JANUARY AQUIDNECK ISLAND LIVING

© Best Version Media 

AQUIDNECK ISLAND 

JANUARY 2023 

Living 

Ashley Bendiksen 

and Heather Jensen 

of Island Youth Coaching 

PHOTO BY SARA COONEY 

LOCATION: WINTER WONDERLAND IGLOO, 

THE REEF RESTAURANT, NEWPORT


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2 AQUIDNECK ISLAND LIVING

HELLO READERS, 

Happy New Year!! Every year after the fun, fireworks and 

champagne toasts are over, many of us use this time to 

reflect on the year gone by and we take stock and plan 

new courses of action for the new year. We call it "making 

a New Year's resolution!" I've given up on those and 

instead I think about what I hope to achieve in the coming 

year. Where would I like to be by December 31, 2024 and 

what will I need to do to get there? I know it seems I'm jumping ahead but 

I like to have a large goal so I can break it down over the year into small 

accomplishments rather than some frivolous resolution I will probably never 

keep. I start by making a new vision board for the year to get my mind in 

that positive space. Or if you're like my husband and daughters, you start 

your year by doing the Polar Plunge! Whatever it is that sets you on your 

new path for the year ahead, I wish you the best in all aspects of your life. 

Cheers. 

Tanja M. Lynch, Publisher 


EXPERT 

CONTRIBUTORS 

To learn about becoming the exclusive Expert 

Contributor in your field, contact Tanja Lynch 

at TLynch@BestVersionMedia.com 

HELLO AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

I'm beyond excited to say hello this month for many 

reasons... First, ahem, YES that's ME on the cover! While 

I have so much to be grateful for, one highlight of 2022 

certainly is the launch of my second business. I won't 

spoil the article... just go give it a read! I also love this 

time of year. I enjoy reflecting on the year past and 

envisioning what I want for the year ahead. I used to write very detailed 

goals, but today I prefer to come up with three broad aspirations, for 

example, vitality, expansion, alignment. These then become a filter 

for my choices and the 'how' usually unfolds naturally. I also choose 

a personal theme word for the year - a trait or characteristic I want to 

embody. Oh, and one favorite tradition: I write myself a letter to myself 

to open on December 31st. A friend challenged me to do this once and 

I've never stopped. Whatever you do, know that I'm sending good vibes 

your way and can't wait to keep celebrating our community in the year 

ahead. 

To advertise with us this year or suggest a story, email me at 

abendiksen@bestversionmedia.com 

EXPERT BUILDERS 

Innovative Construction Inc. 

Office: (401) 624-4505 

295 Main Rd. 

Tiverton, RI 02878 

www.iciofamerica.com 

INSURANCE EXPERTS 

John Andrade Insurance Agency, Inc. 

Office: (401) 253-6505 

Fax: (401) 253-5070 

559 Hope Street, P.O. Box 8 

Bristol, RI 02809 

www.johnandradeins.com 

Stayin 'toasty,' 

Ashley Bendiksen, Content Coordinator 

PUBLICATION TEAM 

PUBLISHER Tanja Melendez Lynch 

CONTENT COORDINATOR Ashley Bendiksen 

DESIGNER Heidi Jones 

DESIGNER 

CONTRIBUTING 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

EXPERTS IN REAL ESTATE 

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Office: (401) 849-3000 

37 Bellevue Avenue 

Newport, RI 02840 

www.gustavewhite.com 

Heidi Jones 

Sara Cooney 

ADVERTISING/SPONSORSHIPS 

We thank our advertising partners/sponsors that make this magazine possible. 

Become a sponsor, connect with our readers, and enjoy the benefits & perks of 

being at the heart of our community! Contact me for more information on how 

you can become a part of your community publication. 

Tanja Lynch, Publisher 

Instagram @newportneighboraquidneckliving 

. Facebook @newportneighbors-bestversionmedia 

EXPERTS IN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 

Patrick’s Residential Management Services 

Office: (401) 849-8020 

136 W. Main Rd. 

Middletown, RI 02842 

www.patricksri.com 

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content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2023. Best Version Media. All rights reserved. 

JANUARY 2023 3


Heather and Ashley inside 

The Reef Restaurant 

Photo by Sara Cooney 

Ashley Bendiksen and Heather Jensen 

BY TANJA LYNCH PHOTO BY SARA COONEY 

Meet Ashley Bendiksen and Heather Jensen - 

residents of Newport and co-owners of Island 

Youth Coaching. The two share similar passions, 

interests, and life missions. They love Newport, 

love seeking adventures and trying new things, 

are passionate about personal development, actively give 

back, and uniquely, share a mission to empower youth. 

Ashley is originally from Fairhaven, MA where she grew up and 

attended secondary school. However, she’s been spending time 

on the island for more than 15 years. She says she fell in love with 

Newport during a time of healing. “I faced a lot of struggles in my 

adolescence, including a cycle of abusive relationships and trauma 

that left me homeless and a college dropout. As I was rebuilding 

my life, I found myself on Easton’s Beach often. It became a place of 

renewal for me and Newport has felt like home ever since,” she says. 

