📍Local Is The New Luxe

Did you know August marks peak tourist season in Rhode Island? (We know, groundbreaking.) With Newport buzzing and I‑95 doing its best impression of a parking lot, now’s the perfect time to slow your scroll and enjoy a moment with today’s newsletter. We’re diving into our August issues, spotlighting adorable pets ready for adoption, getting a bite of PVD’s tastiest bagel spot, and sharing even more can’t-miss Rhody goodness.

Book a Staycation with Our August Reads, Out Now!

August has arrived, and so have our fresh-off-the-press issues – your passport to leisuring local and transforming Rhody into your very own DIY resort. Think five-star vibes without the TSA line, thanks to curated amenities from around the state. This month, So Rhode Island whisks you away to Block Island for a day of bites and beachy bliss, Providence Monthly uncovers the buzz behind a new market in the West End, The Bay hits the road with a pop-up mobile bookstore, and Hey Rhody chills out with soothing summer treatments. Plus, every mag includes our back-to-school guide to help you hit the ground running (or at least caffeinated). Grab your copies at local newsstands or flip through online.

Gansett Run Club Packs the Boulevard for Free 5K Celebration

Over 500 Rhode Islanders hit Blackstone Boulevard for the Gansett Run Club’s Hi-Neighbor 5K, turning a Wednesday night into a high-energy showcase of wellness and community. Backed by Zappos and Providence’s “Fitness in the Parks” initiative, the free race welcomed all paces, proving running can be both inclusive and fun. Read more online.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Small Girls PR}

^{Presented by RI Energy}

Unlock Comfort, Savings, and Sustainability Right At Home

Thinking about upgrading your refrigerator or freezer? Don’t just let your old appliance sit there wasting space (and energy). With our simple recycling program, you can clear out your working fridge or freezer and earn $50 – no heavy lifting required.

Here’s how it works:

1. Schedule a free pickup at your convenience.

2. We’ll come to you, collect the appliance, and recycle it the right way.

3. You’ll receive a $50 reward in the mail, just for doing the right thing.

It’s an easy win: less clutter in your home, more cash in your pocket, and a cleaner environment. We make sure every collected appliance is dismantled and recycled responsibly—keeping harmful materials out of landfills and reducing energy waste.

Whether you're making space for something new or just ready to say goodbye to that second fridge in the garage, we’re here to help. It’s quick, it’s free, and it pays.Don’t miss out – schedule your no-cost pickup today and let us turn your old fridge into your next $50.

Presented by Eastside Bagel Company

Eastside Bagel Co. Anchors Elmgrove Plaza With Food, Art, and Community

Veteran-owned Eastside Bagel Company has transformed a corner of Providence’s East Side into a neighborhood fixture, serving fresh coffee, breakfast, and lunch with a focus on local flavor. Founders Mak Thakur and Edmar Delgadillo have created a space that doubles as an art gallery and community venue, hosting events and supporting Brown University Athletics. Read more online.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Eastside Bagel Company}

Meet Your August Purr-fect Companions

Rhode Island shelters are spotlighting three adorable pets: Parker, Sadie, and Montana, each eager to find a forever family. Whether you're looking for a playful cat, an active pup, or a resilient sweetheart, these lovable rescues could be your next best friend. Read more online.

^{• Writing and photography by Karen Kalunian}

#HeyRhodyPhotos

Just another day in Rhody paw-radise 🐶

Photo by @rhodytravels

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