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Grabbing a drink doesn’t limit you to the local liquor store or the six-pack shoved in the back of your fridge. You want atmosphere and a place to hang out with your friends where you can get some wings or a basket of fries to eat. Come Friday, you need it! It’s five o’clock somewhere, right? Read further for the best places to grab a drink near Warwick, RI, where you can kick back and relax! Bo’s Bar & Billiards In the mood for pool? Bo’s Bar & Billiards knows it, and that’s why their pub features 25 pool tables for you and your billiard buddies to take over. Need to zone out? Watch one of 22 big-screen TVs scattered throughout the bar. Choose from 20 different draft beers and 100 various liquors for the friendly bartenders to mix and match or create your favorite drink. Be sure to check out the various specials throughout the week. Monday nights, treat yourself to All You Can Eat Wings. Squelch your craving for a margarita on Taco Tuesdays. On Wednesdays, celebrate the ladies with Ladies Night, and on Sunday, enjoy free pool all night and 20 cent wings. Check them out on Facebook! Boneheads Hang out at Boneheads where their wings and entertainment rock! Wing lovers bond over 55 spicy, sweet, and savory sauces and over 25 distinct rubs. Rock fans who relish a flavorful burger will love the Crazy Train, which has pulled pork and buffalo cheese sauce. Vegan fans can dig into the Robert Plant, made with black beans and sweet potatoes. Live bands take the stage on the weekends to rock the house. Tune in to one of the 10 different TVs and projection screens showing movies, sports, and more. Order drinks up from a full bar with specialty cocktails, including seasonal drinks, which appear on their Facebook page. On the Roch’s Neighborhood Restaurant & Pub Welcome home to On the Roch’s Neighborhood Restaurant & Pub! Your home away from home will become your new hangout with friendly wait staff and a cozy atmosphere. Walk in to live music every Friday and Saturday night and trivia on Wednesday evenings. Order a drink from their great selection of craft beers or try out a cocktail special. Plenty of healthy options and comfort food staples populate the large menus. Let your eyes grow wide when you get the huge portions they serve—but don’t worry; you can always get a doggy bag! Night owls enjoy late-night dining. Visit their Facebook page for a peek at their menu. Time to Grab a Drink near Warwick RI Even if it’s noon now, it’s five o’clock somewhere. So, meet up with some friends and grab a drink near Warwick, RI, at one of these three kick-back-and-relax neighborhood pubs.

Water is unavoidable. 71 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered in water. 60 percent of your body is water. With water being inescapable, we should do everything to keep it as clean as possible. With the Clean Water Act of 1972 as their founding principle, Clean Water Action works to protect the environment as well as our health. Keep reading to learn more about this organization and their dedication to clean water! Decades of Fighting: Clean Water Action History Founded in 1972, Clean Water Action has worked for nearly 50 years with the mission of keeping our waterways clean, our environment safe, and our bodies healthy. This is achieved by organizing strong grassroots organizations as well as campaigning for environmentally friendly candidates to win office. Some of the ways Clean Water Action goes about this include: Removing toxins from products Protecting from drilling, fracking, and power plant pollution Supporting strong clean water laws In a nutshell, Clean Water Action works to support small organizations and candidates who are supporters of clean water around the world. Threats to Water With water being such a crucial part of our daily life, Clean Water Action fights to make the water that we drink and bathe in, and that supports our ecosystems as clean and fresh as possible. Despite their efforts, there are still factors that are threatening their efforts. These threats include oil, climate change, and waste. Single use products are a major contributor to water waste. Items like plastic bags, food packaging, water bottles, and many other items end up in our rivers, lakes, and oceans. Clean Water Action works to fight the use of singe use products on local and national levels by speaking to businesses and politicians alike. Ways to Get Involved With their lifelong dedication to clean water, Clean Water Action has made getting involved easier than ever. Plus, they offer several different ways to get involved with the organization as well as several informative resources. Just a few of the ways you can get involved with Clean Water Action include volunteering, donating, and making environmentally friendly choices. Volunteer Volunteering your time to help keep our water clean is a fun and rewarding way to pave a path for a cleaner future. Several events are held annually. The best way to stay on top of these volunteering events is to check out their Facebook page. Donate Those who might not be able to volunteer are welcome to make a donation towards their cause. You’ll even have several different ways you can donate: monthly gift, gift of stock, legacy giving, or a donation to celebrate or remember someone. Make Good Choices Making better, more environmentally friendly choices is an easy way to support Clean Water Action. Switching from power plant energy to clean, renewable energy is a simple way you can ensure a better future for future generations. Get Involved with Clean Water Action Today Are you ready to take the first step to making Earth a cleaner, safer place? If so, Clean Water Action is a great place to start. With several volunteering opportunities as well as a wide array of ways you can give back, Clean Water Action makes helping fast, fun, and easy. What are you waiting for? Get involved with Clean Water Action today!