As time evolved, Newport also became the perfect location 

for her to return to school - this time as a new transfer student 

at Salve Regina University. She’d spent years rebuilding both 

her life and her resume, discovering her unique skill and 

passion for activism, advocacy, and social justice. Then in 

2013, Ashley graduated as Valedictorian with a Bachelor’s 

in Administration of Justice. She later moved to Newport 

permanently and has been actively involved since - running 

her business, volunteering, contributing to this magazine, 

and even winning Miss Rhode Island for America in 2021! 

Heather grew up in the small residential town of Windham, 

NH, and later earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology 

with a minor in Psychology from Illinois Wesleyan University. 

Following graduation, she moved to Boston and began 

her career in social services working for the Northeastern 

Family Institute at a long-term residential care program for 

adolescents with mental health and behavioral struggles. She 

also gradually began spending more time in Newport. 

“After completing my Master’s in School Counseling, I started to 

think more about where I might want to spend the next chapter 

of my life and it became clear to me Newport was that place. 

I was drawn to the charm of a tight-knit coastal community 

along with the vibrancy that Aquidneck Island offers. I love 

always having things to do around town, whether it’s running a 

race, taking a class, or attending the many events that happen 

throughout the year. I purchased my first home in Middletown, 

RI in June 2014, eventually moving to Newport in April 2018.” 

Ashley and Heather first met while serving on the Board of Directors 

of the Women’s Resource Center of Newport & Bristol Counties. 

This evolved into a friendship outside of board meetings where the 

two discovered they had a lot in common. This included quickly 

realizing their shared passion and talent for working with youth. 

Ashley has been speaking and consulting professionally in schools 

for the past 15 years - educating teens, educators, and parents 

on topics such as healthy relationships, mental wellness, and 

social emotional development. She tours the U.S. year-round! 

She was even acquired by one of the country’s top youth speaker 


agencies meaning she's one of the best in the nation. “I feel 

blessed to help young people feel less alone, while also giving 

them hope, encouragement, and importantly, practical tools. 

I’ve mastered how to address difficult topics in ways that feel 

empowering. Honestly, I’m the speaker I needed to hear as a teen. 

I feel very humbled to reach so many youth today,” she says. 

Heather has been working for 20 years with youth and families, 

offering everything from counseling, transitional, and college 

prep services to supporting students with varying mental 

health and learning differences. She presently works as the 

Director of Transition Services at Middlebridge School - an 

independent boarding school in Narragansett, RI. “Much of 

my day is centered around helping students identify and make 

informed, educated decisions about their post-secondary goals. 

My hope is to empower my students to take charge of their 

lives and embrace their individual learning styles. I encourage 

them to truly understand themselves and who they are, and to 

know what helps them to be most successful,” says Heather. 

Needless to say, Ashley and Heather found a lot to talk about. 

“We know and see the struggles young people face and we 

also see how much of an impact we make as positive adults 

in their lives. Then one day, we were walking Second Beach 

imagining how we might help more youth in our community. 

A year later, Island Youth Coaching was born,” Ashley says. 

The idea came to combine forces and form an agency specializing 

in life coaching for teens and young adults on Aquidneck Island. 

They explain that present-day adolescent anxiety rates are 

at all-time highs. Many feel overwhelmed and struggle with 

confidence, self-esteem, peer issues, unhealthy dating, emotional 

management, and academic pressure. Life coaching is a proven 

approach. It’s goal-centered, forward-focused, builds skills, 

and helps one discover their fullest potential. Also, many young 

people dislike traditional therapy. Life coaching offers a mentor - a 

trusted confidant, guide, and role model who’s in their corner. 

Both say that having a life coach or mentor during their own 

adolescence would have been transformational. “I struggled with 

anxiety, depression, dating violence, bullying, peer pressure, 

self-esteem issues, you name it. Worse, I felt devastatingly 

alone,” says Ashley. “I didn’t believe I had anyone I could talk 

to, so I turned to seriously unhealthy coping mechanisms 

and my life fell apart. Today, I’m thriving, and it’s clear that 

I simply lacked guidance and skills. It’s why I speak to and 

coach teens for a living. I see the need and impact.” 

Selected for the 2022 RI Startup Week Pitch Competition at Innovate Newport 


Ashley tours the country speaking to high school students 

Heather agrees. “As I’ve navigated through significant trials 

and periods of growth in my life, I’ve reflected on the things 

I wish I had learned earlier. I didn’t have a mentor, or really a 

way to even identify what I could benefit from working on. I 

didn’t know there was a healthier, happier way to be. Now, 

my mission is to use the multitude of skills I’ve acquired 

both personally and through my work to support, guide, 

and empower young adults. I knew from a young age that 

working with youth was my calling and I have dedicated the 

entirety of my adult life to the pursuit of this,” she says. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of how Island Youth Coaching 

works: It starts with an initial, no-cost intake followed by 

a comprehensive trial month. At the end of the month, 

they offer an assessment, custom recommendations, and 

discuss a continued six-month commitment. Additionally, 

they offer an array of college consultation services. 

Ashley and Heather love what they do. They practice what they 

preach and are outstanding role models. They know how to help 

young people navigate life’s challenges and decisions, and also 

see that any level of success, impact, adventure, and experience 

in life is possible for them. And they also love Newport. 

“I feel like I live in a dream,” says Ashley. “I never fail to still 

be amazed at the beauty of this place and how special it is. 

