The atmosphere was warm and sunny inside the State House on May 8th, as we gathered for the 20th Annual “Celebrate South County Day…and the Rest of the State!” officially kicking off National Tourism Week.

The South County Tourism Council has hosted the event annually, showcasing the power of travel, and bringing recognition to the benefits of tourism as it enhances the economy and perception of our state.   

A special shout-out of thanks to our longtime supporters:  Sweenor’s Chocolates, Del’s Lemonade, Kenyon Corn Meal Company, and Yawgoo Bakes & Barbecues.  They have sensationalized our taste buds with their delectable, unique, South County favorites on this special day for many years.

A round of applause to all of our South County exhibitors who offered a “Taste of South County,” with food samples including: Indian pudding topped with a dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream from Aunt Carrie’s, a Thomas Jefferson sweet potato muffin from the Babcock-Smith House Museum, handcrafted maple candy from Charlie’s Sugar House, just baked chocolate chip cookies from the General Nathanael Greene Homestead, luscious red velvet cupcakes from George’s of Galilee, and swordfish & salsa shooters from Meadow Brook Inn.

Other exhibitors showing the diversity of tourism offerings in South County included RI Resource Conservation & Development, Friend’s of Kingston Station, Sons of Liberty Spirits Co., Rhode Island’s Dressings, Charlestown and North Kingstown Chambers, along with the State Division of Tourism, and Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, joined us as we recognized the importance of travel and tourism industry's economic, social, and cultural contributions to the region.

Delightful smiling faces were seen throughout the State House rotunda as people enjoyed the first frozen lemonade of the season, sampled warm Johnny cakes and learned about the many offerings in the South County area.

A hearty thank-you, one and all!

 

Sincerely,

Myrna George

President & CEO, South County Tourism Council