20 Things to be Thankful for in Rhode Island

Newport in Summer, Spring, Fall and Winter — We can often forget to appreciate enough how beautiful it is in Newport. From Cliff Walk to the Jazz Festival to Newport Vineyards, to the Thames Street shops and restaurants, to the beaches…you get the idea.

College Basketball Season - The Winter months in Rhode Island and be long, but thankfully there is college basketball season help us get through it. 

With both Providence and the University of Rhode Island expected to compete for an NCAA Tournament birth, this season should be as exciting as any. 

George Washington — One of America’s most important pieces of art is right in the State Room at the State House. Gilbert Stuart’s masterpiece of the first President of the United States is daunting in size and historical importance.

Ye Olde English Fish & Chips and Wrights Family Farm - There are two classic restaurants in Northern Rhode Island that are authentic and a throw back family eateries.  Take your picck between surf or turf, but we're lucky to have both institutions.

The Arcade — America’s first indoor shopping venue has been restored to both retail and residential micro-living. The development is a global model to modern re-use.  After having been shuttered for a number of years, it is now a vibrant re-addition to the downtown scene.

Jim Vincent  — With class and determination, Vincent has lead the NAACP to unmatched heights of importance. In a period of time in which discussions about race are dominating communities’ narrative, Vincent is a voice of advocacy.

Federal Hill  — One of the great city neighborhoods in America. It has the legacy of Italian immigration, Mafia headquarters, and a tremendous restaurant destination.

Providence’s de facto “Little Italy” is the hub to more than a dozen great restaurants.

The Lady Project — Sierra Barter has created a organization that connects, inspires and showcases awesome women doing amazing things. The organization started in Providence is now growing across the country.

#10

Harry’s Burgers — Just maybe the best burgers in the free world (we cannot speak to burgers in North Korea).  In a state and region with plenty of good burger joints, Harry's stands out.  And we're glad it's here.

#11

newportFILM — The non-profit group brings Rhode Island the most innovative and interesting movies each summer. Better yet, the films are framed by the most unique and beautiful venues. Who else can screen an adventure film at an historic fort during the world's biggest ocean race?

#12

James Diossa — The Mayor of Central Falls is a breath of fresh air. While other elected officials are struggling in Rhode Island, Diossa stands out for his commitment and energy to revitalizing Rhode Island’s most devastated community.  He just gave his bike to a student who needed one to ride to school.  

#13

Drone Videos of Rhode Island — Nothing shows the natural beauty of Rhode Island like a good drone video of our beautiful state. We have added one for your enjoyment.  Want a drone for personal or professional use?  RI has that for you. 

#14

Gamm Theater — With Trinity Rep and PPAC producing great shows, it is difficult for smaller theaters to compete, but make no mistake about it, the Gamm is producing some of the best productionsin the state.  If you haven't checked a show there, you simply must.

You won't be disappointed.

Providence Antheneum and the Redwood Library — These two amazing, historic libraries in Providence and Newport respecitvely are the opportunity to enjoy amazing collections and architectual beauty. These two edifices are unmatched in America.

Deepwater Wind — Rhode Island's population represents less than one-third-of-one percent and when we are the first or the best in the U.S. it defies all odds. Rhode Island's Deepwater wind project is the first off-shore wind project and has the capability to be a major job creator.

Hope Artiste Village —The Pawtucket redevelopment project has become the incubator for everything from artists to coffee to bowling. It is a success in redevelopment, energy and collaboration.  We are thankful for the vision and pragmatism in bringing an old mill back to life.

Our U.S. Military and Public Safety Officers — At a time when concerns about terrorism is real and mounting, with recent attacks in Paris, Mali, and Beruit killing hundreds, we are thankful for the work of the United States Armed services around the world and the efforts by domestic law enforcement in the U.S. to deter terrorism on our soil.

Creative Energy - From artists to entrepenuers, the future of Rhode Island will be created and grown by thinkers driving the next generation of small businesses through temendous work and innovation.  From RISD to BIF, and designers, creators, and do-ers across all genres, we are thankful to have such a creative community.

RI Food Bank — We have a tendency to focus on the hungry and most needy around the holidays, but the Rhode Island food bank and other groups work year around to help those in need of the most basic -- food to eat.