I’m an old soul and a huge Gatsby fan, so of course I love the 

nostalgia and gilded-age history. I live for the ocean and visit 

the beach nearly every day. I’m active, so I love biking Ocean 

Drive, walking local trails, and chasing sunsets. I’m also a foodie, 

a social butterfly, and a bit of a culture nerd, so I fully embrace 

dining out, attending events, and seeking live music, from jazz 

to classical. I travel for a living yet always love returning home.” 

“Living by the water is such a restorative experience for me that 

it’s hard to imagine living somewhere else,” says Heather. “I walk 

the beaches and Sachuest all year long and find something to 

love about it in every season. As a naturally active person, I also 

enjoy attending events like NewportFILM and going for runs 

along the Cliff Walk or Ocean Drive. I’m a huge fan of music and 

heading to Folk Fest every year is a tradition I cherish. These 

things that are so unique to Newport always remind me what 

a special place it is and how lucky we are to call it home.” 

Learn more at islandyouthcoaching.com or find 

Ashley and Heather on Instagram or LinkedIn. 


OCEAN KI 

ACUPUNCTURE: 

YOUR PATH 

TO WELLNESS 

BY ASHLEY BENDIKSEN, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY OCEAN KI ACUPUNCTURE, INC. 

Ocean Ki Acupuncture, Inc. specializes in helping individuals 

improve their overall wellness and achieve harmony, 

balance, and lasting health. The business first opened in 

April 2012, later moving into its current location at 136A West 

Main Road, Middletown, in November of 2014. You’ve likely 

driven by it often! The location is accessible, but the clinic 

is just tucked away from the street offering a quiet, tranquil 

environment for supportive and relaxing treatments. 

“A phrase we use often here is, ‘We walk with you on 

your wellness journey,’” says Dr. Jen Jackson – owner, 

DAOM, and LMT. “Personally, I love connecting with 

each patient, finding out their health goals and walking 

hand in hand with them on their path to wellness.” 

Ocean Ki offers many services to support those who enter 

their doors. They take a personalized approach to recommend 

the best treatment for each individual, Dr. Jackson says. 

In fact, they offer far more than acupuncture – including 

multiple physical, skin health, and therapeutic services. 

“We provide acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, and gua 

sha treatments. We provide Microneedling to help with fine 

lines, wrinkles, sun spots/age spots, and scarring. We also 

provide facial rejuvenation, which has been shown to help 

lift the skin on the face. Facial Rejuvenation is known as an 

‘acupuncture facelift.’ Both services are non-invasive and naturally 

stimulate the body's own production of Collagen and Elastin, 

which helps to keep the skin looking youthful and glowing. 

Massage Therapy and CranioSacral Therapy are also available. 

Additionally, we provide Light Therapy Treatments to help 

with fine lines and wrinkles, acne, and pain areas,” she says. 

Ocean Ki also offers a highly curated selection of products. 

This includes herbal remedies and supplements that 

help patients manage symptoms between treatments, 

as well as skin care products to help patients both 

before and after they undergo treatments. 


Dr. Jackson is joined by what she calls her Healing Team. 

“We have two incredibly talented licensed acupuncturists, 

Dr. Jae Jeong Gloria Lee, DAOM and Dr Mary Guenther, 

DAOM,” she says. “And of course, we have Travis Montique – 

Secretary, Marketing Expert, and Supportive Husband.” 

When asked what brought her into this line of work to begin 

with, Dr. Jackson says, “After graduating with a Bachelor's 

Degree in Exercise Science, I earned my Associates Degree 

in Massage Therapy at CCRI. I was a Licensed Massage 

Therapist for a while when I realized I wanted to continue 

in the healing arts, and acupuncture was brought to my 

attention about the same time. Once I had a treatment, 

I knew I had to learn this healing art,” she says. 

Ironically, the business found its name in the desert! Dr. 

Jackson was in Albuquerque, NM preparing to graduate and 

brainstorming names for the clinic that she would be starting 

once returning home to RI. Always drawn to the ocean, she knew 

this had to be integrated. Dr. Jackson also reflected on a lesson 

she learned about “Ki,” or Essential Life Force Energy, from her 

teacher. He explained that if we can connect our Ki to the vast 

and deep ocean, we will never run out of energy. This is due 

At Ocean Ki Acupuncture, Inc, we walk 

with your on your Wellness Journey. 

OCEANKIACUPUNCTURE.COM 



to the ocean's vast abundance, which is constantly moving, 

generating energy, and containing Ki. By piecing together 

these two aspects of her life, Dr. Jackson found her clinic’s 

name, and it’s been her mission to share abundant Ki with 

all the patients and clients who walk into her clinic since. 

Dr. Jackson says there is no one type of individual who 

Ocean Ki supports. “Acupuncture is for everyone. We have 

patients ranging from 3 months old to 93 years old and 

many other ages in between,” she says. Often, individuals 

are trying acupuncture for the first time. For many, it’s also 

the first thing that actually works. While Dr. Jackson says the 

success stories are endless, here are a few testimonials: 

I have been seeing Dr. Jackson for weekly appointments 

for almost a year now, and I can't say enough about how 

acupuncture has helped me reduce pain and optimize 

my mental state, and reduced my stress. - Dan H. 

I started to see Dr. Lee a few months ago for migraines 

and tension headaches. I found the treatment definitely 

helps to relax and alleviate pain in my eyes, face, neck, 

and shoulders that comes from too much screen time. 

