Chocolate's role in Newport history

The American Revolution, chocolate, and our national historic treasures—

When Jews immigrated to America in their ever-evolving diaspora, they were not allowed to have slaves, so they turned to trade. Chocolate was the commodity which played an integral role in the development of important Newport landmarks, and indeed, many of Rhode Island's most valued national historic treasures.

Planting a rose garden in the Northeast

When planting a rose garden in Rhode Island, or even just a few roses in the Northeast, there are many choices to consider: color, variety, whether shrub, tea, or climbing, fragrance, and of course, you'll want pest-free roses, disease resistant, and winter hardiness.

Making Christmas in southern Rhode Island

Christmas 2015

Finally getting the candles in the windows for Christmas in Newport,  I found myself opening five tiny doors at once today on the advent calendar; remembering when there was lively discussion every morning here, as to just whose turn it was and there never were enough doors and windows to go around.

Baked stuffed lobster à la New England

Yesterday was National Lobster Day and all of New England is famous for its fresh fish. Here's a New England gastronomic favorite summer delicacy, an oh, so simple recipe for baked stuffed lobster. Because it is stuffed with the claw meat and scallops, it is also called Lobster 'Fisherman Style' in southern Rhode Island. The breading is light and not at all gooey. It's an easy recipe that can be prepared ahead and refrigerated until after cocktails.

Newport returns to halcyon days

With the recent notoriety Newport RI has received, i.e., one of the top "Ten Most Beautiful Places in America" and its recent selection to host the last regatta of the America's Cup World Series 2012 sailing season, there's no doubt Rhode Island will get an economic boost from these two distinctions.

Newport home and garden spectacular

One of the most anticipated events of the summer season is the 2016 Flower Show, hosted every year by the Preservation Society, keeper of the Newport Mansions. Scheduled when gardens are usually at their height of bloom, and always when the roses bloom, the Newport Flower Show is a home and garden spectacular not to be missed. Get your tickets now for the Flower Show at Rosecliff, a 3-day event for gardeners and shoppers, which showcases some of Newport's most important real estate.