care concerned expenses about about and possible would possible fund. It providesfund.medical It forprovides services payment for and payment of long termfor of Medicaid forafter Medicaid along five termyear long look care term backbenefits care period, benefits long like longterm to term discusscare careexpenses your expenses concerns and and would with would medical servicesmedicalnursing and services home long care andterm forlong those termafter who a fiveafteryou shouldyeara five look haveyear back lookthat Trustperiod,back reviewedperiod, like me,tolike discuss please to discuss call your my your concerns office concerns for withan with nursing homenursingqualify. care home for those care for who those you who should youannually shouldhave andthat have revised Trust that ifreviewedTrust necessary reviewed to me, appointment.pleaseme, please call mycall There officemy isoffice no for fee for anfor an the qualify. qualify.Because of the ever increasingannually annuallybe and sure revised it and conforms revised if necessary to if the necessary current to toappointment. initialappointment. consultation. There There is no is feeno feefor for the the Because ofBecause thecost ever of of long increasing the termever nursingincreasing homebe sure beitMedicaid conformssure it conforms statutes to the and tocurrent regulations.the current initialinitial consultation. consultation. – George M. Prescott cost of long term nursing homeMedicaid Medicaid statutes statutes and regulations. and regulations. cost of long term nursingCourtesy home of: – George– George M. M.Prescott Prescott Courtesy of:Courtesy of: George M. Prescott GeorgeGeorgeATTORNEY M. M. Prescott PrescottAT LAW 300 Front Street, Lincoln, Rhode Island, 02865-0089 (401) 726-5577 The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyersATTORNEY in the general practice of law. The Court does not ATlicense or certify LAW any lawyer as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. 300 FrontATTORNEY Street, Lincoln, Rhode Island, AT 02865-0089 LAW (401) 726-5577 The Rhode300 Island Front Supreme CourtStreet, licenses allLincoln, lawyers in the Rhode general practice Island, of law. The 02865-0089 Court does not license or certify(401) any lawyer 726-5577 as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers in the general practice of law. The Court does not license or certify any lawyer as an expert or specialist in any field of practice.

The Smithfield Times | 3 Greenville Inn closes, daughter shares touching memories of hard work, family, and community

By Brittni Henderson their careers, as it helped For over 61 years, the Greenville Inn instill a strong has been a place where the residents work ethic for of Smithfield and surrounding areas both of them, could gather for a meal, drinks, and catapulting quality time together. Unlike many other them into the restaurants, the Greenville Inn was built successful by a family and upheld family values to careers they create a place that feels just like home. have today. For the Belknap family, who purchased the Greenville Inn in 1997, keeping these “My sister and I factors consistent over the last 23 years learned that you was of utmost importance. have to work hard in life to be Jim and Diane Belknap met while successful,” Allison shares. “I became a working in the restaurant business, an When her parents purchased the Inn, criminal defense attorney with my own industry they were both introduced to Allison was 10 years old and her younger practice in Warren and Jackie is a CPA in at the age of 15. Jim was the chef at a sister Jackie was 7. Allison reminisces Boston. We worked hard to achieve both restaurant in Smithfield, while Diane about the grand opening party, post careers.” was working there part time during father-daughter dance gatherings, graduate school. Diane was in the midst birthday parties, and most recently, her Although the Inn taught the Belknap of attaining her Master’s Degree from baby shower– all held at the Inn. sisters the values of hard work and Bryant University at the time. The family, it’s time as a restaurant came to a two dated, got married, and welcomed “My favorite part as a child was the bittersweet end in July 2020 amidst the two daughters into the world before never ending supply of chicken fingers COVID-19 pandemic. Jim and Diane had purchasing the Inn. and french fries!” Allison says. “But as I time to reflect on their family’s success got older and more involved, it was the and the countless memories made at the ability to work alongside my family and Inn, and decided it was time to retire to to help make the restaurant successful. spend more time with their daughters, The teamwork and social atmosphere their families, and of course their was fun too. It was interesting talking grandson! to so many customers and hearing their stories.” “I will miss working with my family, celebrating at the restaurant, popping When Allison and Jackie were old in to say hi to old co-workers and enough, they would help out at the customers,” says Allison. “Our “My mom was teaching, while also restaurant by hanging coats in the winter. employees and customers have really working part time at the Greenville Eventually they were promoted to bus become extended family over the years. Inn when it went up for sale,” daughter girls, servers, and then bartenders. The I will miss sharing stories with them Allison (Belknap) Abilheira says. “My sisters worked their way through high and seeing friendly faces. I will miss the parents decided to put both of their school and college, both studying at delicious dinners too of course! We hope restaurant experiences together, as well as Bryant University for their undergraduate that the new buyers will hold true to the Diane’s business background to use and degrees. These motivated young women values we had at the Inn and that it will bought the Greenville Inn.” believe that everyone should work in remain a place for locals to meet to have the restaurant industry at some point in a drink, share a meal, and a laugh!”

4 | AUGUST 2020 Choosing the right orthodontist isn’t easy. Until you hear what our patients have to say .

When I was told that my child needed braces, my neighbor suggested Dr. Romani. And when I asked her why, she smiled and said: “Well, look what she did for my teeth, and now that Anthony is old enough, she’s taking care of his smile as well…in fact, it was my dentist that recommended Dr. Romani and I’m so glad he did.” –Manuela C, Chepachet office patient

See for yourself why so many neighbors and dentists recommend Romani Orthodontics. Call today for a free comprehensive evaluation.

Dr. Kirsten Romani Certified Elite Preferred Provider of Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® RomaniOrthodontics.com VOTED TOP ORTHODONTIST Chepachet: 568-ll88 7 YEARS RUNNING by Practicing RI Dentists East Providence: 434-ll27 RI MONTHLY POLL

TheRO_SmthTms_Choose_11.indd Smithfield Times, 1 Inc. 10/16/17 2:58 PM3 The Smithfield Times | 5 Principal Urges Students to Think and Drive

By Paul Lonardo

Following the spring lockdowns and the a car accident where a student passed “One of the best resources we have at recent reopening of society, many young away. So, it continues to be an issue and the high school is our own substance people are anxious to get out of the remains something we have to address abuse counselor, Rebecca Young, who house and enjoy the summer with family as a community.” does a tremendous job connecting and friends. With that freedom comes a with the kids and getting them further degree of responsibility that needs to be In a world where so much can go wrong connecting with other resources to help taken seriously because not only have that is not in our control, what makes them, whatever their needs.” Covid-19 cases spiked, but so have car alcohol or drug-related accidents all the accidents and fatalities, of which drugs more tragic is that they are completely The solution is often as simple as and alcohol are leading contributors. preventable. picking up the phone, which is likely already in hand, and calling a relative, “Student use of drugs and alcohol Kelley believes that the solution begins a friend or a ride-sharing company remains prevalent, and it is something at home, with parents talking with their like Uber if you or someone you’re we need to continue to monitor as children and asking questions. With with is about to get into a car after parents and teachers and school kids getting their own phones and other having too much to drink. However, leaders,” says Smithfield High School devices at an early age, it is imperative things like peer pressure and feelings principal, Daniel Kelley. “While drug- that parents know what their children of invincibility can get in the way, and related use has not seen very much on are doing when they are not at school, that’s what makes it so frustrating. school grounds itself in recent years, who they are associating with, and who what happens outside of school hours is is texting them. “These types of accidents can be just as impactful on our students and the prevented,” Kelley insists. “If people overall community.” “Just because they’re in high school just took a moment and paused to ask doesn’t mean they’re adults,” he says. themselves what they’re about to do, According to Kelley and other leading “Parents still need to keep an eye out whether it’s buying alcohol for minors experts on adolescent behavior, young on what their kids are doing online and or getting into a car with someone who people tend to see themselves as maintain an open dialogue.” you know has had too much to drink.” invincible to many hazards, including mortal harm related to drinking and Another way to reach these vulnerable So, while there is a still a lot of work to driving. “That’s why we need to young people is at school, where there do as a community around the issue of continue to hammer home to them that are resources and staff available to them impaired driving, Kelley is confident some of the choices they make will to address issues such as alcohol and that steps can be taken to keep our most have lifelong impacts on them and their substance use. precious cargo get to where they’re families,” Kelley says. going safely.

The current Smithfield High School principal recalls that the beloved former principal, Bob Salisbury, who sadly died last June, kept a log of students who lost their lives to drug and alcohol-related accidents. “When he was principal, there was a period of time when such tragic accidents happened quite often.,” Kelley says. “The year I was hired, one of the first things I dealt with was

6 | AUGUST 2020 Smithfield Businesses Adjust to Pandemic

By Joe Siegel

Local businesses have adjusted to the Kountry Kitchen owner Lionel Delos had been live-streaming funeral services new reality of the coronavirus pandemic. also reports that business has picked up so families and friends of the deceased Rhode Island entered Phase 3 on June since indoor dining has been allowed. could watch from their safety of their 30 with relaxed guidelines allowing for The restaurant also has twenty tables for own homes. larger social gatherings. New cases of outside dining. COVID-19 and hospitalizations have The amount of mourners allowed to dropped off, but owners and managers “I don’t see any signs of it slowing attend a funeral service in a church are still taking precautions. down,” Delos said. “We’re actually varies widely, according to Winfield. getting busier and busier.” For nearly three months, restaurants had “If you have a moderately sized funeral, been only allowed to provide delivery Funeral home operators have been you probably can have everyone in the and take-out orders to patrons. facing their own challenges in providing facility with you,” Winfield said. comfort to people mourning their family Stephanie Mosca, owner of A & W on members in a time of social distancing. Visitors to the funeral home have been Route 44, notes a steady wearing face coverings. stream of customers looking for burgers and fries during “The people that we serve, the hot days of summer. they come prepared, we have not had one person come to our “Business has been great,” facility without (a mask), it’s said Mosca. “We’re takeout been very easy to work with only so it actually increased everybody. I think everybody our business in the spring.” understands the big picture,” Winfield noted. Mosca reports since the reopening of other Winfield is “cautiously restaurants for indoor optimistic” there will be dining, business has a larger amount of people returned to normal levels. allowed to attend visitations and funerals as the state Mosca said customers are wearing “We usually get an e-mail from the guidelines continue to be relaxed. masks and social distancing. (state) Department of Health and it tells us exactly what we can do,” “I’m glad we moved to the next phase,” “If they don’t have one on, we will ask said Thomas Winfield, President of Winfield added. “I think if we continue them to put it on,” Mosca noted. “For Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home. to do what we do and we’re diligent, we the most part, we’re not doing any “Right now, we can have 25 people use our face mask, we wash our hands, window service, we are going directly in the building. We think it might be we use good common sense, I think that to the cars and taking their orders so more than the 25 but we’re being very we’re going to be okay, we’re going to no one has to get out, no one has to cautious until we receive that e-mail get out of this.” be exposed. We ask that they wear the which is important.” mask in the car when we’re taking the order so we’re minimizing contact as Due to the prohibition of gatherings of much as we can.” more than 10 people, Anderson-Winfield

The Smithfield Times | 7 Residents Honor Smithfield Police By Joe Siegel

A coalition of town residents and local businesses donated gift baskets stuffed with snacks, hand sanitizer, cake pops, and other goodies to recognize the work done by the Smithfield Police Department.