I would recommend her for anyone, including people 

trying acupuncture for the first time! - Bridget D. 

"I went to Ocean Ki on a recommendation and am so happy 

I found it. Mary has an amazing touch. She introduced me 

to gua sha and it relieved my back pain. I only went in for 

3 treatments and it was amazing the relief I got from the 

services. Mary is informative and explained everything she 

was going to do. So happy I took the chance." - James M. 

Dr. Jackson wakes every day motivated at the chance to 

continue supporting people on their wellness journey – helping 

them feel better, one treatment at a time. She and her team 

also love being part of the Aquidneck Island community. “To 

us, community means a group of people who surround and 

support each other to meet each others' goals and dreams. 

We aim to do this through our work and hope to connect even 

more with the community in the year ahead,” Dr. Jackson says. 

Ocean Ki accepts all major health insurances, including 

the VA. They can also verify anyone's insurance to see if 

their insurance plan will cover Acupuncture. Learn more or 

book an appointment at OceanKiAcupuncture.com. You 

can also find them on Facebook at Ocean Ki Acupuncture 

and Instagram at @ocean_ki_acupuncture_inc 

Your Kids Will Love It Here! 

Adults • Children • Custom Workshops 

School Vacation Week Programs: Feb 21- Feb 23 

Since 1935 

HAPPY 

New Year! 

We’re so much more than an art class! 

Register for our Newest Programs 

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We help give you peace of mind 

for the liabilities of modern life. 

OFFICE 401-253-6542 FAX 401-253-5070 

www.johnandradeins.com 

559 HOPE STREET | P.O. BOX 8 | BRISTOL, RI 02809 



RaNew Salon Spa & Barbershop: 

WHERE YOU BECOME FAMILY 

BY ASHLEY BENDIKSEN, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY RANEW 

Owner, Rachel Prendergast, and her daughter Amber 

Meet RaNew Salon Spa & Barbershop 

– a full service, one stop shop for 

the whole family offering hair services, 

nail care, skin care, and lash services. 

It’s the “go-to” salon for anyone who 

wants to “Get RaNewed!” Rachel 

Prendergast, RaNew’s owner says she 

took Cosmetology at Rogers High School 

and then never looked back! Today, 

she feels grateful to have discovered 

her career right after graduating. She’s 

also grateful to have built a salon that 

makes everyone feel like family. 

Located at 195 Broadway, RaNew 

originally opened in November of 

2010 and operated out of its previous 

location for over a decade. By May 2021, 

Prendergast eagerly welcomed its latest 

move. “After being located on Lower 

Thames for 11.5 years and having the 

Spring St Barbershop location separate 

for 4 years, finding a space that would 

allow us to offer all services under one 

roof was ideal. This Broadway space 

became available and I couldn’t pass 

up the opportunity to have all my staff 

in one salon. Broadway allows us to 

continue to be close for lower Thames 

clients but also gives our out-of-town 

clients less time in traffic!,” she says. 

If you were wondering, “RaNew” is partly 

a play on her first name, Rachel. “I had 

been the ‘Ra’ of my first partnership salon, 

Ki-Ra, so when I went out on my own I kept 

the Ra and did a spin on the word renew,” 

she says. Now, Prendergast is at the helm 

of a highly skilled and compassionate 

team. “We aim to be day makers, listening 

to the needs of our guests and delivering 

excellent service with that ‘everyone 

knows your name’ feel. When people 

come to RaNew, they feel at home. Our 

stylists have worked together for many 

years, and I consider myself blessed to 

work along such amazing young women 

that fully support each other,” she says. 

The stories of how they all gathered 

are pretty inspiring. For example, one 

of Prendergast’s stylists, Annia, was 

interning as part of a teen mom mentor 

program. It became a paid position as 

she finished her cosmetology program, 

and she’s been therefor 11 years since 

graduating. Another stylist is Allysha, 

whose great-grandmother and aunt 

were regulars. When Prendergast 

learned Allysha was attending Paul 

Mitchell, she offered her a job! The 

same happened with Luba, a nail tech, 

who was one Prendergast’s clients 

for ten years until sharing that she 

was attending nail tech school. 

There’s also Ana (nail tech/stylist), 

Adamaris (lash tech), Cassie (esthetician), 

Chris (barber, married to Cassie!), 

Lauren (barber/stylist) and Shannon, 

who isn’t an employee but stands behind 

the barber chair several days a week. 

There’s also Dianne – a stylist and retired 

cosmetology teacher who taught Annia, 

Adamaris, and Ana. “It’s been nice to 

have someone like Dianne who can help 

out on a busy day and who encourages 

me as a leader. She’s seen many salon 

owners in her life and can offer a good 

perspective,” says Prendergast. 

Oh, and there’s actual family at the salon, 

too. “Amber, my oldest daughter, runs 

the front desk, booking, social media, 

advertising, community connections, and 

fundraising for local charities. My clients 

have known her and my other two children 

their whole lives, so when Amber came to 

Hair • Nails • Skincare • Lashes 

“Get RaNewed” 

401-619-4848 RaNewSalon.com 

LET OUR SALON FAMILY BECOME A 

ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR YOUR FAMILY 

195 Broadway • Newport, RI 



help run the salon with me, it was a natural fit. Clients feel wellcared 

for and like they are talking to the boss (even if I’m busy)!,” 

she says, adding, “I like working with people I know. A positive 

salon vibe is important to me because it’s my second home! 

