Bold Looks & Deep Dives šŸ¤æ

Discover bold styles at a local salon, tales of literary mischief in Barrington, the youngest female scuba pro in the U.S. + more!

Spring is doing its usual slow roll: tempting us with sunshine and teasing us with temperatures just high enough to make us question our coat choices. Fortunately, todayā€™s newsletter brings all the warmth with none of the wardrobe confusion. From bold new hairstyles to a scuba prodigy putting Rhode Island on the map, hereā€™s whatā€™s turning heads this week.

Step Into Your Dream Look at Dream State Beauty Collective

Finding the right haircut shouldnā€™t feel like a gamble. At Dream State Beauty Collective in East Providence, co-owners Emma Davidson and Alli Scarborough have created a salon experience thatā€™s equal parts creative haven and community hub, with services that celebrate self-expression and inclusivity. Read more on our latest blog at HeyRhody.com.

ā€¢ By Charlie Brewer, photo courtesy of Dream State Beauty Collective

Jamie Michalak Brings a Handful of Heart to Her Latest Picture Book

Barrington author Jamie Michalakā€™s newest character, Hazel the Handful, was inspired by a spirited terrier with a penchant for drama and a love of stuffies. Meet Jamie, and Hazel, at Barrington Books on April 5 for a morning of stories, laughs, and literary mischief. Read more on our latest blog at HeyRhody.com.

ā€¢ By Elyse Major, photo courtesy of Jamie Michalak

Presented by Rhode Island Energy

Get Paid to Recycle Your Old Fridge or Freezer

Rhode Islanders looking to clear out their old appliances can now turn them into quick cash with the help of Rhode Island Energy. Through its Appliance Recycling Program, residents can earn $50 for an old, working refrigerator or freezer, while also lowering their energy bills and keeping waste out of landfills.

The process is hassle-free. Simply schedule a pickup, and Rhode Island Energy will collect the appliance at no cost. The only requirement? The unit must be in working condition. Once picked up, it will be responsibly recycled, ensuring that materials donā€™t end up in landfills.

Beyond the instant $50 payout, the program offers long-term benefits. Older refrigerators and freezers consume far more energy than newer models, so removing them can lead to noticeable savings on electricity bills. Plus, the convenience of free pickup means homeowners donā€™t have to worry about hauling away heavy appliances themselves.

Donā€™t let that outdated appliance take up spaceā€“get paid to recycle it today. Schedule a free pickup by visiting RIenergy.com/recycle or calling 1-866-685-1001.

ā­ Ever wanted to learn the art of bonsai while sipping a craft brew? Bonsai Bar brings the ancient practice of bonsai to life in a fun, hands-on workshop hosted at your favorite local venues. Led by expert instructors, youā€™ll craft your own miniature tree to take home ā€“ no green thumb required! Read more about them in our archives.

ā­ Ever tried contra dancing like New Englandā€™s earliest settlers? Step into the rhythm on March 29 from 4ā€“6pm at The Meeting House Barn Dance in Tiverton, where Don Heinold and The Westside Warblers will lead an energizing evening of music and movement.

 ā­ Ready to sip your way into spring? Join Ocean State Spice and Tea on March 29 from 1-3pm for a refreshing celebration featuring free tea samples, quality time with family, and plenty of cuteness from furry friends and little ones.

Our Latest on Hey Rhody Podcast: Lilā€™ Rhodyā€™s First Comedy Fest Hits PVD!

Jenna and Chris sit down with Michael Gravison of The VETS to spill the tea on the inaugural Lil Rhody Laugh R!ot, a comedy festival bringing major laughs to Providence March 27ā€“31. From the behind-the-scenes scoop to where to snag tickets, this episode is your laugh-track to the fest! Click here to listen on your favorite platform.

12-Year-Old Makes Waves as Youngest Female Master Scuba Diver in the U.S.

East Greenwich sixth grader Mia DaPonte has become the youngest female in the country, and youngest in New England, to earn the elite Master Scuba Diver certification. After two years of rigorous training, she completed more than 50 dives, including rescues, deep dives, and night dives, proving that age is no barrier when passion runs deep. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

ā€¢ By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of the DaPonte Family

#HeyRhodyPhotos

Some heroes wear capes. Others just glow quietly in the distance šŸŒŸ

Photo by: @kadircarcamo

Use #HeyRhodyPhotos to share your Rhody views, and it might be featured here!