“It’s been amazing,” said Liz Wood, who created a Facebook page in an effort to solicit donations.

Wood thought it would be a great idea to show support for law enforcement after the last few months of protests and riots around the country.

“We’re overwhelmed with the generosity of everybody,” Wood noted. The page “blew up,” said Melissa McDonough.

“The whole community came out,” McDonough said. “The amount of stuff we got is unbelievable.”

Some businesses contributed gift cards. One business owner donated 42 massages to the police department.

Chief Richard St. Sauveur said the donations were appreciated.

“We know we have support (from the community) but it’s really nice to see,” St. Sauveur added.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Thacker and her dog Bandit! Liz earned her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from New England Institute of Technology.

8 | AUGUST 2020 Twin Rivers Hearing Health specializes in all areas of hearing, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and hearing aids.

Schedule your appointment online at twinrivershearing.com Don't Miss THE SOUNDS OF $1000off a set of Opn S Hearing Devices

SUMMER Offer expires 8/31/2020

Your best bet for hearing healthcare in Lil’ Rhody since 2001

AWARD WINNING AUDIOLOGIST Dr. Mary Kay Uchmanowicz

151 Douglas Pike • Smithfield | 401-349-0456 Specializing in all areas of hearing, including tinnitus and hearing aids.

Photo credit: Sandra Archille

The Smithfield Times | 9 IMHO | by Ron Scopelliti The milk of human kindness

As bad as the past few months have Then it occurred to me that most milk and oat been, the epic disruption of the mammals stop drinking milk once milk. I’m not pandemic has had me looking at parts they’re weaned, and that I didn’t even sure what the of our culture that I’d left largely wait that long, being part a generation driving force unexamined until now. Unfortunately raised on baby formula. And I started behind this I’m not talking about any deep and wondering what inspired the first dairy trend is, but it momentous ruminations, like figuring farmer to yank on a cow’s udder and actually makes out how we can rise above a civilization drink what came out? I suspect that dairy a lot of sense. that’s become dominated by cutthroat farming must have been invented after It’s pretty capitalism, or how we can be culturally fermentation, because that has “drunken inefficient to sensitive without completely crushing bet” written all over it. breed something as big as a cow and the concept of free speech. What I’ve continually to feed it vegetation so it been reexamining the past few months is So I started doing web searches will produce milk, when you could just my relationship with milk. on “history of milk,” and after be making milk out of the vegetation. acknowledging that it was probably Cut out the middleman, or in this case, When this whole thing started I got kind the lamest search term I’d ever typed, I the middle bovine lady. of panicky, not because I couldn’t find found out that the drinking of milk has toilet paper, but because I couldn’t find had such a complex history that I could So maybe cancel culture has finally milk. Being that I don’t actually drink barely scratch the surface. The practice caught up with the dairy cow. What the stuff, it shouldn’t have been all that of drinking milk from an animal has will happen when cows cease to be alarming. But I use milk in my two main been the source of all kinds of cultural domestic animals and revert to the wild? sources of ingestible comfort: cereal and stigmas, health concerns, and safety Will animal shelters have to enlarge coffee. I knew I could improvise some controversies. One interesting fact I their kennels to accommodate stray sort of alternative to toilet paper, but stumbled upon was that there’s a fairly Holsteins? Will packs of cows wander the prospect of not having milk for my common 7,500-year-old human mutation around raising hell like Marlon Brando’s Honey Bunches of Oats had me panic- that allows people to keep producing motorcycle gang from “The Wild buying condensed milk, and scrambling lactase, the enzyme that allows infants One?” They already have the leather to figure out what kind of container I to easily digest milk, into adulthood. So jackets. Or will dairy cows end up on should un-condense it into. it could be that those of us who aren’t the ever-expanding unemployment line? lactose intolerant can only deal with milk I suppose unemployment is a more Luckily, milk began to reappear on because we’re mutants. But we’re the pleasant option than life as a perpetual shelves pretty quickly, but it still became uncool mutants who didn’t make it into milk donor. a defining factor in my life. When the Professor Xavier’s academy because we stay-at-home order came along and I can’t set things on fire with our eyes. Go So I guess I should explore some chose to only go out for essentials, the figure. alternatives. If I can free some cows, timing always seemed to be based on help save the planet, and stop relying when my milk ran out or went bad. I Along the way, a friend alerted me to on my mutant powers to digest lactose, started thinking that maybe this was a the trend of millennials abandoning maybe it’s worth trying some almond chance to get back in touch with my traditional dairy milk and moving to a milk. After all, when Shakespeare mammalian origins, and start to better growing number of alternatives. Almond coined his famous phrase, he never embrace the liquid that helps distinguish milk and soy milk are old standbys that said that “the milk of human kindness” us from lizards and insects. I’ve been seeing for years, but now couldn’t come from a nut. they’re being caught up with by rice

10 | AUGUST 2020 Bank of America Connects Rhode Island Youth to Workforce Success Through Paid Virtual Summer Leadership Experience Student Leaders underlines bank’s ongoing commitment to connect young people to jobs, skills-building and opportunities to strengthen our community Bank of America today announced civic engagement, and workforce skills- that will expose them to the vital role that the four Rhode Island high school building. In light of the health concerns that nonprofits play in advancing juniors and seniors selected as Student that remain in local communities, the community health, the importance of Leaders (#BofAStudentLeaders) program has been adapted to a virtual public private partnerships to advance have started their paid summer format, through which students will have social change, and a focus on building internship experience of leadership, the opportunity to participate in sessions financial acumen.

The Class of 2020 Rhode Island-based Bank of America Student Leaders are:

Ajiehume Ceesay, of Noelia Garcia, of Providence, Cameron Kasbarian, Autumn Lupoli, Woonsocket, a Woonsocket senior at Juanita Sanchez of Smithfield, senior at of Wakefield, senior at High School graduate Educational Complex Smithfield High School The Prout School

The Smithfield Times | 11 Ask an Expert

My name is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) and I’m honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to [email protected] or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!

How Do You Get Rid of Carpenter Bees?

Some “pests” are pestier than others! To a degree, they are loners, and when you see their damage, it is typically the The more challenging it is to get rid of females chewing circular holes to a pest that is causing damage to your make places to lay eggs and protect home in one way, shape, or form, causes their larvae as they develop. me to label it “pestier” than others. These holes can be quite extensive and There are all types of creepy crawlies are often noticed when a homeowner About Tom Lopatosky that many folks refer to as “pests” that happens to stumble upon varying de- create damage around the home – car- grees of carpenter bee excrement, which Tom Lopatosky has run his penter ants, mice, termites, you name it! is often found on the area of a home own RI-based carpentry directly below a place where carpenter and painting business since Perhaps near the top of the pestiest of bees have been burrowing. 1995; LOPCO Contracting – them all, for me, would be carpenter the “Personable, Particular bees. The crazy thing about these pests, is that Professionals” – specializes although they can cause quite a bit of in carpentry and exterior & As far as bees are concerned, carpenter damage to your home, they are extraor- interior painting. Recently bees are not really that harmful. dinary pollinators! LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting The males may appear to be a bit feisty Knowing this, I come across situations Contracting Company’ by (they do like to dive bomb beings that where people are often torn as to how to ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, they feel are coming into their territory) address them. Tom was named “Humanitarian but they do not even have stingers (and they would not “bite” per se!). Assuming you would like to be rid of of the Year” by the Painting them, they are not very easy to stop, as and Decorating Contractors The females have stingers, but will only even with pest control treatments, they of America (PDCA) and a “40 resort to trying to sting if they are being often come back to the same spot, or a Under 40” award winner by bothered. spot nearby, soon after a treatment has Providence Business News. been done. He is a member of both Where the carpenter bees create dam- PCA (Painting Contractors age, is by burrowing into various areas There are a variety of recommendations Association) and RIBA (Rhode around the home (I usually see them in throughout the internet in terms of how Island Builders Association). trim areas high above or various areas to stop them. Tom has often had weekly around porch ceilings, etc.). ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that My recommendation is that if you do have aired on the radio on 630 Carpenter bees are unlike other bees in move forward with some type of pest WPRO AM and on television on that they do not live in colonies. control for carpenter bees, do not close their holes up right away. WPRI 12.

12 | AUGUST 2020 Instead, keep an eye on the area that was replace the damaged wood with pressure there that try to attract carpenter bees treated and its nearby places to make treated (or some other chemically treat- away from areas on the home that they sure that the carpenter bees are indeed ed wood) or composite material where may be in the process of damaging, but gone. possible and to keep all painted surfaces at the same time try to keep them near properly maintained. the home to benefit from the way that Once you are convinced that the carpen- they pollinate. ter bees are no longer around your home, Carpenter bees sure can create a dilem- wait until later in the Fall to work toward ma between their usefulness in pollina- Whatever the case may be, out of all the correcting any damage that they may tion and the damage that they can cause pests I typically come across, carpenter have done. to someone’s home. bees present the most challenge in terms of quickly stopping them from damaging My further recommendation is to Believe it or not, there are systems out someone’s home over a long term basis.

Cook & Dagger Offers Great Food With No Political Fare

By Paul Lonardo

The owners of Greenville’s Cook and Dagger restaurant, Chris Kattawar and Taylor Krickl, are happy to be back serving what they refer to as “creative comfort food” to their returning customers. They are proud of their menu, made with fresh ingredients, and their continued support of local farmers and businesses, and that’s where they would like all the focus to remain. However, a recent controversy erupted due to a sign that the restaurant shares with a neighboring business, the New “We just want to keep whipping up England for Trump gift shop. In this delicious food and drink,” they wrote Cook & Dagger is located at volatile political climate, some people in a Facebook plea to their customers. 566 Putnam Pike in Greenville. have taken offense to the political “That’s all we are trying to do here.” Check out their menu at novelty store and mistakenly associated http://cookanddagger.com/. it with the restaurant. Cook and Dagger now has limited indoor seating available. Call ahead For reservations call Cook and Dagger, which has been for reservations. They request patrons 401-349-3927 in operation since 2015, wants to set wear a face coverings when entering the record straight that New England and exiting. Curbside take-out is also for Trump is in no way affiliated with available. Take-out them. They only share space on a sign. hours are 2-9 PM The restaurant owners would only Tuesday through like to promote an expanding menu Saturday, and dine- that includes their popular calamari in hours 5-9 PM appetizer, which comes tossed with Tuesday through roasted corn, grilled red onion, shishito Saturday. peppers, and chorizo vinaigrette.