We truly all get along, enjoy working together, and it shows!” 

When asked what inspires her, Prendergast says, “Helping 

people - both with their outer style needs but also with the 

inner needs that a listening ear and caring friend can help 

with. I enjoy talking to people and knowing that I’ve been 

there for the biggest days, best days, and definitely, the 

sad times too. It’s gratifying to offer something consistent 

and something that feels good in a crazy world.” 

Prendergast describes their typical clientele as, well, YOU. 

“Locals! Families! We have multiple generations of families that 

come to RaNew and we love it!,” she says. Even beyond the 

salon, cultivating a sense of community is important to her. “As 

an active member in my church, I believe community is being 

giving of your time or resources. Anything we are blessed 

to have is meant to be shared with those in need, so we help 

whenever possible. I also feel strongly that if I have any influence 

or people who ‘follow’ me, then I need to be sure to use it for 

things that go far beyond salon services. We currently have three 

fundraisers going on for our local community and Ukraine.” 

Prendergast says that her clients, staff, and extended 

island family have helped make a girl originally from TN 

feel like she is home here in Newport. “When I look back 

on the friendships and connections and generations that 

I’ve been surrounded by for 28 years behind the chair, both 

among staff and clients, it’s all part of what make a visit to 

RaNew feel so good!” She and her team are now eager to 

support even more individuals – so give the salon a call. 

Learn more at RaNewSalon.com or find them on social media 

at RaNewSalonNewport and The Barbershop By RaNew. 

Bonniecrest | Newport 

$2,100,000 

LISTED BY 

Kate Rooney & Michelle Drum 

SCAN HERE 

FOR MORE INFO 

Newport Office | 37 Bellevue Avenue | 401.849.3000 

Each office is independently owned and operated. 

2 Bedrooms 

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2,808 Sq. Ft. 

INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS PROGRAM 

Counseling • Yoga • Acupuncture • Massage Therapy 

Providing overnight baby nurses, 

sleep training, and parent education 

to families on Aquidneck Island. 

RIOakCounseling 

@rioakcounseling 

(401) 366-2426 admin@rioakcounseling.com 

WWW.RIOAKCOUNSELING.COM 

2984 E Main Rd, Portsmouth, RI 02871 

BABYBLOOMNEWBORNCARE.COM 


CHILD & FAMILY: 

© Best 

STRENGTHENING 

Version Media 

FAMILIES AND 

COMMUNITIES ACROSS RHODE ISLAND 

BY JENNIFER WHELIHAN AND ELIZABETH THOMPSON, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHILD & FAMILY 

Child & Family’s Middletown Community Center 

located at 31 John Clarke Rd, Middletown, RI 02842 

Child & Family is a nonprofit human 

and health service agency built 

upon the idea of helping Rhode Island’s 

most vulnerable neighbors-in-need 

when life is most challenging. 

Led by President and CEO Marty Sinnott, 

along with the Board of Directors, and a 

staff of about 100, Child & Family fulfills this 

important mission: to strengthen Rhode 

Island families, their members, and the 

communities in which they live. They believe 

that individuals and communities thrive 

when supported by strong families, and that 

a community works best when it is willing to 

accept responsibility for all its members. 

Child & Family has a long and strong 

local history: it was founded in Newport 

in 1866 during the aftermath of the Civil 

War by a resident named Ellen Townsend. 

Once known as the Home for Friendless 

Children, the agency operated as a longterm 

care orphanage until the 1960s, and 

then transitioned to providing short-term, 

emergency care to children and families 

in crisis. Every June, Child & Family 

celebrates its genesis with a fundraising 

party called the Townsend Luncheon 

to honor its founding philanthropist. 

They are also the host of the annual fun 

foodfest, Taste of Newport, every fall. 

A student at Child & Family's Sandpipers Early Learning Center. 

Photo taken by Imaj Associates 

This year, Child & Family will celebrate 

the 40th Anniversary of Taste in October 

2023. Both events raise much-needed 

funds for their clients and are open to the 

public—they’d love to have your company! 

Today, Child & Family offers comprehensive, 

evidence-based programs to help children, 

families, and seniors cope with complex 

social problems that require immediate 

or long-term intervention. Each year, they 

serve over 6,500 individuals through their 

center and community- based programs. 

In addition to Sandpipers Early Learning 

Center in Middletown, Child & Family 

operates community engagement centers 

in Middletown and Providence, a residential 

treatment program for youth across 

Aquidneck Island, several evidence-based 

family preservation programs, an Aging 

Well program for seniors, an Independent 

Living Program for former foster youth, 

a comprehensive foster care program, 

and a Supportive Housing Program for 

homeless parents and their children. 

Their work reaches across Rhode Island 

and can affect positive change along 

every moment in a Rhode Islander’s life. 

The past few years have been challenging 

for everyone, between the pandemic, the 

housing crisis, and inflation. This time of 

Collete Rinkel, a client in Child & Family's 

Supportive Housing Program, with her 

children. Photo taken by Imaj Associates. 

uncertainty has a dire and direct impact 

on the lives of children, families, and older 

adults that Child & Family serves every 

day and their services have never been 

in such demand as they are right now. If 

you are in a position to support Child & 

Family’s mission, please reach out to Dana 

DiMarco, Vice President of Development 

and Communications, at ddimarco@ 

childandfamilyri.org or 401-848-4150. 

