Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Almond receives Saratoga cap. Museum Foundation President Frank Lennon presented the headwear to Rhode Island's Chief Executive during South County Tourism Day at the State House in Providence. Retired Master Chief and Saratoga volunteer Wayne Lacy looks on.

Music, food, hot air balloons, attractions and fun were the order of the day, Tuesday, May 9th at the Rhode Island State House celebrating South County's charms during National Tourism Week.

At the 8th annual Celebrate South County event sponsored by the South County Tourism Council and South County legislators, Governor Lincoln C. Almond, state officers and legislators viewed displays (including Mr. Potato Head) featuring family fun events from the arts to golfing. Traditional toe-tapping Irish tunes from the musical group Dingle Regatta filled the stately Rotunda, and clam cakes and chowder topped off with Hauser Chocolates gave a flavor of the upcoming summer season in South County.

"Tourism is Rhode Island's second largest industry generating over $2.5 billion in revenue," stated Ann O'Neill, president of the South County Tourism Council. "It is one of the most important and a growing part of South County's economy."

The proposed Air, Land & Sea Heritage and Technology Park featuring the supercarrier USS Saratoga as its centerpiece would offer a tremendous boost that already important economic sector.

"Economics will determine the success of your project," Governor Almond told USS Saratoga Museum Foundation, Inc. President Frank Lennon. "Show you have the capital to build it, and the ongoing revenue stream to operate successfully," Almond challenged project leaders.

Mr. Potato Head joins the Easter Bunny as a Saratoga supporter. The symbol made famous by Rhode Island manufacturer Hasbro is now playing a role in promoting tourism to the state. Here he dons a Saratoga cap at the Rhode Island State House. (see related story)

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Last Updated:
9/29/01