The Smithfield Times | 13 375 Farnum Pike, Route 104 Smithfield, RI 02917 401-231-4830 • 401-231-6100 [email protected]

A&W Offers Vehicle Pick-Up & Delivery To and From Your Home or Office!

OIL CHANGE SPECIAL Refill up to 5 quarts of oil FREE Installation of New Oil Filter, Check Antifreeze, Belts & Hoses CHECK ENGINE Not valid on synthetic and diesel oil changes. DIAGNOSTIC 117 Eddie Dowling Highway, LLB $25.00 Total Regular Price $25 North Smithfield, RI 02896 “Out The Door” DrLindaYoungDNP.com Save $25 FOUR WHEEL A/C ALIGNMENT Recharge $59.95 Regular price starts at $120 Regular Price $79.95

Coolant Flush $50 off any $89.00 Brake repair work Drain oil fluid and refill over $250 with new Coolant Cannot be used with Regular Price $149 any other coupon.

$50 off any $10 off General repair work Full Synthetic over $250 Oil Change Cannot be used with any other coupon.

14 | AUGUST 2020 The Smithfield Times | 15 Is telehealth here to stay? | by Diane L. Marolla, LICSW

In last month’s Smithfield Times article, of anxiety, depression, alcohol and drug embraced telehealth as it is convenient I discussed how telehealth has been use/abuse, and domestic violence during for them. playing a key role in keeping individuals the pandemic. They will explain that who suffer from addiction engaged in when the pandemic is over, as a society, I compared my experiences with treatment. In some cases, telehealth has we will all mentally feel the lasting telehealth with my colleague at been a life saver. In this article, I will effects of it. Gershon, Katie Pecora, LICSW. Katie talk about why telehealth needs to be has been with Gershon for almost 2.5 part of the new normal overall in the As I am writing this article, it is July years. Katie has been a clinician for 15 treatment of mental health disorders as 6th and there could be a surge in cases years. She sees the benefits of telehealth well. For this article, I have also tapped in RI if individuals do not adhere to the with her clients as “it captures people into Katie Pecora, LICSW at Gershon rules and protocols during the holiday who find in person visits prohibitive” Psychological Associates regarding her weekend as outlined by the Governor (i.e. individuals who cannot get experiences in using telehealth transportation and are disabled, as a tool to help her clients. or who cannot take time off from work). In Katie’s opinion Prior to the pandemic, clients come to their visits according to Joe Harpaz May 4th “more relaxed and more open” 2020 article in Forbes magazine to discuss their issues. Katie 5 Reasons Why Telehealth Is also commented that telehealth Here to Stay (Covid-19 And can help individuals who suffer Beyond) a survey “by Sage from social anxiety as it can be Growth Partner (SGP) and used as a tool to engage them Black Book Market Research, in treatment virtually and then 25% of consumer respondents make in person office-based had used telehealth prior to the visits as a goal for the patient COVID-19 pandemic. Fifty- as part of their treatment plan. nine percent reported they are Katie commented that telehealth more likely to use telehealth services of RI and the RI Department of Health. should not replace in person visits (and I now more than previously, and 33% Nationally, we are already seeing a concur with Katie), but that telehealth’s would even leave their current physician surge in cases and in deaths in states that a “win win” for the client and clinician. for a provider who offered telehealth opened faster than RI. At the agency that access.” This same article goes on to I am currently at (Gershon Psychological There are some drawbacks to telehealth, explain that the “surge” in telehealth Associates) the decision was made to however. Technology does fail during is related to individuals accessing do virtual visits only unless the client’s the visit, so if a client is disclosing behavioral health services. Behavioral needs warrant a face to face office visit. difficult or painful information to the health services are provided for the From a clinical standpoint, I had never therapist, it can be a disruption to the treatment of mental health and substance used telehealth before so I was skeptical session. Also, an in-person session helps use/abuse disorders. as to whether it would be beneficial to the clinician get a better feel for the clients. Having used it since mid-March, client and their needs and helps build a If you talk with any behavioral health I can attest that telehealth is safe (as I am rapport and environment of trust for the provider, they will tell you that there has using a HIPAA compliant IT platform), client. Besides technology failing during been an uptick locally and nationally and easy. My current clients have also a visit, Katie and I could not think of

16 | AUGUST 2020 any negatives in the use of telehealth. confusing rules that providers will clinician or the client. The legislation need to follow. In typical form, the is supported by the Senate Leadership, From an insurance perspective both lobbyists from the insurance companies The RI Insurance Commissioner’s our local and national leaders have are already providing false data to top Office, and the RI Governor’s Office. mandated that the rules with telehealth officials in RI stating that telehealth does Hopefully, the leadership at the RI be relaxed during the pandemic. not benefit clients and will be costly. House of Representatives will ensure Unfortunately, insurance companies Fortunately, there is legislation at the passage to demonstrate that they care are already looking for ways to pay RI General Assembly that will support about the health and well-being of all providers less for this necessary and preserve telehealth and not make Rhode Islanders and not the profits of treatment and looking for more it confusing or cost prohibitive to the already rich health insurance companies.

A Transactional Law Firm

Carl B. Lisa Franchise

Louis A. Sousa * Corporate & Business Carl B. Lisa Jr. *

Sandra Sousa-Marujo * Real Estate & Development John J. Poloski, III *

Robert G. Branca, Jr.* † Trusts & Estates Eugene A. Amelio * of Counsel Land Use

5 Benefit Street Providence, RI 02904 Carl B. Lisa and Louis A. Sousa named Phone: 401-274-0600 Legal Eagles 2009 and 2010 Carl B. Lisa FAX: 401-241-6117 AV® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell Email: [email protected] www.lisasousa.com

Martindale-Hubbell ®

10 20 20 10

The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers in the * (Also member of Massachusetts Bar) general practice of law. The Court does not license or certify † (Also member of District of Columba Bar) any lawyer as an expert or specialist in any field of practice.

Moe’s Mower repair Servicing All Makes and Models Spring Tune-up Time! residential & CoMMerCial 20-Yr CrafstMan speCialist i BuY & sell used equipMent 401-651-9053 35B lark industrial pkwY. • Greenville, ri 02828

The Smithfield Times | 17 Senior Scene Biogen offers hope for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease | by Paul V. Palange

Good news can be difficult to come 14 million by 2050 without effective husband in a ‘home’ or ‘facility.’ Those by these days. There is some around, treatments, according to the U.S. Centers terms feed a negative stigma that keeps however, and I recently saw a few for Disease Control and Prevention.” people from getting the help they need. upbeat pieces in my email inbox. The I say, ‘Our family joined a memory care notifications concerned a promising Those state and national figures are community.’ It was our community, too. development in the fight against daunting, which makes me hope that We lived each day with families on the Alzheimer’s disease. Cambridge, Mass.-based Biogen can same journey. We laughed together, cried demonstrate that aducanumab is an together, prayed together and supported According to Reuters news service, effective treatment, and that the doubt each other. If this disease becomes too Biogen, Inc has submitted an application about the drug expressed by some difficult to manage at home, being part for U.S. approval of aducanumab, experts can be dashed. of a quality memory care community which would be the first drug brought to should be your first choice, not your last market to slow the progression of a mind Dr. Maria Carrillo, chief science officer resort. ravishing disease that can suck the life at the Alzheimer’s Association, refused right out of victims as well as their loved to speculate to Reuters on the chances of “Part of my self-care entailed ones. the drug winning approval from the U.S. participating in a support group with Food and Drug Administration (FDA). women losing their mates to dementia. Most of us know people who are Like me, like everyone, they required suffering or have succumbed to “We are looking forward to that rigorous compassion. And they needed to know Alzheimer’s or another form of review and their decision,” Carrillo that they were not alone. This led dementia. For many patients, it’s a told Reuters, adding that a “drug like me to start a blog called CareLiving. lonely, confusing battle; and for the this that addresses the biological causes org, to encourage caregivers to care patients’ friends and relatives who associated with Alzheimer’s dementia for themselves while caring for are caregivers, it’s an emotionally would be historic and no doubt impactful others. Helping others helped me,” she exhausting journey. Witnessing cognitive for the Alzheimer’s community.” wrote. and physical regression firsthand is heart wrenching, especially as someone’s The FDA has 60 days to decide whether Patients, caregivers and health care condition worsens and there is nothing to accept the application for review, professionals facing or dealing with that can be done to slow down or stop Biogen and partner Eisai Co. Ltd. said in Alzheimer’s or other dementias can the disease. a joint statement, Reuters reported. receive education and support from the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island According to the Alzheimer’s Effective treatments of Alzheimer’s Chapter. More information is available at Association Rhode Island Chapter, and other forms of dementia would alz.org/ri, and on Facebook, Instagram, there are 24,000 state residents with be welcomed by people of all income Twitter and Pinterest. Alzheimer’s, and that total is expected levels. Just ask Kim Campbell, the to increase by 12.5 percent to 27,000 widow of singer Glen Campbell. Insights It is stated on the association’s website by 2025. As of 2018, Alzheimer’s was about some of the struggles caregivers that the organization is committed to the fourth leading cause of death in the face can be found in her book, “Gentle advocating for the needs and rights Ocean State, and as of 2019, there were On My Mind: In Sickness and in of people facing Alzheimer’s disease 54,000 unpaid caregivers here. Health With Glen Campbell.” The state and advancing critical research toward Alzheimer’s Association website has a methods of treatment, prevention and, The Reuters’ article states: “The number link to an article about the book that was ultimately, a cure. of people in the United States living with released last month. An excerpt reads: Alzheimer’s, the most common form of That would be fantastic news. dementia, is expected to triple to nearly “I never say I ‘put” or ‘placed’ my

18 | AUGUST 2020 #BETTERFASTERSAFER

• Newly expanded and remodeled clinic • One-on-one in-clinic and Telehealth appointments no referral needed! • Morning, evening, and Saturday appointments • Call today and be evaluated within 24 hours

Located Inside the Smithfield Medical Center 41 Sanderson Road, Suite 101 Smithfield, RI 02917

PERFORMANCEPTRI.COM | 401.726.7100

PRODUCTS • Washed Sand/ Mason Sand • 3/4”, 1¼” & 2” Stone • Concrete Sand ASTMC-33 • 1¼” Processed Gravel • Beach Sand • 3” Minus Base Stone • Bedding, Pool, Play Sand • 3”- 8” Gabion Stone • Recycled Concrete and Asphalt • FIiter Stone • Leach Field Gravel • Double Washed Septic Stone • Clay • Rip Rap R2·R12 • Sandy Fill • Jetty Stone • 6” Minus Borrow • Armor Stone • Loam Tail Ends • High Strength Jersey Barriers • Screened Loam • 6 x 6 x 2 Interlocking Blocks • Infield Diamond Mix • Ready-mix Concrete • 100% Crushed Asphalt • High quality/strength mixture • Special Engineered Planting Soil • Front Discharge Mixers • Stone Dust • 10 Wheelers , Tri Axle • Pea & Chip Stone • Trailer Dumps DELIVERY OF ALL PRODUCTS www.mssccorporation.com 401.232.3010 Headquarters: 618 Greenville Road, North Smithfield, RI 02896 Quarry Location: 1 Pine Hill Road , North Smithfield, RI 02896

The Smithfield Times | 19 Sports with Dan | by Dan Pieroni The 2020 MLB season; concessional crumb or wakeup call to relevance?