Learn more about the important work of 

Child & Family at www.childandfamilyri. 

org. They are located locally at 31 

John Clarke Road in Middletown. Be 

sure to also follow them on Facebook 

and Instagram at @childandfamilyri 

(left to right) Marty Sinnott, President and CEO, Child & 

Family, with the 2022 Taste of Newport Co-Chairs, Ida 

and Mark Aramli of The Aramli Foundation and BedJet. 

Photo taken by Kim Fuller Photography. 

New Year 

BETTER SKIN 

NATURAL. 

BEAUTIFUL. 

YOU. 

Radiant Esthetics 

MEDICAL SPA 

WWW.RADIANTESTHETICS401.COM 

208 BELLEVUE AVE. 

2ND FLOOR 

NEWPORT, RI 02840 

401-848-0022 

@radiantesthetics401 

REACH OUT TO LOCAL RESIDENTS: 

Alan “Dutch” Kerr 

Alank@swipeforacause.com 

401-864-7380 

Billy Ashman 

Billy@swipeforacause.com 

401-829-1575 

SWIPE FOR CHARITY 



5 New Year's Resolutions for 

A HAPPY & HEALTHY HOME 

BY LAURA VAILLANCOURT, INNOVATIVE CONSTRUCTION 

The start of a new calendar 

year often brings with it 

renewed energy to projects 

we may have put on the back 

burner, as well as new dedication 

to our personal health and 

happiness. Here are 5 New 

Year’s Resolutions to bring 

peace of mind to your home. 

CLEAR OUT THE CLUTTER 

Studies have shown that a 

cluttered, disorganized home 

can lead to stress, depression, 

procrastination and other mental 

health struggles. According to 

WebMD, women are especially 

affected, citing data that 

indicates women who live in a 

cluttered, messy environment 

have higher levels of the stress 

hormone, cortisol, than women 

who don’t. Clutter also makes 

it difficult to focus and can take 

a toll on relationships as well. 

Doing a thorough deep clean 

and removing excess clutter 

and unwanted items may 

seem like a daunting task, but 

tackling it room-by-room may 

help keep you from getting 

overwhelmed. Make four piles 

as you go along: One of items 

to keep, one to toss, one to 

donate or give to friends, and 

one if you’re unsure what to do. 

ORGANIZE YOUR SPACE 

In order to keep your home 

from getting disorganized 

and cluttered again, look 

around for space-saving ways 

to create a place for all your 

possessions. The space under 

a staircase, for instance, is 

often an underutilized area. 

Look into custom shelves or 

cubbies to store a variety of 

objects, from cleaning supplies 

to holiday decorations. Create 

a space for jackets, boots and 

hats near an entrance or in your 

garage. A simple bench with 

room for storage underneath 

may be all you need. If you find 

that’s still not enough room, 

call Innovative Construction! 

LET YOUR HOUSE BREATHE 

Go around the house checking 

all vents and air ducts for 

obstructions, especially in 

attics and bathrooms where, 

without proper ventilation, 

mold can develop. Be sure to 

thoroughly check behind the 

dryer as well. The U.S. Fire 

Administration states lint and 

debris build-up in dryer vents 

and air ducts cause more than 

15,000 building fires per year. 

CHANGE THOSE BATTERIES 

Don’t wait for the smoke alarm 

to start beeping, change the 

batteries in all your smoke 

detection devices now. Most 

smoke detectors nowadays 

have built in carbon monoxide 

detectors as well, but if yours 

do not, it’s time to buy some. 

Carbon monoxide is colorless, 

odorless and tasteless. It 

can build up in a home from 

improperly ventilated appliances 

and engines, as well as blocked 

fireplaces and wood stoves. 

Make sure you have a smoke 

and carbon monoxide detector 

per every bedroom floor, as 

well as kitchens, garages, 

basements and attic spaces. 

ALL ABOUT RADON 

Radon is a radioactive gas 

that forms naturally when 

radioactive metals break down 

in rocks, soil and groundwater. 

While radon is all around us, 

people are primarily exposed 

by breathing radon that enters 

through gaps and cracks in 

your home. According to the 

EPA and Surgeon General, 

radon is the leading cause of 

lung cancer in non-smokers 

and the second leading cause 

in smokers, after cigarettes. 

A simple way to test for radon 

in your home is by using a 

radon test kit, which can be 

purchased in most hardware 

stores for under $20. If your 

home test results in high levels, 

contact a radon mitigation 

company to assess your home. 


THE INNOVATION LAB: ADVANCING 

OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL YOUTH 

BY ASHLEY BENDIKSEN, PHOTOS BY BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF NEWPORT COUNTY 

New England Patriot and Super Bowl Champion, Malcolm Mitchell, 

announced the Lab's opening and interacted with members 

Above: Members enjoy new technology, including podcasting equipment 

Below: The Innovation Lab officially launches in October of 2022! 


The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County is fully embracing its brand 

new Innovation Lab! Made possible by a $20,000 grant from the 

James M. Cox Foundation, the Lab launched just recently in October 

with a grand opening at the North End Florence Gray Center Clubhouse. 

It was also announced by former New England Patriot and Super Bowl 

Champion, Malcolm Mitchell who the Club's youth loved meeting! 

