As Rhode Island enters a two-week “pause” in hopes of curbing the spread of COVID-19, many Cranstonians have begun decorating businesses, homes and community spaces for the holidays – all with hopes of brightening the mood of many who feel more isolated than perhaps before.

Heading up the decoration at the Knightsville Gazebo on Saturday was Ward 5 Councilman Chris Paplauskas.

“This year is vastly different, but I wanted to make sure our neighborhood Christmas tree at the gazebo was decorated,” he said. “To me, it’s a symbol of hope as we finish a tough 2020 and move towards the new year. Thank you to the handful of volunteers that helped setup this morning.”

The residents of Knightsville Manor have completed their Holiday Garden with donations from Lori McDermott, Caroline Caprio, Ward 4 Councilman Edward Brady, Paplauskas, Citywide Councilwoman-elect Nicole Renzulli, Meri Kennedy and Steve Popiel. This will provide residents with a safe area to just enjoy the garden and the brightness of the season. All precautions, such as mask wearing and social distancing, are in place.

The Artists’ Exchange has decorated its front window at 50 Rolfe Square in time for its annual Gingerbread House Decorating Contest, which has gone virtual this week.

Other places to travel to see wonderful Christmas lights and displays are Garden City Center, Praise Tabernacle Church on Park Avenue and Pawtuxet Village.

(Herald photos by Steve Popiel)

1

HOLIDAYS IN KNIGHTSVILLE:

On Saturday, a handful of community members got together to decorate the Knightsville Gazebo, let by Ward 5 Councilman Chris Paplauskas. Pictured, from left, are Paplauskas, Steve Agnoli, Citywide Councilman-elect Robert Ferri, Joseph Agresti and Ward 6 Councilman-elect Matt Riley. 2

BRIGHTENING THE DAY:

Knightsville Manor resident Judi Barone decorated a Christmas Garden and Gazebo with donations from the community. Ward 5 Councilman Chris Paplauskas stopped by to see their completed work. 3

GINGERBREAD CONTEST:

The Artists’ Exchange has decorated the window of its Rolfe Square location to kick off its gingerbread house competition. 4

MANOR’S GARDEN:

Pictured is the completed Christmas Garden at the Knightsville Manor, made possible by donations from community members. 5

The Knightsville Gazebo