It’s here whether we asked for it or not. The Designated hitter is now in both Perhaps this is the shot in the arm leagues. True, the game may be less baseball needs to stay relevant. Yes, barring another extreme wave of strategic, but it’s best to protect pitchers Forget about labor squabbles and long the Covid-19 pandemic, Major League from unfortunate injuries on the seasons. Baseball has begun its 2020 season with basepaths. a shortened schedule, modified rules, So what if the Yankees lose out to a team and likely no fans in the stands. To me though, the most gimmick-laden that got lucky over 60 games. They are rule is that if a game goes into extra the most talented team on paper, so in For the purists, baseball will look innings, a runner will automatically be theory they should win it all. radically then ole ballgame they are placed on second base in an attempt to used to. speed up gameplay. If you hear a Yankee fan complain that they didn’t go all the way it’s just sour Red Sox fans looking to see Los Angeles The traditionalist will cry foul, especially grapes. Angels phenom Mike Trout or the if they root for the Yankees or Dodgers. exciting young core of the Houston I imagine they’ll be calling their local In a 60-game season, every game is do Astros are out of luck. To reduce travel sports radio stations up lamenting or die. There is little margin for error, in the wake of the corona virus, teams that their team got a raw deal because and yes, even teams like the Marlins and will play 10 games apiece against their of the shortened season. Any team the Orioles have a legitimate chance to division rivals, and five games each besides the Yankees or the Dodgers that make noise. against the National League teams that wins the World Series should have an are geographically closest to them (i.e. asterisk placed next to their name in the This is exactly what baseball needs. NL West teams will play AL West teams record book. This wasn’t a full season, A short season, the potential for more five times each). and everyone who follows the game offense, gimmicks galore, and the notion passionately knows that the Yankees that every game will matter. The playoff format will remain the or Dodgers would have dominated same, which could potentially lead to throughout the season. How can we not be excited? accusations of unfairness. Any team can get lucky over 60 games, Alas, the owners will complain about For example, let’s say the Mariners beat which is precisely why this season may lost revenues, the players will complain out the Red Sox for the final playoff end up saving baseball in the long run. about lost wages, and you’ll be too spot. Since the Red Sox won’t be able invested in what the NHL and NBA is to play the Mariners this season, it could Younger fans who don’t appreciate the doing to care about little old baseball. lead to potential accusations of the nuanced strategy of baseball continually Mariners playing in an easier division. complain that the games are too long, too People like me who continue to bang Thus, how could we fairly quantify the boring, and too predictable. the drum for baseball’s relevance amid a Mariners were actually the better team society of instant gratification will likely and not the beneficiary of an easier They’re right, but baseball’s bigger view this mini season as nothing more schedule? problems are the lack of marketable than a crumb in a big pie. stars as compared to the NBA and Plus, if you’re a stickler for rules, the NFL, and the level of greed displayed I guess there’s nothing left to do but gimmicky nature of this shortened by the owners and players during the repeat the rallying cry of our forefathers season is going to make you madder latest negotiations for a new collective who never saw the Ole Town Team win than when a batter tries to bunt in order bargaining agreement. it all. Wait till’ next year! to break up a no-hitter.

20 | AUGUST 2020 The Smithfield Times | 21 The Haunted Tavern By Thomas D’Agostino

Route 44 has always seen its fair share called on the man for breakfast, but there Everyone agreed it was the likeness of of traffic. Early travelers on horseback, was no answer. Resolved descended the the peddler that went missing only to wagon or foot traversed the roadway stairs thinking that the poor peddler was return in the spirit form. en route to Providence or Putnam, sleeping off his merriment, but when he Connecticut. The need for taverns every reached the makeshift bed, it was vacant. A guest once requested to sleep in the five miles was mandated, and those His bag of wares and belongings were cellar in hopes of seeing the ghost. The who were of prominence in the towns still next to the sleeping arrangement, stout ghost hunter stated he feared no the turnpike passed through were given but its owner simply vanished without a spirit and took residence in the basement license to provide victuals, drink and trace. for the night. Sometime in the night lodging. he was awaken by a scream as a pair of scissors took on wings and In 1733 Resolved Waterman Jr., a flew past his head. Needless to great-grandson of Roger Williams say, the “brave” ghost buster took built a tavern in the center of what his belongings and cut out of the is now Greenville. In 1822, The building in a hurry. Smithfield Exchange Bank attached an ell onto the back of the main The Resolved Waterman Tavern an tavern building. Another western historic landmark and reminder of ell was built onto the tavern, and a the days of stagecoach travel and cobblestone courtyard connected tavern life. The present building is the two. A large dining hall sat but a fraction of the once massive on the first floor with a dance hall tavern. The old inn became a directly above. private home in 1902. The front of the inn was razed in 1936 to The tavern became a popular stop make room for the expansion of along the Providence/Putnam US Route 44. It stayed a private Pike. So popular that it rarely stayed Several guests and staff searched for residence until 1969 when the last vacant. Through the centuries, many the man in vain. No one had seen him occupant, Bessie Fish passed, leaving living occupants have graced the walls leave nor had heard him in the night, one the structure empty but not necessarily of the old tavern, but there are also the theory proposed was that he might have vacant. People passing by often claimed permanent occupants that have made the risen in the dead of night and stumbling to see dim lights moving about the antiquated structure their eternal home. around in the dark, fell into the well in rooms and shadows passing by the the basement. The well was very deep, windows as if still occupied by some One evening a traveling peddler stopped and there was no way of telling if the ethereal presence. at the inn in hopes of a meal and a bed traveling salesman had accidentally for the night. Unfortunately, all the fallen in the water source. With little In 2003, The Smithfield Preservation rooms were full, but Mr. Waterman, other choices, Resolved sealed the well Society acquired the building and began being a kind man, could not turn the and dug another in a safer place. Within renovations. The old inn is slated to be tired soul away, so he offered him a few weeks of the incident, guests a museum, complete with artifacts and lodging in the root cellar. The man dined began seeing the melancholy ghost of important historical points throughout. and imbibed, enjoying the company of a man roaming around the building. others until he was ready to bed down Regulars recognized the shade as the The ghost of the peddler is still said for the night. With his thirst and hunger peddler they shared drinks with that to haunt the structure as you read this. well sated, the peddler stumbled down fateful night. The ghost often passed by The building is occasionally open for the steep stairs to his lodging. That was the taproom and disappeared at the stairs tours, and those who venture through the last anyone ever saw of him, in the leading to the basement. the rooms get a glimpse of some of the flesh, anyway. town’s most distinguished history. Who A regular sketched a drawing of the knows, you may even get a tour from a The next morning, Innkeeper Waterman ghost as it passed by him one night. man resembling an 18th-century peddler.

22 | AUGUST 2020 PRESS RELEASE  Angelica Bovis, a natural resources so that future generations of Smithfield lifelong resident of the Town residents can enjoy them.” of Smithfield and graduate of Smithfield High School, has She is also particularly interested in promoting community announced her candidacy for involvement, especially among young people. Angelica Town Council as a Democrat. believes that it is important that young people realize the Angelica is a recent graduate different ways they can get involved in their town’s decision of Roger Williams University making process and that everyone has a say in how the town School of Law and a current operates. At a young age Angelica became involved in local member of the Smithfield politics and committees, and truly believes that community Land Trust. Angelica’s primary involvement fosters growth within the town. goals as a member of the Town Council consider sustainability, Finally, as a member of the Town Council, Angelica would community involvement, and improving education. like to continue to strengthen a strong working relationship between the Town Council and School Committee. Angelica As a member of the Smithfield Land Trust, Angelica is credits much of her success to the Smithfield Public Schools passionate about preserving our open space and historical and, as a recent graduate, has first hand knowledge about integrity. Angelica stated “If elected to Town Council I the challenges young people are facing in their future career will work hard to preserve the quality of life that all of our paths and higher education decisions. Additionally, Angelica residents are accustomed to. I consider myself extremely considers the renovations to the Smithfield elementary schools, lucky to have been raised in Smithfield. It is very important which will result in state of the art facilities, to be a great initial that the Town continues to maintain its unique heritage and step towards a productive educational environment.

