Opinion

Alt-Parenting: Farewell Summer … Don’t Let the Door Hit You in the Ass

There are many realities no one mentions to parents before they have kids: sleepless nights last well past the newborn phase; the words “carefree” and “relaxing” drop from your vocabulary, and, upon birth, your sex life suffers an instantaneous demise. There’s one truth, however, that’s been the most shocking of all: SUMMER IS HELL!!! I […]

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2014 Election: Some local artists have expressed concern that the tax-free art bill will encourage out-of-state galleries and out-of-state artists to use RI as a tax haven, something that is already happening. Is this a bad thing, and what would you do to ensure the promotion of local artists when it comes to selling art?

RI Governor Todd Giroux (D): We’re moving in the direction of having tax-free-zones for art collaboratives. That’s the long-term answer to the business community. Gina Raimondo (D): I think we can do a much better job of branding Rhode Island as a tourist destination, and that includes highlighting the amazing work being produced by Rhode Islanders. We […]

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2014 Election: In their own Words: Small gallery owners have successfully cross-promoted with events like gallery nights, but they often fall through the cracks between initiatives directed at small businesses and the support given to non-profits. What action, if any, would you take to support this niche in the Providence art scene?

RI Governor Todd Giroux (D): I think there’s a number of arts and non-profit supporters who understand the issue enough to design executive committees to bring action to the problem. For example, the mobile trolleys. I believe they can work with the busing authorities, for example, to promote destination-based community events. Gina Raimondo (D):  I think, generally […]

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2014 Election: In their own Words: What will you suggest to make the city/state more hospitable to artists?

RI Governor Todd Giroux (D): I want RI to be the Amsterdam of the East Coast. I want to have the most welcoming atmosphere of business, culture and lifestyle. Not every leader understands that lifestyle is a consumer choice. Gina Raimondo (D):  I think, generally speaking, we need to do a better job of helping our artists […]

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2014 Election: In their own Words: Live/work spaces are sometimes considered crucial for incubating both artists and small businesses. Would you develop any plans to cultivate these spaces in [Providence / Rhode Island]?

RI Governor   Gina Raimondo (D): Absolutely. We are already home to some great shared spaces and incubators, and as governor I will work to highlight and expand these wonderful resources Clay Pell (D):I welcome the opportunity as governor to promote the arts statewide and ensure artists have access to the space they need for their work. I […]

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