From guitars, to geckos to physical therapy - Warwick welcomes new businesses - by Frank Picozzi

The city has recently welcomed an eclectic mix of businesses that have taken up residence in plaza storefronts throughout our community.

Fuzzy’s Fine Guitars has set up shop in Airport Plaza at 1800 Post Rd., offering an array of services, including full repairs, routine maintenance, and modifications. Fuzzy’s has a laid-back atmosphere and is a self-described “neighborhood music shop built by musicians, for musicians” who are available to help customers “get what they need and feel good doing it.”

With this in mind, they offer lessons for all skill levels, workshops, and group jams that include open mic nights. Their Facebook page regularly features items sure to delight music aficionados, such as a rare 1960s Ace/Billy Lee guitar strap, a 2012 Roland VG MIM Fender Strat, Peavey Transtube 158 with custom grill, and a peacock blue PRS SE Hollowbody II Piezo. Customers rave about the selection and outstanding customer service. Fuzzy’s Ukulele Club, open to all experience levels, has quickly become a popular offering. Above all, Fuzzy’s strives to make the store a true community where people cheer each other on as they learn to play, trade stories, and jam at the amp wall. Stop in and see why Fuzzy’s has quickly built a loyal customer and fan base.

If hanging out with a gecko instead of strumming a guitar is more your vibe, be sure to check out ET Reptiles, which opened in the Gold Plaza at 909 Warwick Ave. Owners Emily Arpin and Taylor Faria worked at a former reptile business, and have joined forces with a goal of changing the stereotype often associated with reptiles by offering customers an inviting space to learn more about the animals or simply spend some time and become more accustomed to them. The duo is also hoping to engage the community through educational animal encounters at the store and other public locations, movie nights, a Halloween truck-or-treat, and other family-friendly events throughout the year. In addition to the actual reptiles, the store offers a wide range of supplies and a knowledgeable staff who can help customers choose just the right reptile to bring home.

Across town, Dynamic Performance and Rehab has opened at One Lambert Lind Hwy. Led by founder and CEO Dr. Peter Dionisopoulos, the practice offers ACL, CrossFit, golf, running, sports, and tennis/pickleball rehab services, along with manual and physical therapy, joint mobilization, personal training, and running and sports performance programs. The team of licensed professionals treats 17 different ailments, including back pain and sciatica, foot/ankle pain, hip and knee pain, plantar fasciitis, and sports injuries, including swimming and weightlifting. They work with patients to create personalized treatment plans to ensure an effective recovery.

The city is pleased to welcome these companies to our diverse business landscape, and look forward to their success here. If you’re looking to expand or start a business, contact the Department of Economic Development at (401) 738-2014 or email econ.dir@warwickri.gov to learn more about Warwick and space that’s available for sale or lease.

Frank Picozzi is the mayor of the city of Warwick, R.I.