DuPont Declares Candidacy for State Senate

Smithfield native says she will “use compassion and courage improve our lives. to help neighbors, make systems work for everyone, improve Instead of eight years laws and lives.” of service, we got eight years of lip service. Melanie DuPont filed her Declaration of And now that we’re in Candidacy with the Board of Canvassers. DuPont is a the COVID crisis, we Democrat running for State Senate in District 22, which can see the effects of spans all of Smithfield and parts of Johnston and North political inaction. It’s Providence. time we make the switch to a candidate who “As your State Senator, I will take bold, decisive action offers a different and to secure for us green energy jobs, living wages, equal courageous approach to pay, and affordable housing. I will work to decouple public service. I am your candidate and I ask you to vote for health insurance from employment and expand mental me in the Primary on September 8th.” healthcare for survivors of domestic violence.” – Melanie DuPont, Democrat for State Senate DuPont’s campaign is online at MelForRI.com and Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. DuPont has cited her own experience, growing up with mother making tipped minimum wage and father unable to – Contact Noah Glickman, Campaign Manager, at campaign@ find work, as a motivating factor for her run. MelForRI.com or MelForRI.com. https://www.instagram.com/ melforri/https://twitter.com/melforri/https://www.facebook. “I don’t trust our endorsed representative to meaningfully com/MelForRI/

The Smithfield Times | 23 PRESS RELEASE  Sean Kilduff – our General Assembly delegation, we As the Town Council’s liaison to the successfully lobbied the Rhode Island Smithfield Land Trust, I have worked It is my pleasure to announce that I will Department of Transportation to resurface closely with our Land Trust members be seeking re-election to the Smithfield Greenville Avenue: three years ahead of to maintain and preserve the beautiful Town Council for a second term. It has schedule. trails that our residents enjoy. Further, been a great honor to serve the residents I have worked cooperatively with my of Smithfield at such an important time in The Town is also in the process of council colleagues to scrutinize our the town’s history. making much-needed repairs to each municipal finances wherever possible. It of its water storage tanks. These tanks, is imperative that the Town continue to Being a graduate of Smithfield Public which have not had any preventative enact fiscally conservative budgets that Schools, I am proud to be overseeing maintenance in the last two decades, will in all instances minimize the financial much-needed renovations to our now have a greater life expectancy. These burden on our residential homeowners elementary schools which will provide repairs ensure that Smithfield residents and local businesses. future generations of Smithfield students will not have any issues with respect to with the opportunity to learn in a cutting- their water supply for years to come. If re-elected, I will continue to work in edge educational environment. If re- conjunction with the Town’s Economic elected, I will continue to work with the With regards to public safety, the Town Development Commission and our Town School Department in order to ensure that has selected a site for new fire station. Manager to attract new businesses to this voter approved $45,000,000 project Located along the Route 7/116 corridor, Smithfield. It is extremely important does not exceed its budgeted amount and this new station will greatly reduce that the Town continue to expand will be completed in a timely manner. fire and rescue response times for its commercial tax base in a manner residents residing in the northern areas of that is consistent with the Town’s During my first term on the Town Smithfield. comprehensive plan. Council, I have collaborated with my Council colleagues and the Department As a lifetime resident of Smithfield, I respectfully ask for your support and of Public Works to address the many I truly believe that is essential that your vote on Tuesday, November 3, 2020. infrastructure needs of the community, affordability and quality of life be Together, we can continue to improve the including plans to resurface several of preserved for all Smithfield residents. quality of life of all Smithfield residents. the town’s aging roads. Together with

T. Michael Lawton – cial tax base in order to keep Smithfield system by repairing and repainting all affordable to our residents and minimize three of its municipal water tanks which Council Vice President T. Michael the tax burden on our residential home- will extend their life expectancy. As the Lawton has announced that he will seek owners and local businesses. council liaison to the Fire Department re-election to the Smithfield Town Coun- Building Committee, the committee is in cil. Lawton stated it has been a great During the current council term, I have the process of selecting a site within the honor to serve the residents of Smithfield worked diligently with my council col- Route 7/116 corridor which will address over the last four years. As a small busi- leagues to address significant and much an underserved area of Town and lower ness owner, it has been a priority of mine needed infrastructure improvements the Fire Department response time for to enact budgets that are fiscally respon- to our Town. The Town has finally residents who reside within this area. sible, and which provide our residents completed a municipal road assessment with the level of service that they are which will be incorporated into a road As a parent of three children who are accustomed to receiving. It is imperative re-surfacing program so that those roads graduates of the Smithfield School that the Town continue to pursue respon- in the worst condition will receive a system, I am pleased that the Town and sible economic development within our priority with respect to paving. The School Department, working together, Economic Growth Overlay District in Town is also in the process of complet- are in the process of making major ren- an effort to expand the Town’s commer- ing a much-needed overhaul of its water ovations to our elementary schools and

24 | AUGUST 2020 PRESS RELEASE   provide our students with state-of-the-art ing additional recreational opportunities Center for both municipal and recre- learning environments. As a member for our families. The Town is currently ational purposes. of the Town Council, myself and my negotiating with the YMCA to utilize a council colleagues along with the School portion of the Camp Shepard property I am truly honored to serve the resi- Department are deeply committed to to provide additional opportunities for dents of our Town and look forward to ensuring that this 45-million-dollar voter ball fields for our children. The Town continuing to increase the quality of life approved initiative is finished on time is also awaiting the receipt of architec- for all of our residents. I respectfully and within its budget. tural plans that would assist the Town in request your vote on November 3, 2020 developing a plan to restore and reopen so that together we can continue to move The Council is in the process of pursu- the East Smithfield Neighborhood our community forward.

Tikoian announces candidacy for Smithfield Town Council

successful in earning Rhode Island essential initiative will minimize further State Accreditation for the department, financial impact to our taxpayers, while approving and implementing policies keeping Smithfield affordable for our and procedures that are consistent current residents and inviting to the with best practices in modern day many new families moving into our law enforcement. Prior to his public beautiful Town.” service as Police Chief, Tikoian served on the Rhode Island State Police for “As a member of the Town Council, 23 years, rising to the rank of Major I will work collaboratively with my and Chief Administrative Officer for colleagues to ensure residents receive the department. As Major and Chief responsible, responsive government, Administrative Officer, a significant quality municipal services, prudent portion of his responsibilities included educational investment, enhanced oversight of the agency’s Finance recreational facilities, upgrades to our David P. Tikoian, a lifelong Office and fiscal management of aging infrastructure and preservation of resident of the Town of Smithfield, the Department’s 97-million-dollar the Town’s historical character,” Tikoian product of the Smithfield School budget. He also was designated as the added. system, graduate of Bryant University legislative liaison for the department and a person deeply committed to the to the Rhode Island General Assembly “I would consider it a privilege to serve town, has announced his candidacy testifying before various House and the residents of our Town, working for Smithfield Town Council on the Senate committees regarding proposed hard to ensure we have a town which Democratic ticket. legislation. is a desired place to live, raise a family and also enjoys a strong sense of Tikoian recently retired as the North “Smithfield is at a crucial financial community. I respectfully ask for your Providence Police Chief and has been cross road,” Tikoian stated. The Town’s vote on November 3, 2020 and look credited for transforming the agency. bonded indebtedness, in excess of 45 forward to meeting many of you during During his tenure as Chief, Tikoian million dollars, has been leveraged to the campaign.” utilized his strong financial oversight its maximum capacity as a result of ability during the construction of recent voter approved initiatives. “When the new North Providence Public elected I will rely on the management CONTACT: David P. Tikoian Safety Complex, saving taxpayers and financial oversight skills acquired CELL: 401-524-7083 approximately 1 million dollars during my career, exploring savings and EMAIL: [email protected] during the course of this massive revenue opportunities consistent with capital project. Tikoian was also the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. This

The Smithfield Times | 25 Crossword Puzzle

Answers to puzzle on page 40.

26 | AUGUST 2020 Covering All Your Insurance Needs.

The Smithfield Times | 27 The Nature of Things | by James Gass Return of the Dragons

When I was young, our friends would so he named the island in its honor. often come up from the city to visit. During the annual Obon festival in On warm summer days, large brightly- Japan, families gather for several days colored dragonflies would patrol our during the summer to honor their backyard for insects, lazily flying back ancestors. It has been a custom for over and forth. I thought they were harmless 500 years. It is believed that during this until one day our urban friends informed time the spirits of the dead return to us that they were in fact devil’s darning visit their relatives, and that dragonflies needles, that they had a nasty sting, and are the incarnate souls of the deceased. that they might even sew our lips shut. I Catching dragonflies at this time is was very careful not to get too close to strictly forbidden. Female Halloween Pennant, by any dragonflies after that. Caoilinn Gass Dragonflies are one of the oldest forms There are many myths and legends of winged insects. Their fossil record wings that move independently of about dragonflies, mostly based on goes back over 300 million years one another, allowing them to fly very fear or ignorance. An early American and includes griffinflies, which were quickly in any direction, including folk tale warns children that if they their larger ancestors. One species of backwards. They can also hover. misbehave, a dragonfly will sew their griffinfly that lived during the Permian Dragonflies grab insects with their legs eyes and ears shut. They are known period (Meganeuropsis permiana) in mid-flight and then scoop them into as “horse stingers” in England and was the biggest insect ever. It had a their mouths. Their heads are dominated the Netherlands. There’s even a myth wingspan of over two feet and a body by two very large compound eyes, that says if a dragonfly hovers over a over a foot long. There are currently which not only give them excellent fisherman, he will have good luck. 3,000 species of dragonflies worldwide peripheral vision and high sensitivity to and about 200 species in New England. movement, but also color vision. Unlike The ancient Chinese didn’t think much In Rhode Island, there are 91 species, other insects, dragonflies utilize an of dragonflies. To them, dragonflies mostly Darners and Skimmers. Darners asynchronous rowing motion in flight. represented the impermanence of are the larger of the two. Most other insects use a symmetrical summer, feebleness and instability. back-and-forth stroke. To the Japanese however, they were a Dragonflies and damselflies are in symbol of victory, agility, and courage. the order Odonata, which is Greek Dragonflies lay theireggs in water or Dragonflies appear in much of 11th for “toothed one,” a reference to their nearby vegetation and have an aquatic century Japanese art, including sword serrated mandibles. Though similar, nymph stage which can live one to five hilts and arrow quivers. damselflies differ from dragonflies in years, depending on the species. The that they are smaller, more delicate, nymphs are also predatory, eating a Japan is also known as Dragonfly and fold their wings over their back variety of aquatic invertebrates. Darner Island, or Akitsushima, named by its when at rest. Dragonflies rest with nymphs will also eat minnows, tadpoles, first Emperor, Jimmu. Akitsu is old their wings stretched out horizontally. or whatever they can catch (and will Japanese for the word tombo, meaning Damselfies also have a weak flight bite if handled). After emerging in the dragonfly. Shima is Island. In ancient pattern, dragonflies are much stronger summer, most dragonflies live for only legend, Jimmu was on top of a mountain fliers. Like birds, many odonate males several months, but there are some surveying what is now Japan. He are more colorful than the females, and longer-lived species including common remarked that it resembled the heart are also territorial. green darners, that actually migrate. rings of two dragonflies mating. A mosquito then tried to bite him, but a Dragonflies are expert aerial predators. When the birding action starts to fizzle dragonfly appeared and swiftly killed it, They have two sets of strong, flexible out in late July and early August, I go

28 | AUGUST 2020 looking for dragonflies. They utilize a variety of habitats but a pond or marsh is always a good place to find them. On a recent walk at Audubon’s Powder Mill Ledges PMA Handyman Services Wildlife refuge in Smithfield, I saw common green darners, For all your small home projects: eastern amberwings, blue dashers, slaty skimmers, and widow skimmers all at the same pond. In the fields there I Kitchen Installments, Carpentry, saw autumn meadowhawks. Fort Nature Refuge in North Tile Work, Flooring, Painting, Smithfield has three ponds and is a good place to find twelve- Light Plumbing and Electrical. No job is too small! spotted skimmers, common whitetails, Halloween pennants, Anything that needs repairing. and many, many more. But if you go looking for dragonflies, Call Pete at be very careful not to misbehave… 401-837-4117 Insured and fully [email protected] licensed #42112 Free Quotes Check out: http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/ fishwild/pdf/wrisum18.pdf

Paul Harrison Realtor

Residential • Commercial Sales and Leasing 380 Jefferson Blvd., Warwick, RI 401-473-7059 148 Boon St., Narragansett, RI [email protected]

Sue-Bee Honey (RI) Raw local Honey and Creamed Honey for sale Sue Baron – Owner 401-829-9985 Facebook: Rizzo Farms – Raw Local Honey Email: [email protected] Look what Ian Wilber caught at Georgiaville Pond! Yes, he just guessed the weight and he did release him back.