The donation itself is part of a greater $150,000 gift from The James 

M. Cox Foundation to create five new Cox Innovation Labs across the 

nation, develop STEM programming, and provide training for the Boys & 

Girls Clubs staff. In other words, our local Club is very lucky to have been 

selected! “Cox supports Boys and Girls Clubs across the country in the 

cities and towns where we do business,” says Rosie Fernandez of Cox. 

“Each year, a number of Clubs are selected to receive Innovations Labs, 

with consideration given to need and prior support. This year, Newport 

County was among those meeting criteria for support, alongside several 

other Clubs in the U.S. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County – 

Florence Gray Center Clubhouse received its first Cox Innovation Lab.” 

These Innovation Labs provide students with access to curriculum 

to advance their computer literacy skills and help bridge the digital 

divide for children without access to a computer or internet connection 

at home. “Despite today's youth lives revolving around technology, 

many don't have access to a computer or sometimes basic internet,” 

says Marlin DaCruz who now oversees the Lab. “The Club providing 

STEAM (A=ART) related programs offers youth a chance to discover 

new careers and ideas they otherwise would not have the chance 

to explore. It is important, no matter a kid's zip code, that they have 

access to quality learning, including fluency in STEM fields.” 

DaCruz says that members are loving and already benefiting from 

the new addition to the Club. “I believe it makes them feel special, 

being one of only five Clubs to receive such upgrades to their space. 

Our podcasting station and new upgrades to the music studio have 

been major attractions,” he says. “Our new tech is allowing our 

members to think outside the box and bring all their ideas to life. 

Also, with the influx of tablets and laptops, there has been more 

consistency with homework and academic success at the Club.” 

Joe Pratt, Executive Director of the Club, says that the Lab also fills 

a need not readily available for its underrepresented members: 



opportunity. “The City of Newport’s North End Urban Plan, 

resulting from 20 years of economic development planning, 

has set the goal of attracting high-wage, year-round jobs in the 

marine technology (“blue”) and sustainability (“green”) economic 

sectors. Newport’s future is in the hands of today’s children, and 

the plan’s ultimate success relies on having relevant talent to fill 

these positions,” he says. “Under the Club’s partnership with Cox, 

members can receive a well-rounded experience in blue and 

green opportunities – Cox provides the tools to explore today’s 

technology, and BGCNC introduces members to careers that 

rely on that technology through its College and Career Center.” 

The slogan of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America is “Great 

futures start here.” The Innovation Lab helps this become 

even more possible, says Pratt. “By placing these tools 

in members’ hands to explore, they can realize their own 

potential. If they know what they are capable of, it opens 

up possibilities for their future. BGCNC will be there to 

encourage turning their strengths into an achievable plan.” 

DaCruz also agrees. “It’s cliche, but anything becomes possible 

with everyday access to highly coveted technology such as 3D 

printers, a T-shirt press, a full music studio, new computers, a 

podcasting station, etc. The kids in our community now have 

the opportunity to build STEM-related skill sets very early in 

their academic careers and the chance to increase earning 

potential by being exposed to STEM-related occupations. 

Our members also have the opportunity to pass on what 

they've learned to the younger generation in their community. 

The next Elon Musk or Dr. Dre can be right in front of us.” 

Learn more at bgcnewport.org. 

NEW YEAR, 

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Residential and Commercial. 

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401-846-5980 

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Middletown, RI 



FABNEWPORT 

IS ON THE MOVE! 

BY STEVE HEATH, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY FABNEWPORT 

Since their founding in 2013, FabNewport 

has grown from a maker space 

focused primarily STEAM program to 

a comprehensive youth development 

organization running a year-round slate 

of programming that covers the gamut 

from golf to surfing, hiking to sailing, art 

and music, storytelling and podcasting. 

“Our goal is to provide traditionally 

underserved youth with a wide range 

of experiences so kids understand what 

opportunities exist,” said Steve Heath, 

FabNewport's Executive Director and founder. 

“The young people need to get out into the 

community and explore possibilities, trying 

things out to figure out what they like and 

don’t like. If children can figure out what they 

love to do, they are more likely to become 

intrinsically motivated in and out of school.” 

In the summer FabNewport NEX (The 

Newport Experience), a six week program in 

which middle school learners choose three 

two-week experiences with learning teams 

based on their interest. The learning teams 

include a youth development specialist, 

a college intern, two or three high school 

interns, and about eight middle school 

students. The learning teams take a deep 

dive into content and also have fun exploring. 

“After all, it is summer. The kids deserve to 

have some spontaneous fun,” said Heath. 

NEX requires lots of partnerships with 

organizations like Norman Bird Sanctuary, 

Sail Newport, Clean Ocean Access, 

and Bike Newport. “We are working on 

growing an equitable, youth centered, 

ecosystem of learning in Newport County 

so more youth can have access to the rich 

array of opportunities available locally,” 

said Heath. “Our kids deserve more. 

They shouldn’t be limited by financial 

constraints and transportation obstacles.” 

During the school year, FabNewport runs 

programming during the school day and 

after school five days a week. They launched 

Heart Club at Thompson Middle School which 

gives children under stress the opportunity 

to unwind. Ellen Pinnock, FabNewport's 

community engagement specialist, is 

teaching Rogers High School learners the 

art of storytelling through podcasting. 

