The Rhode Island Wave

10/09/2025

🇮🇹✨ Italian Person of the Year ✨🇮🇹

Join us on Thursday, October 23rd from 6:00–10:00 p.m. as we honor Anna Spadacenta Raccuia as our 2025 Italian Person of the Year!

🍝 Enjoy a full Italian buffet by Chef Paul, Chef Fredy and our amazing kitchen staff!

🎶 Live music by Tony “V” Vissicchio (You do not want to miss him!)

💲 Tickets are just $20 per person

📲 To reserve your spot, call or text John Paolillo at 203-376-2636

Come celebrate a night of delicious food, great music, and community as we recognize Anna for her contributions and spirit! ❤️🤍💚

Congratulations Anna!!

10/08/2025

Reminder: The Rhode Island Wave DEADLINE NOTICE for the November 2025 issue is Wednesday, October 29thth at 9pm. - https://mailchi.mp/rhodeislandwave/the-rhode-island-wave-deadline-notice-november2025

10/06/2025

Bunny lovers, check out this blue-eyed beauty Mr.Finn! He's a bunny lover's dream, he's oh so handsome, playful and lovable! If you have been thinking about adopting a bunny friend contact the North Kingstown Animal Shelter!! Their number is 401-910-8999. They have many to choose from. Finn and his friends can't wait to meet you!

09/28/2025

The October 2025 Issue of The Rhode Island Wave Is Online Now! - https://mailchi.mp/rhodeislandwave/october2025

The Rhode IslaWe are a passionate team of Rhode Island locals dedicated to sharing the incredible stories of our community. Every day, we feel honored and excited to bring you the latest news, heartwarming features, and inspiring profiles.

09/28/2025

Learn how one organization is tackling child literacy rates in Rhode Island by providing free books to children in need. In this Spotlight Interview, Dina from the Rhode Island Wave newspaper sits down with Jennifer Smith, the Executive Director of Books Are Wings, to discuss the critical mission of putting books into the hands of children and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
This interview offers a deep dive into the impactful work of Books Are Wings, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving child literacy. Jennifer Smith explains why access to books is crucial for a child's development, revealing the startling statistic that 61% of low-income households have no books at all. She discusses how Books Are Wings addresses this by distributing approximately 60,000 gently used books annually to children in Providence, Pawtucket, Woonsocket, and Central Falls.
Throughout the conversation, Jennifer highlights the link between early reading proficiency and future academic success, noting that children not meeting reading expectations by third grade are four times less likely to graduate high school. She outlines the various programs run by Books Are Wings, such as "Books All Year," and explains how schools and community organizations can partner with them. The interview also covers how individuals and companies can contribute, whether through donating gently used books, running a book drive, purchasing from their Amazon wish list, or providing financial support.
Finally, Jennifer shares exciting details about their annual fundraiser, "Bowling for Books," a fun community event designed to raise funds for their literacy programs. This conversation is a must-watch for anyone passionate about education, community service, and making a tangible difference in the lives of children.

SUPPORT BOOKS ARE WINGS
Learn more about how you can support child literacy in Rhode Island, donate books, or volunteer your time by visiting their website.
➡️ Website: https://www.booksarewings.org/

CONNECT WITH US
Stay up to date with our latest interviews and stories.
➡️ Rhode Island Wave: rhodeislandwave.com

09/28/2025

Discover the inspiring journey of Brian Savino, owner of Branlee Woodcrafts in North Scituate, Rhode Island. In this exclusive interview with the Rhode Island Wave Newspaper, Brian reveals how he transformed his lifelong woodworking hobby into a thriving local business that creates one-of-a-kind handcrafted pieces.
Learn about Brian's unique approach to woodworking, where he never follows plans and ensures no two pieces are ever identical. From his humble beginnings watching his father, a woodworking teacher, to his 20-year construction career that led him to this craft, Brian's story demonstrates the power of following your passion.
WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER IN THIS INTERVIEW:
Brian's transition from construction work to full-time woodworking after 15-20 years in the industry
How his father's influence as a woodworking teacher shaped his interest, even without formal instruction
The story behind Branlee Woodcrafts and its location at Frederickson Farm on Chopmist Hill Road
Brian's commitment to creating unique, never-repeated designs for cutting boards, lazy Susans, and custom furniture
The collaborative aspect of the business, featuring his wife Mandy's painting classes and artwork
Details about their laser engraving services for personalized pieces perfect for weddings and special occasions
Brian's customer service philosophy, including refinishing services for cutting boards and cheese boards
Operating hours (Thursday-Sunday, 11am-5pm) and the welcoming atmosphere of their workshop
Brian showcases several handcrafted pieces during the interview, including a black locust lazy Susan and a stunning chevron-pattern cutting board made from purple heartwood, maple, and teak. His dedication to local materials and sustainable practices, combined with affordable pricing ($25 cutting boards with lifetime refinishing), makes Branlee Woodcrafts a standout destination for custom woodwork in Rhode Island.
Whether you're interested in commissioning a conference table, purchasing a personalized charcuterie board, or simply supporting local craftsmanship, this interview provides valuable insights into the world of artisan woodworking and small business success.
Visit Branlee Woodcrafts at 985 Chopmist Hill Road, North Scituate, or explore their work online at branleewoodcrafts.org to see why customers choose handcrafted quality over mass-produced alternatives.
Connect with Branlee Woodcrafts:
Website: https://branleewoodcrafts.org
Phone: (401) 647-1509
Facebook:
Instagram:

09/25/2025

Laugh Out Loud for a Good Cause!
3rd Annual Comedy Fundraiser Featuring Elaine Pelino & Friends!
Sunday, November 9th 2-5pm
VFW Post 529, 351 Summer Street, Somerville, MA 02144
https://www.dilboyvfw529.com/
Email: [email protected] or Call: 617-666-5794

George Dilboy VFW Post 529 is located at 351Summer Street in Somerville, MA.Proudly serving veterans and the local community since 1920.Book our hall for your next event! Book An Event Post 529 Officers Commander Robert Hardy Jr.Quartermaster James Roderick Learn More  Upcoming Events Calendar Int...

09/24/2025

Discover the incredible story of John Perrotta, a Rhode Island comedian who turned his darkest moments into laughter and hope. In this candid interview, John shares how comedy became his lifeline through addiction, recovery, and personal transformation.
From serving 36 years as a correctional officer while performing stand-up comedy at night, to battling gambling, alcohol, and co***ne addictions, John's story is one of resilience and redemption. Now 8.5 years clean, he's channeling his experiences into his memoir "My Sense of Humor: How Comedy Saved My Life" and continues to bring laughter to audiences across New England through his Comedy Factory RI.
KEY TOPICS COVERED:
The role of humor in overcoming addiction and trauma
John's journey from Navy service to 36 years in corrections
How comedy provided an outlet during his darkest times
The inspiration behind writing his memoir with his bestselling author son
Comedy Factory RI's mission to train new comedians and entertain audiences
The therapeutic power of laughter for both performers and audiences
John's upcoming shows and where to find his book
INSPIRATION FOR RECOVERY:
John's story demonstrates that no matter how many times you fall, you can keep getting up. His memoir serves not only as entertainment but as inspiration for others struggling with addiction, and for family members trying to understand their loved ones' battles.
ABOUT JOHN PERROTTA:
34-year veteran of stand-up comedy
Founder of Comedy Factory RI
Author of "My Sense of Humor: How Comedy Saved My Life"
Regular columnist for The Rhode Island Wave newspaper
Advocate for addiction recovery and mental health awareness
Whether you're seeking inspiration, understanding addiction, or simply want to hear an incredible life story told with humor and heart, this interview offers valuable insights into the healing power of comedy and the possibility of redemption.
CONNECT WITH JOHN:
Comedy Factory RI: ComedyFactoryRI.com
Book shows: 401-639-7726
Book available on Amazon in paperback, hardcover, Kindle, and Audible formats
Subscribe to The Rhode Island Wave for more inspiring community stories and follow our Spotlight Interview series featuring remarkable individuals making a difference in Rhode Island and beyond.

09/24/2025

Wondering if advertising with The Rhode Island Wave gets results? Hear directly from one of our long-term partners, comedian and columnist John Perrotta, about how our publication has been instrumental in growing his business and promoting his comedy shows. If you're looking for effective local advertising in Rhode Island, this video is for you.
John shares his firsthand experience of how advertising in The Rhode Island Wave has directly translated into audience members at his shows. From people mentioning they saw his ad to the success of his column, "Funny Talk with John Perrotta" this testimonial highlights the real-world impact and reach of our paper. Discover how our print and digital presence helps local businesses and artists connect with the community, build their brand, and see tangible results. We also discuss how The Wave provides a platform for both established headliners and new, up-and-coming talent, giving them valuable exposure that makes a significant difference in their careers. For any business in Rhode Island looking to increase visibility, this success story demonstrates the power of partnering with a trusted local publication.
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WHAT'S INSIDE THIS VIDEO:
• Real-world success story from advertising in The Rhode Island Wave.
• How print advertising drives attendance to local events.
• The value of a dedicated column for building a personal brand.
• The role of The Rhode Island Wave in supporting the local arts and comedy scene.
• Why The Rhode Island Wave is a go-to for effective local marketing.
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Ready to grow your business and connect with the Rhode Island community? Visit our website to learn more about our advertising and marketing opportunities and see how we can help you achieve your goals.
➡️ Learn more: http://rhodeislandwave.com/advertise--marketing.html
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CONNECT WITH US:
• Website: http://rhodeislandwave.com
• Latest Issue: https://online.fliphtml5.com/nwhhm/uqom/
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRhodeIslandWave/videos