The Smithfield Times | 29 New! Audubon is offering small group nature explorations designed with safety in mind. Get up close with some cool marine critters, learn all about the world of pollinators, net some amazing insects, or head out on a bird scavenger hunt!

Rhode Island COVID-19 safety guidelines will be followed for all programs. Small groups are led by Audubon naturalists. Family units are encouraged to participate together. Masks and social distancing are required. Participants must bring their own masks. Advance registration is required, and a parent or guardian must accompany children. Visit the events calendar at www.asri.org for safety guidelines and to register.

Bugliest Bugs – Tales & Trails! plants and flowers. Wear closed-toe shoes. available or bring your own. Wear sturdy shoes, Two Locations Offered - Bristol & Smithfield, RI Sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat are bug spray, sun protection and bring a water Dates and Locations Listed below recommended. For safety guidelines and bottle. Walk will be one mile. Families will go August 4, 18, 19; 2020; 10:00 - 11:00 am advance registration, visit the events calendar home with an activity. For safety guidelines and at www.asri.org. advance registration, visit the events calendar Enjoy an engaging story all about bugs then go at www.asri.org. investigate field, forest and garden to look for Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge wiggly, squiggly, wormy, squirmy insects and 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI • Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge other critters. Nets, bug boxes, field guides and Fee: $10/member; $14/non-member. 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI magnifiers will be available. Wear sturdy shoes, Ages: 14 and up. Register through the events August 10, 2020 bug spray, sun protection and bring a water calendar at www.asri.org. • Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium bottle. Walk will be less than a mile. Families 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI will go home with an activity. For safety August 11, 12, 2020 guidelines and advance registration, visit the Paint & Sip – Owls • Audubon Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge events calendar at www.asri.org. Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium, Bristol, RI 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI; August 8, 2020; 6:30 – 8:00 pm August 14, 2020 Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge • 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI Create your own beautiful painting Fee: $20/member adult/child pair, $7 for each August 4, 2020 while enjoying a glass of wine! No additional member; $25/non-member adult/ • Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium artistic experience necessary – we’ll child pair, $10 each additional non-member. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI lead you through the creative process with Children 3 years and under are free. August 18, 19, 2020 step-by-step instruction. Start with a blank Ages: Appropriate for children ages 6 to 11 canvas and leave with your own masterpiece! with other family members welcome. Register Fee: $10/member adult/child pair, $5 for each If you had fun at a previous class, note that through the events calendar at asri.org. additional member; $15/non-member adult/child a new design will be used – so join us again! pair, $7 each additional non-member. Children Registration is required. For safety guidelines Raptor Meet & Greet 3 years and under are free. Ages: Appropriate and advance registration, visit the events Two Locations Offered; Bristol & Smithfield, RI for children ages 3 ½ to 5 with other family calendar at www.asri.org. Locations and Dates listed below members welcome. Register through the August 11, 12, 20, 2:00 – 2:30 pm events calendar at asri.org. Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI Come meet Audubon birds of prey! Observe Fee: $35/member, $40/non-member. a hawk or owl up close with an Audubon Summer Wildflowers with the Ages: 21 and up. Register through the events naturalist and learn more about their amazing Newcomb’s Guide calendar at www.asri.org. adaptations for survival. Ask questions, take Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge photos and share your own encounters with Smithfield, RI Bird Scavenger Hunt with Audubon wildlife. Learn what you can do to help protect August 8, 2020; 2:00 – 4:00 pm Three Locations Offered: these species. Hands-on activities are part of Bristol, Smithfield, Exeter, RI the fun! Explore the wildlife refuge before or On languid summer days, the wildflowers fill the Dates and locations listed below after the program. For safety guidelines and meadows and forest edges. Come to Audubon August 10, 11, 12, 14, 2020; 10:00 am – 12:00 pm advance registration, visit the events calendar and learn to use the Newcomb’s Wildflower at www.asri.org. Guide, a great resource for identifying all types Audubon loves birds! Join an expert for an all- of herbaceous wild plants. Bring your own about-birds scavenger hunt! Look and listen Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Newcomb’s Guide or buy one here. We’ll also for birds in a variety of habitats, and learn about Wildlife Refuge, have copies on hand to try. Come wander on all kinds of bird nests, behaviors, foods, songs 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI the wildlife refuge learning to identify different and calls. Binoculars and field guides will be August 11, 2020

30 | AUGUST 2020 Exploring Wetlands Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Wild Mushroom Workshop: Take the Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge Refuge, Smithfield, RI Mystery Out of Mushrooming Smithfield, RI August 22, 2020; 10:00 – 11:30 pm Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge August 20, 2020; 1:00 – 3:00 pm Smithfield, RI Come frolic and explore in the meadow on a August 29, 2020; 10:00 – 2:00 pm Join an Audubon naturalist to discover what lazy summer’s day. Nets and magnifiers will be creatures live in wetlands! Dip your net into a available as well as other fun items to explore Join Audubon for an introduction to mushrooms swamp to find water bugs and look for frogs, with. Look for butterflies, flowers, insects, birds, and fungus. Learn how to identify mushroom turtles, and birds. Have fun while learning about toads and other critters that live in the meadow. groups and species that grow in the area. the critters that make wetlands their home. Wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent Start inside with a presentation on mushroom Families will go home with an activity. For and lightweight long pants, socks and closed- identification and view wild mushrooms on safety guidelines and advance registration, visit toe shoes. For safety guidelines and advance display that were collected from other areas. the events calendar at www.asri.org. registration, visit the events calendar at www. Next, venture out for a hike in the woods with asri.org. an expert guide to find mushrooms growing in Audubon Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge, the wild. Please note: Collecting mushrooms on 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI; Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge Audubon properties is prohibited. Wear closed- Fee: $20/member adult/child pair, $7 for each 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI toe shoes, socks and long pants and dress for additional member; $25/non-member adult/ Fee: $5/member child; $7/non-member child. the weather. For safety guidelines and advance child pair, $10 each additional non-member. Ages: 3 and up. Register online through the registration, visit the events calendar at www. Children 3 years and under are free. Ages: events calendar at asri.org. asri.org. Appropriate for children ages 6 to 11 with other family members welcome. Register in advance Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge through the events calendar at asri.org. 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI Fee: $30/member, $40/non-member. Ages: Adult. Register online through the events 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI 02917-2600 calendar at asri.org. Phone: (401) 949-5454 • Fax: (401) 949-5788 • www.asri.org • email: [email protected]

The Smithfield Times | 31 Inside The Brown Bag | By Peg Brown The Pandemic Revival (of the All-American Drive-In)

Not drive-in religious celebrations, plant business in Camden, NJ, created something drive-in medical clinics, or drive-in, the “modern” drive-in model out of different. Cars drive-thru dining ... but the drive-in necessity. Apparently, his mother was, now provided known to us of a certain generation let’s just say, unable to fit in a “regular” perfect cocoons characterized by a large screen, stuck movie theatre seat. Richard plunked her for first dates. in a field outside of town, showing – into the front seat of his auto, nailed two I’m not sure I remember any films I honestly – Grade B movies. Who could sheets to trees in his back yard, placed a saw in the 1960s at the drive-in, but I have anticipated that in this age of 1928 Kodak projector on the hood of his do recall it was a place for making out, streaming services, Apple TV, Netflix, car, a radio behind the sheets and Wa La, hanging out, checking out who was Amazon Prime and any number of other family problem solved, iconic American dating whom for discussion in the girls’ on-line venues, that Americans might invention created. bathroom on Monday morning, and, actually once again pile in a car and of course, ordering hot dogs from the drive to an open field to watch a movie? Hollingshead’s concept, patented in concession, and washing them down 1933, debuted in Pennsauken Township, with purloined contraband beer under According to recent reports, that’s NJ, with 400 40’X50’ inclined dirt the cover of steamed up windows. Little exactly what is happening – as all spaces, showing the British film, “Wives wonder that drive-ins developed less things that smack of nostalgia and Beware,” for 25 cents a car. Key flattering labels, such as “passion pits”. support social distancing are viewed marketing language: “The whole family with renewed affection. When Gov. is welcome regardless of how noisy the As parents in the 1970s and 80s, the Andrew Cuomo, leader of one of the children are.” Between the 1930s and advent of cable, VCRs, movie rentals, most hard-hit states, said in May, “Talk World War II, drive-ins spread slowly the energy crisis, day light savings about going back to the future ... Back to across the United States. Interestingly time, urban sprawl, shopping malls, and drive-in movie theaters – I’m OK with Rhode Island had one of the first the increase in the price of large lots that.” The drive-in thus received official 10 to open in the US in 1937 – The of land, essentially eliminated drive- approval as a “low-risk recreational Providence Drive-In opened in July of ins as a form of family entertainment. activity.” that year. Coupled with the growing questionable reputation of many drive-ins resorting Perhaps the Governor didn’t know that For us, the post-war Baby Boomers, the the R and X rated films to survive, the the drive-in is truly an iconic American drive-in was a family ritual. Spurred by drive-in died not so slow a death. invention. There is evidence that a the post war boom in the sale of cars, the There have been revivals. Boutique partial drive-in existed in Guadalupe, growth in young families, the continued drive-ins with food trucks have opened, NM, as early as April of 1915, need to be frugal (entertainment nostalgia has driven some renewed premiering a spaghetti western, “Bags requiring no baby-sitters), children interest, but most of the existing drive- of Gold.” It closed just one year later. were dressed in their pajamas, piled ins are in the weather-friendly South and A second attempt at viewing movies into the auto, and transported to the Southwest. The challenges for success from a car was carried out in 1921 in edge of town where they could access a are not only the cost of land, but the downtown Comanche, TX, with cars playground (there were always swings), enhanced technology that can require parked bumper to bumper on the main run around, be treated to concession expensive digital equipment. street. However, the prototype that junk food (popcorn was 10 cents), and resulted in the first American patent of fall asleep listening to the voices of Cary The most recent attempt at pulling the drive-in concept occurred more than Grant or John Wayne echoing through a people back to the drive-in venue was a decade later. small tin speaker hanging on the driver’s a simulcast of a Garth Brooks concert side of the roll down window. in 300 theatres on June 27, 2020 ($100 According to legend, in 1932 Richard a car). Billed as an opportunity for M. Hollingshead, Jr., heir to a chemical As teenagers, drive-ins became, well, artists to “get back to playing live music

