The Saturday before Thanksgiving was a whirlwind of activity as the city celebrated the opening of three new business locations – one, a Rhode Island institution, one, a first for the state, and the other, a family-owned small business.

From its humble beginnings with a single store that opened 47 years ago in the town of North Kingstown, Ocean State Job lot now has more than 150 locations in New England, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Their newest location, at 300 Quaker Ln., takes over the space formerly occupied by the Christmas Tree Shops. Its nearly 39,000 s/f of bright, open retail space makes it the largest of Warwick’s three store locations, offering high-quality, affordable merchandise ranging from apparel to seasonal items, pantry staples, and household goods. The revitalization of the vacant building enhances the company’s ongoing efforts of repurposing space to provide an enjoyable shopping experience for customers. The company also prides itself on offering employment opportunities that have competitive pay and benefits, and will employ between 40 and 50 people in full- and part-time positions.

Located inside the same plaza as Ocean State Job Lot, the folks from The Honey Baked Ham Company joined together with new customers to celebrate the opening of their first Rhode Island location. The company was founded by Harry J. Hoenselaar in Detroit in 1957, building on a special curing and cooking procedure that made his products a hit from the very beginning. Today, the company remains within the Hoenselaar family, and boasts 450 family-owned stores located across the country, with offerings that have expanded over the years to include classic roasted turkeys, mouthwatering desserts, and a variety of homemade side dishes that make entertaining – whether for a few people or a large crowd – a breeze.

Hard Knocks of Warwick, located at 905 Warwick Ave., is now open for business as well. At Hard Knocks, they offer boxing fitness classes for all ages and skill levels. Their unique approach caters to individuals seeking one-on-one instruction, women-only classes, and inclusive group dynamics. The instructors aim to engage clients in a way to help them learn new skills, build strength, and get fit in a fun, healthy environment.

The city of Warwick has numerous opportunities for development and re-development throughout the community. To learn more, call (401) 738-2014 or email econ.dir@warwickri.gov.

We wish you and yours a very happy, healthy, and memorable holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

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