09/23/2025

Reminder: The Rhode Island Wave DEADLINE NOTICE for the October 2025 issue is Wednesday, September 24th at 9pm. - https://mailchi.mp/rhodeislandwave/the-rhode-island-wave-deadline-notice-october2025

09/23/2025

Discover how the Menopause Education Center is revolutionizing menopause support for women, partners, and workplaces. In this eye-opening interview, founder Rachel Anne shares her personal journey that led to creating comprehensive menopause education programs and explains why Rhode Island became the first state to enact workplace protections for women experiencing menopause.
Rachel Anne, speaking from Maui where she's developing menopause retreat programs, discusses the alarming statistics that drove her mission: the highest divorce rates during menopause years, women leaving careers at their peak, and the devastating link between undiagnosed hormonal depression and su***de rates among menopausal women. Her story begins with her own frustrating experience at age 45, when even her female doctor dismissed her symptoms, leading her to fight for proper hormone testing and mental health support.
The interview reveals how menopause has been systematically ignored despite affecting every woman, with Rachel Anne explaining that this biological certainty has been shrouded in shame around aging and women's reluctance to ask for help. She emphasizes that today's 50-year-old women are different from previous generations, noting that "50 really is the new 30."
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
• Rhode Island's groundbreaking menopause workplace protection law
• The real financial impact of menopause on companies (measurable costs in absenteeism and productivity)
• Why seasoned female employees are worth protecting (replacement costs can be three times their annual salary)
• Comprehensive resources available at menopauseclasses.com for women, partners, and employers
Rachel Anne provides practical advice for women navigating menopause: don't accept dismissive doctors, advocate for yourself, research your options, and explore telehealth companies specializing in menopause care like Mini, Myalloy, and Winona. For partners, she emphasizes the importance of understanding and support during this transition.
Connect with the Menopause Education Center:
• Website: menopauseclasses.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 888-724-1241

09/23/2025

Discover expert insurance advice from Rhode Island native Zach Bosco of Lathrop Insurance in this comprehensive interview. Whether you're buying your first home, starting a business, or looking to protect your current property, this interview covers essential insurance strategies that could save you thousands in potential damages.
Zach, a 28-year-old URI graduate who's dedicated his career to the insurance industry, shares invaluable insights about flood insurance, damage prevention, and smart coverage decisions for Rhode Island residents. Learn about innovative water shutoff devices that can prevent catastrophic flooding, understand flood zone mappings, and discover why even homes outside designated flood zones might need flood insurance protection.
KEY TOPICS COVERED:
• Water damage prevention strategies and smart home devices
• Understanding flood zones and FEMA mapping in Rhode Island
• Why flood insurance matters even outside designated flood zones
• Commercial insurance options for Rhode Island businesses
• Home inspection processes and what insurance companies look for
• Cost-effective insurance solutions for homeowners
ESSENTIAL TIPS YOU'LL LEARN:
• How water shutoff devices can provide substantial insurance discounts
• The difference between standard homeowner's policies and flood coverage
• When mortgage companies require flood insurance vs. optional coverage
• Flood insurance costs: $400-$800 annually for standard coverage
• Why filing claims is always worth attempting, even when coverage seems uncertain
This interview is perfect for Rhode Island homeowners, prospective buyers, real estate professionals, and business owners who want to make informed insurance decisions. Zach's practical approach focuses on both protection and prevention, helping you understand not just what insurance to buy, but how to avoid needing it in the first place.
Ready to protect your property? Contact Zach Bosco at Lathrop Insurance: 401-596-2525 (office) or 401-714-2774 (cell). Visit lathropinsurance.com for comprehensive coverage solutions.
CONNECT WITH US:
Website: https://therhodeislandwave.com/