32 | AUGUST 2020 without the uncertainty of what would be the result to us and the community,” it received mixed reviews. Apparently singing “Friends in Low Places” in the front seat of your car just wasn’t quite the same as blending your voice with 10,000 others. A Summer Brunch Recipe Will COVID 19 contribute to a sustained revival? Not according to one article which recently stated: “Drive-ins are submitted by an exercise in desperation rather than nostalgia.” Susan Dragon

Author’s notes: of Smithfield! • During the peak of drive-in popularity, Rhode Island had 15. We are now down to two – the Rustic Tri View Drive-in just off route 146 in North Smithfield, and the Misquamicut Drive-in Theatre in Westerly. According to Quiche Lorraine the website, The Rustic, opened in 1951, charges $27 a car, and provides sound through FM radio. Misquamicut, Ingredients: not quite so traditional, has been showing largely classical 1 9-inch unbaked pie shell, chilled and second run movies fairly consistently in the summer 2 tbsp. Butter or margarine since 2013 for $15 a car, using stacked cargo containers 1 large onion, sliced as a screen. Both RI drive-ins should be called for 12 slices bacon updated schedules. 4 eggs • The high-water mark for drive-ins came in 1958 when 2 cups light cream over 4,000 were operating in the US. In 2019, according ¾ tsp. salt the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association, there were just 305. pinch nutmeg pinch cayenne pepper 1/8 tsp. pepper 1 cup grated natural Swiss cheese (1/4 lb.) Directions:

Saute onions in butter until soft, but not brown. Fry bacon until crisp. Drain and break into small pieces. Combine eggs, cream, salt, nutmeg, cayenne and pepper. Beat with rotary beater until well mixed. Sprinkle pie shell with bacon. Spread sautéed onions over bacon. Cover with grated Swiss cheese. Pour egg mixture in carefully. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 300 degrees and bake 40 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Serve at once, cut into wedges. Makes 6 servings.

Suggested Menu: Quiche Lorraine Tomato Salad (olive oil & parsley) Bread Sticks White Wine

The Smithfield Times | 33 by David A. Huestis, Stargazing | Historian, Skyscrapers, Inc. A Shower of Stardust Prospects for the August Perseid Meteor Shower

After more than 45 years of enjoying senior editor of Sky and Telescope the splendor of the heavens, I still look Magazine, makes this analogy. “The forward to a simple yet rewarding little nuggets in Grape-Nuts cereal observing experience watching “burning (see accompanying photo) are a rocks” falling from the sky. I’m referring close match to the size of particles to a meteor shower. There are about that typically create meteors in a dozen major meteor showers and our atmosphere. ” The Perseids hundreds of minor ones. During August are usually green, red or orange in we are fortunate to encounter the color. And some members of this second most productive (the December shower are bright and often produce Geminids are better) meteor display of exploding fireballs. Also, fireballs the year – the Perseids. These meteors may be more prevalent as we are a stream of particles stripped off approach morning twilight. Why? At Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle’s surface by that time, we are hitting the meteor the solar wind and left in orbit around stream head-on! Maximize your the Sun. Annually the Earth passes viewing opportunity by finding a dark through this stream and we experience a sky location well away any from light display of shooting stars. pollution.

For 2020 the Perseids peak on the night The best way to observe any meteor of August 11-12, with the best time to shower is to get comfortable on a observe as many meteors as possible chaise lounge or blanket. During the are unable to observe on peak night, try between midnight and dawn. This Perseids you must protect yourself from your luck on the nights before and after. shooting star display is the northern the hungry mosquitoes. (Last summer You won’t see 60 meteors per hour, but hemisphere’s most widely observed the EEE virus prevented many of us you may catch a couple of dozen or so. meteor shower because people spend from observing the Perseids. I prefer And if you more time with outdoor activities during the cold December Geminids any day!) happen late summer. Unfortunately, a last Perseus is well up in the northeast sky to see a quarter Moon rises around midnight after midnight. Use the accompanying stationary not far from the radiant point in the sky map to locate this star pattern meteor constellation Perseus from where the above the northeast horizon. If you can (think meteors appear to emanate. The Moon’s identify the constellation of Cassiopeia, about it – brightness will somewhat reduce the which looks like an “M” or “W” tipped it’s headed number of meteors to be seen. While the sideways, then you’re close enough. directly at you), don’t forget to duck! Perseid shower can produce between As Perseus rises higher the number of 60 and 90 meteors per hour, around meteors will increase. Don’t simply And finally, while you are out there southern New England we can usually concentrate your gaze in that direction. under the stars please take notice of expect to see no more than 60 shooting The meteors can appear anywhere in the Jupiter and Saturn. They will be located stars per hour. Moonlight will further sky, so constantly scan as much of the to the east (left) of the teapot asterism reduce that number this year. heavens as possible without straining that is the constellation Sagittarius. Next your neck. If the weather cooperates month I will provide a brief observer’s The Perseids, no larger than a and you have the time, continue your guide to these beautiful distant worlds. thumbnail, blaze across the heavens at observing session until dawn’s early 134,222 miles per hour and completely light overwhelms the stars. Keep your eyes to the skies. disintegrate as they plunge through our David A. Huestis atmosphere. In fact, J. Kelly Beatty, If the weather does not cooperate or you 1 Image and quote used with permission.

34 | AUGUST 2020 The Smithfield Times | 35 Furever Homes Needed!

Amelia STANLEY TREE SERVICE INC Amelia and Ario both came 275 George Washington Highway from the biggest Smithfield, RI 02917 hoarding case in Providence “Your Local Tree Professional Since 1986” history. There were over 100 cats in this hot, dirty, trash filled home. It took Amelia some time to come out from hiding but now she is exploring the room, playing with toys, and seeking out a little bit of human affection. She would do well in a home with other cats!

Ario HIGH QUALITY WORK

Ario is a AT REASONABLE RATES handsome 1 year Residential • Commercial • Municipal old orange male. He is very sweet Tree Removal Specialist • All Sizes & Types but still scared. Stump Grinding • Pruning • Spraying He allows gentle Mosquito and Tick Control human contact and affection as Plant Health Care long as the person is patient. He is currently in a foster home working on trust and sociability. Considering his heartbreaking past, he is doing well and making progress each day. We think 231-TREE he will make a great companion! He just needs some time FREE ESTIMATE by a licensed arborist to adjust and learn that humans are loving. He also would Fully Insured do great in a home with other cats. Ario is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE stanleytree.com Free Removal of Palm Trees

36 | AUGUST 2020 Hunter Insurance understands the insurance needs of local businesses. Trust a local agency with the experience to tailor a customized insurance plan for your business. For a complimentary review call 401.769.9500.

www.hunterinsurance.net

The Smithfield Times | 37 Remembering the Disco Era

By Jim Ignasher

By a show of hands, how many besides Even more famous was “Studio 54” Songs played me once enjoyed “disco dancing” in the located in Manhattan. The club, which on the radio 1970s? Come on, I know there’s more had once been a television sound studio, generally of you than that out there. I thought so. opened in 1977 and in a short time lasted became what was perhaps the number between I understand the reluctance to admit one disco in the country. Clientele three to four it, for it was a time when men wore included the rich and famous, and minutes, platform shoes, Polyester bell-bottoms, the parties inside became legendary. but the club and wide-lapel shirts, and ladies fashions People would stand in line for hours, versions could go on for ten minutes had issues too. Then there were the some wearing outlandish outfits, others or longer. A case in point was “Love hairstyles where guys looked like they’d scantly clad, all hoping to catch the to Love You Baby” by Donna Summer stuck their head out of a car window at eye of doormen and be allowed entry. which played for almost seventeen 100 mph, and women sported big hair Sometimes pretty girls were told to leave minutes, and was considered to be quite and “disco curls”. When I see photos of their dates behind, and they did, just for racy for the time. myself from those days of yore, I want to the bragging rights of saying they’d been go back in time and say to my younger there. Novelty disco songs were meant to be self, “What are you thinking?” What funny, yet they still had a great beat were any of us thinking? The word “disco” by the way, derives to dance to. Perhaps one of the best from the word “discothèque”, which known was “Disco Duck” by Rick Dees Satire aside, I actually have fond refers to a time when round Vinyl and his Cast of Idiots, which featured memories of what’s referred to as “The records, “discs”, were played by disc- a Donald Duck voice with back-up Disco Era”, the height of which came jockeys in nightclubs for musical singers. Another was “My Name Is into being in the late 1970s. Perhaps entertainment. Eugene”, by Crazy Joe and the Variable the movie which best defined the time Speed Band, which was about “a cool was “Saturday Night Fever”, released in “Saturday Night Fever” wasn’t the only dude in a loose mood” who couldn’t get 1977 starring John Travolta who played movie to feature a disco theme. There a date no matter how hard he tried. And a store clerk who was a disco sensation was also the musical comedy “Thank then there was the country-western song on weekends. The movie’s soundtrack God It’s Friday”, and the lesser known “Disco Sucks!” by Chuck Wagon and included such hits as “Stayin’ Alive”, “Disco Fever”, both released in 1978, The Wheels. “Night Fever”, and “You Should Be as well as “The Music Machine”, and Dancing”, by the Bee Gees, “Disco “Disco Godfather”, released in 1979. Some claim the end of the Disco Era Inferno” by The Tramps, and “A Fifth of Then there was “Can’t Stop The Music” began on July 12, 1979, (a.k.a. “Disco Beethoven”, by Walter Murphy, just to released in 1980 starring “The Village Demolition Night”), when a collection name a few. People”. of disco records where blown up with pyrotechnics as part of a publicity stunt It’s interesting to note that according Two other movies, “Roller Boogie” and at Comiskey Park in Chicago. The event to Wikipedia, the movie was based on “Skatetown”, both released in 1979, culminated in a riot as people rushed a 1976 magazine article about New highlighted the brief fad of “roller disco” onto the field after the detonation. York disco night life written by a rock which involved disco dancing on roller journalist who in 1996 admitted that the skates. (Yep, that was really a thing.) Disco officially died in the early 1980s, story was a complete fabrication. and while some said “good riddance”, I wonder how many people in their 60’s others mourned its passing. Now, “Saturday Night Fever” was filmed in today are being treated for old roller decades later, the discos are gone, but the Bay Ridge section of Brooklyn, at a disco injuries suffered in their youth. fans can fondly recall younger days club called “2001 Odyssey”, which after when they could still dance the night the movie’s release became one of the I suppose one could say disco music away and “get down” with their “bad most popular disco destinations in the came in three forms; the radio version, selves” without needing a chiropractor in tri-state area. the club version, and the novelty version. the morning.

