According to Punxsutawney Phil, who saw his shadow last month, we are in for six more weeks of winter. However, with the mild temperatures that February brought to the Ocean State, it is easy to believe spring is right around the corner. As warm weather and a new season approach, it is exciting to think of all the spring pastimes that we will soon be able to enjoy. 

One of the most iconic locations in Warwick, Rocky Point Park is sporting a new dock and picnic area. Our Department of Public Works crews, with help from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have completed the new fishing pier for visitors to enjoy. Additionally, work has begun erecting a new covered picnic area where the Olympic-sized swimming pool once was. The project, which will be constructed by the New England Recreation Group, was approved by the City Council at the beginning of 2018. A similar makeover will also be happening at City Park, after a similar grant was awarded for $350,000. Workers will be installing two more sheltered picnic areas, as well as eight dugout style shelters. More plans are in the works for Rocky Point, as city and DEM officials determine how to continue improvements with the grant funding. 

Frontier Airlines also made a big announcement last month. They will now be offering direct service to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This marks the 10th non-stop destination provided by the airline, making them the lead non-stop provider out of T.F. Green. Rhode Islanders will soon have the ability to fly directly to Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Denver, Fort Myers, Miami, Myrtle Beach, Orlando, Raleigh-Durham and Tampa. Visit Frontier Airlines (www.flyfrontier.com) for ticket information and special introductory rates. 

A Warwick staple celebrated its 50th anniversary in February, Sam’s New York System, located on Freeborne St. Sam’s first opened their doors in 1968 and have since been serving up some of the best hot weiners in the state. The family-owned and operated business offers an extensive menu, with something for everyone. As a “thank you” to their customers, they ran custom appreciation raffles, and hosted a customer appreciation week, where guests could enjoy their famous hot weiners for just a $1.50 each. 

In celebration of my 18th year in office, I will also be hosting the first ever “Mayor for a Day” contest. All eighth grade students in the city of Warwick are invited to participate in the essay contest describing what they love about the city, as well as their hopes for the future of Warwick. All submissions must be entered by April 20th. To kick off the Mayor for a Day contest, the winner, along with two runner-ups will be invited as his personal guests at the first Food Trucks Night of the season scheduled for May 3rd at City Hall. The winner will be mayor for the day on May 4th. 

As the last traces of winter melt away, we’ll also get ready to welcome back many of our warm weather favorites, like cruise nights in Oakland Beach, movies in the park, the summer concert series, and so much more. With only a few weeks to go before spring blossoms, it is difficult not to look ahead with anticipation and excitement. 

 Scott Avedisian is the mayor of Warwick.