Chris Gross leads the FabAdventure squad 

who spend their time on twice weekly skillbuilding 

outings in partnership with Norman 

Bird Sanctuary and the Conanicut Island 

Sailing Foundation. And Orlando Peace 

keeps FabGolf running all year through 

twice weekly visits to Newport Indoor Golf. 

To bring cohesion to the array of experiences 

FabNewport youth engage in, FabNewport is 

working closely with national thought leaders, 

Education Reimagined, and more than 10 

local nonprofits to formalize the ecosystem 

of learning concept in Newport County. 

“The goal is to create an ecosystem where 

young people can move seamlessly between 

organizations and opportunities,” said 

Heath. “We are doing everything we can to 

create the conditions where all youth can 

grow their competencies and confidence 

and live into their positive future visions.” 

To learn more, visit www.fabnewport.org 

Nathan Tilman, DDS • Bryan May, DDS 

Dianne Pannes, DDS • James Safford, DDS 

Newport Office: (401) 846-3801 

Portsmouth Office: (401) 683-9724 

smile-newport.com 

“Creating beautiful, healthy smiles 

in a state-of-the-art, caring and 

comfortable environment.” 

Comprehensive Dental Care Specialists Serving You in Newport & Portsmouth 


EVERY HOME CAN 

BENEFIT FROM SOLAR 

MIKE LYNCH, GENERAL MANAGER 


If you feel you’re home may be too small or that solar only benefits 

those with a lot of money - you're wrong ! No matter if the 

electrical bill is $500 or $100 per month, going solar will fix that. 

In fact, more than half our customers have modest homes (1,200 - 

2,500 sq feet) and they simply want to curb the high electrical bill, 

you could too. Even a small home will save $1,400 - $2,400 per year. 

50% Energy Cost Increase - HELP, What can I do? 

If you reviewed your RI Energy bill recently you will notice it 

just went up almost 50% in November. If you feel paralyzed 

over these ridiculously high electrical rates you are not 

alone. Here in RI we are at a distinct disadvantage because 

in order for us to create electricity we have to burn fossil fuels 

and steam water - that spins turbines that produce/grant us 

electricity. In RI 90% of that energy is natural gas driven. When 

natural gas prices increase, electrical cost follow suit. 

Solar NET METERING 

The best way to mitigate or eliminate that high (and will continue) 

bill is to agree on a solar system then take advantage of NET 

METERING - whereas the utility co. is obligated to credit you 

for the solar production at the same rate as they charge you. 

Net Metering is a powerful program that will get weaker over 

time. However, when you choose to move forward soon, you 

will grandfathered into the program at that dollar for dollar 

ratio. As solar becomes more popular programs such as Net 

Metering will become weaker. (see NET METER Bill example) 

Winter Decision = Solar System this Spring 

Keep in mind from the date you decide to move forward on a Solar 

system to getting it on your roof (Engineering, Interconnection, 

Permits and Installation) takes 4-5 months. Making a decision 

this January is the key to getting the job done in April/May. 

Springtime and early summer represents the best possible 

production as the days are longest leading up to the summer 

solstice. Your new Solar System produces energy as soon as 

the sun rises all day long until sunset. No matter what the daily 

conditions are - clouds, rain, partial sun, or direct sunshine, the 

photons from the sun are what will generate your solar power. 

Materials Cost Increases 

Over the past 12 months the cost of supplies,natural 

resources, glass, metal, aluminum, steel, wire plus logistics/ 

shipping, labor and insurance all continue to rise. Therefore, 

moving forward with an agreement will lock you in now 

on a lower cost before future hikes are sure to arrive. 

Incentives Are Still Strong (for now) 

• The Federal government is offering a 30% Tax 

Credit on the total cost of the system. 

Net Metering is a privilege in Rhode Island whereas the 

utility company is obligated to credit you (in dollars) the 

same rate you are charged for the power your solar system 

produces. Net Metering is here now in 2022. When you 

enter the Net Meter program you are grandfathered in. 

The future “dollar for dollar” net will not be around forever 

and in fact is being lobbied against constantly. 

• Eliminate My Electric Bill Now 

Most of my customers say “I should have done this 

sooner and not delayed this sensible decision.” 

My team and I are located on the island and we offer 

free solar design and quote consultations. 

Beat the summer rush and move forward now. 

Solar is good for the 

environment. It allows us 

to be a part of the solution 

and not the problem. 

Sample of a client's actual net 

meter bill a month after installment 

in September = zero kilowatts. 

YOUR ELECTRIC RATES 

JUST INCREASED 50% 

Eliminate Your Bill 

THE FUTURE IS SOLAR 

Call or Text Local 

General Manager Mike 

for a FREE Design Estimate 

401-479-2434 

Mike@sunergysolutions.us 

sunergysolutions.us 

Local Install 


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AQUIDNECK ISLAND 

3951 


Living 

WELCOME TO THE REEF 

Join us for a magical dining experience under the stars in our heated, designer igloos. 

Seating for up to 8 people. Please go to our website at thereefnewport.com to make reservations. 

Wishing you a Happy New Year 

10 HOWARD WHARF, NEWPORT | 401-324-5852 | THEREEFNEWPORT.COM | THEREEFNEWPORT

JANUARY AQUIDNECK ISLAND LIVING

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