38 | AUGUST 2020 Spring is coming. Celebrate by going outdoors!So are the mosquitoes.

Celebrate by goingClaim your independence outdoors! from pesky mosquitoes and ticks with Mosquito Squad’s seasonally recurring service. Our licensed and trained technicians will treat your property everyTicks are 14-21 days with a solution proven to eliminate 85-90% of mosquitoes.Active Claim your independence from pesky mosquitoesNow! and$ ticks with Mosquito Squad’s seasonallyTicks recurring are service. Our licensed50 and OFF trained technicians will treat your property everySeasonal 14-21 daysMosquito with & aTick Protection Package Active Valid only at participating locations. First time customers only. Limit one coupon per property. solution proven to eliminate Now!85-90% of mosquitoes. Not valid with other offers. $ Call The Squad for new client specials & details on 50 OFF Tick & Mosquito Control Programs! Seasonal Mosquito & l Natura ll- Mosquito Squad Tick Protection Package A Ask$ about our All-Natural available! Valid only50 at participating locations.OFF First time customers For more information, only. LimitSeasonal one coupon per Mosquito property. Not valid & with other including our guarantee, offers. Expires 07/17/2020. check out our website All-naturalTick Protection Package program!401-441-5444mosquitosquad.com. Valid only at participating locations. First time customers For more information, only. Limit one coupon per property. Not valid with other NCRhodeIsland.MosquitoSquad.comincluding our guarantee, offers. Expires 07/17/2020. check out our website Call The Squad formosquitosquad.com. a Free Estimate 401-441-5444 Call Theor visit Squad MosquitoSquad.com for a Free Estimate 401-441-5444NCRhodeIsland.MosquitoSquad.com or visit MosquitoSquad.com Or Email:[email protected]

Greenville Water District P.O. Box 595, Greenville, RI 02828 Phone: 231-1433 Fax: 231-1435

Help us conserve water this summer. How does this help the water utility? Please help us conserve water by adhering to our voluntary odd – even It helps the water utility manage peak demand more outside watering schedule. Odd numbered homes should water on odd e ciently. When everyone is using water at the same numbered days and even numbered homes should water on even time, system resources such as pumping and storage numbered days. can be strained, resulting in increased cost of delivery. Fix leaking toilets. Doing your part ensures even distribution of water in A leaking toilet is the number one culprit for higher than normal water summer months when usage is at its highest. bills. Leak detection tablets are available free of charge at the Greenville Water District. When you suspect a leaking toilet, this simple test could save you from a $1000 surprise on your water bill. How can my toilet be leaking, I see no water? Leaking toilets are usually transparent to the 1/8 inch leak can waste ...... 1,183,992 gallons of water @60psi homeowner. The leak takes place in the back portion Planting a new lawn? or closet of the toilet, some leaks can be heard and Want to save big bucks on your future water bill? Layer at least 5” of some cannot be heard. Routine annual inspections of organic material as a base for your new lawn. This will decrease your the closet are recommended. Usually a small future water bills substantially. The price you pay for the organic adjustment or $10 repair kit is all that is necessary to material will pay for itself in savings in less than two water bills. repair the toilet.

28 July 2019 The Smithfield Times | 39 Payne’s Picks | By Sarah Payne August 2020

Movie Releases this character was going to have to go Although the premise is dark, the through physically and emotionally.” execution is fun and campy. All I See Is You – August 8 (Prime) Speaking about how triggering the experience of filming was, she noted, “I Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Blake Lively and Jason Clarke star in this brought all of my ancestors home with Fire Saga – Netflix psychological romantic drama directed me. And we were filming most of the by Marc Foster (Monster’s Ball, World stuff at night on a plantation, and I felt Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams’ War Z). The film originally premiered everything.” latest film seemed to drop out of the at the 2016 Toronto International Film blue without much fanfare on Netflix Festival and then was released to just Movie Review last month. Eurovision Song Contest is 250 theaters in October 2017, which a comedy about two aspiring Icelandic may explain why you’ve never heard of The Dressmaker – Prime musicians who land the opportunity of it until now. Lively plays a blind woman a lifetime to compete on Eurovision. If who regains her sight after surgery and Theaters are only just starting to get you’ve seen any of Ferrell’s movies, you discovers unsettling details about her life back up and running, which means I had have a pretty good idea of what you’re with her husband (played by Clarke). In to rely solely on streaming services to getting into. I chuckled a couple of times, 2017, Emily Yoshida at Vulture called it get my new movie fix this past month. but the humor is definitely juvenile. I also “One of the Strangest, Most Satisfying The first one I watched was 2015’sThe find it a bit odd that Ferrell is 52 years Surprises of the Fall,” and continued, Dressmaker, starring Kate Winslet and old and still playing the bachelor living at “as a psychological not-quite thriller, Liam Hemsworth. Despite the A-list home, struggling to leave the nest. How it’s consistently entertaining; as a visual actors, you’ve probably never heard of much longer is he going to be able to exercise, it’s more adventurous than most it because the film only had a theatrical keep up this schtick? Between the non- would be.” Jeannette Catsoulis of New release in Australia and New Zealand. stop poking fun of Icelandic stereotypes York Times wrote: “‘All I See Is You’ Though it received mixed reviews, The and the lack of chemistry between Ferrell is halfway through before something Dressmaker earned 13 nominations and McAdams, I give this movie a hard resembling a plot kicks in, and even then from the Australian Academy of Cinema pass. this limp, shape-shifting psychodrama and Television Arts proves unable to sell it with anything Awards. Winslet plays a approaching coherence.” dressmaker who returns to her small Australian Antebellum – August 21 hometown to take care of her ailing mother As of this writing, Antebellum is set for and take revenge on the wide release this month, four months people who accused her after it’s originally planned release. of murder as a young Although, given the social and racial girl and banished her unrest that’s been playing out in the from her home. I really news these past few months, the timing enjoyed the quirkiness may have worked out perfectly. Janelle of the film – the trendy Monáe plays an author who finds herself 1950s fashion juxtaposed trapped in a horrifying reality on a with the bleak Australian plantation in the antebellum South. In an desert. Hemsworth plays interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Winslet’s love interest, Monáe said, “This is a project that is so and I was pleasantly of the times. I knew the responsibility surprised by their and the weight of it, and I knew what chemistry on screen.

40 | AUGUST 2020 Celebrating JASWELL’S Our 121st Farmstand & Bakery Season! Now open for online and phone ordering with curbside pick-up! Our Fresh All-Natural LEMONADE now available. Fresh picked blueberries, corn, squashes, cucumbers, tomatoes and more! Try our donut ice cream sandwiches, fresh baked pies, pastries & cookies, plus our apple cider and blueberry donuts! (Sorry, no in-store purchases or pick-your-own fruits at this time.) Please call 401-231-9043 for more information. 50 Swan Road, Smithfield, RI www.jaswellsfarm.com

Insurance Employment Opportunity in Smithfield, Rhode Island Personal Lines Account Representative Individual must have 5+ years experience and have current Property/Casualty insurance license.

E-mail resume and salary requirements to [email protected]

The Smithfield Times | 41 Obituaries

Donald McKay June 6, 2020 543 Putnam Pike, Smithfield, RI 02828 www.robbinsfuneralhome.com 401-232-9600 • www.smithfieldtimesri.net

Thomas J. Lopatosky, Jr. – Owner, Operator [email protected] Joseph D. Pelli June 25, 2020 Ann Marie Donahue – Executive Editor www.thequinnfuneralhome.com [email protected]

Elaine S. Amoriggi – Creative Director, Design Charles A. “Charlie” Van Gorden Advertising and Sales June 29, 2020 www.andersonwinfield.net Camilla Spliid – [email protected] Grace Genereux – [email protected]

Writers Mary (Ruggieri) Nauman Harry Anderson July 16, 2020 Peg Brown www.nardolillofh.com Thomas D’Agostino Sophia DeJesus Jane Fusco Jim Gass Brittni Henderson David Huestis Calling Jim Ignasher Bea Lanzi all cooks! Paul Lonardo Diane L. Marolla Do you have a favorite Paul Palange recipe you’d like to share? Sarah Payne Ron Scopelliti Send it to us at www.smithfieldtimesri.net and Joe Siegel we’ll publish it in our magazine for all to enjoy! ––– Albert Tavakalov – Photographer Sandra Achille – Photo and Creative Contributer ––– The Smithfield Times does not assume any financial responsibility for typographical error in advertisements that have received final approval or are submitted camera ready.

42 | AUGUST 2020 You concentrate on life, we’ll get the mortgage part done. • First-Time Homebuyer Program • Credit education • Construction/Rehab Loans • VA/FHA Loans • Conventional loan financing • Jumbo Loans

Call . ­­.€ to set up an appointment with one of our mortgage specialists, or visit navigantcu.org/mortgage to learn more.

Federally insured by NCUA NMLS#462987

The Smithfield Times | 43 Smithfield Cranston North Smithfield 1 Garnett Lane 95 Sockanosset Cross Rd Suite 8 Suite 301 947 Victory Highway Greenville, RI 02828 Cranston, RI 02920 North Smithfield, RI 02896 (401) 349-4355 (401) 942-0300 (401) 762-2830

44 | AUGUST 2020