>>> Follow them on Facebook! <<< The future is bright thanks to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island. This influential non-profit has been able to make a difference in the lives of many young Rhode Island residents. Do you have what it takes to be a Big and give back to your community? Want to learn more about BBBSRI? Continue reading to see how this organization has made an impact over the years. All Youth Should Be Able to Reach Their Potential Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island seeks to ensure all youth are able to achieve their potential. The organization seeks to do this through one-to-one mentoring opportunities as well as through embracing diversity and inclusiveness to cultivate a positive environment. Mentoring programs have been shown to be influential, providing benefits to those who participate. When a Little has a Big, they feel more confident in their ability to complete work than children who don’t have mentors. Adult role models can play a role in the lives of the youth of Rhode Island. These role models are selected and trained to help children cope with peer pressure, think critically, and become involved in social activities. Give Back to the Community By Becoming a Big Have you always wondered if you’re cut out to become a Big for a Little in need? Being a mentor is a big deal, and it’s those everyday moments that can make all the difference in someone else’s life. You’re required to be caring, consistent, and willing to develop a friendship with a child. The main priority is to build strong, long-term relationships and provide growth for all parties involved. January is National Mentoring Month, and there’s never been a better time to step in and make a difference in someone else’s life. 100% of financial contributions to BBBSRI goes back to programs to provide background checks, volunteer trainings, and dedicated match support for their Bigs and Littles! By making a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island, you can significantly change the direction of a child’s life in a BIG way. Your gift makes it possible for the agency to provide caring adult mentors for over 300 boys and girls throughout RI. Visit BigsRI.org to see how you can make a financial contribution. Make a Donation and Get Involved Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island operates the donation center program in partnership with Savers thrift store. Gently used clothing and household items can be donated to help the youth in the community reach their potential. Donating is a breeze, too. Free home pickup service is available, and there are many donation drop-off spots located throughout the Ocean State. Visit DonateRI.org to schedule a pickup or find a drop-off location. Acceptable items include toys, clothing, bedding, kitchen wares, and sporting goods. Get in touch with Big Brothers Big Sisters Rhode Island if you have any further questions about what you can donate. Big Brothers Big Sisters Makes a Difference In Rhode Island Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island has been able to make an impact over the years right here in Rhode Island. Want to become a Big and make a difference in a child’s life? Thinking of getting involved? Have goods to donate? There are so many different ways to interact with BBBSRI. Explore them today!

Follow them on Facebook! There are plenty of charities around the United States that aim to provide certain children with funds to follow their dreams, but none quite like A Wish Come True. This volunteer-run organization has been around for more than three decades, helping the children in and around the Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts area. Qualified children can receive funding to follow a specific dream, ranging from getting a pet to bedroom makeovers to family vacations. We thought that A Wish Come True deserved a shout-out, which is why we put together this guide explaining who they are and what they do. Their Story Established in 1982, A Wish Come True is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit. Their mission is “to grant medically qualified children between the ages of 3 and 18 one memorable wish.” This was the first organization of its type in Rhode Island, and they completed 12 wishes in the opening year and now average 3 wishes per month. Granted Wishes The best way to learn what this charity does is to see past wishes that have been granted: shopping sprees and cruises, trips to Disney World, celebrity meet-and-greets, and more. Every wish is unique, and A Wish Come True has completed over 1,600 wishes in the past 37 years. Average wish costs come in between $5,000 to $7,000 and are dependent on the parameters of the wish and medical needs. "A Wish Come True is always proud to partner with Speedcraft Nissan.  The community support is greatly needed as we serve our local children," stated Mary-Kate O'Leary, Executive Director.  "The wish we received gave us the hope and joy we needed at a time when we thought we would never smile again.  A special thank you to all those that support A Wish Come True," stated Janice, a Wish Mom. How to Help & Refer Regardless of how busy you may be, there are several things that you can do to support the organization. One of the easiest ways to help is to simply register A Wish Come True as your preferred charity the next time that you’re purchasing something on Amazon. The Kids Helping Kids program allows younger people to raise funds in a variety of ways—volunteer events, car washes, bake sales, dances, or a one-off event—for Wish children around Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. For bridal showers as well as baptisms and baby showers, A Wish Come True offers a one-of-a-kind “thank you” for your guests. These thoughtful cards each have a custom message to let your guests know a donation was made on their behalf. Get Involved with A Wish Come True We hope that you enjoyed learning about A Wish Come True and how the organization assists children around Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts in fulfilling their dreams. There are many ways that you can get involved with the organization, too. Whether it’s a donation, volunteerism, or a corporate partnership, anyone can support their mission.

View New Nissan Inventory View Used Vehicle Inventory Enter the $5K Test Drive Giveaway! Winner David T. Test Drove and Bought a Volkswagen Passat TDI Wakefield, RI— Today, Speedcraft Auto Group announced the winner of their hot-ticket summer promotion, the 5K Test Drive Giveaway. The event drew entrants from across the region, eager to test drive a vehicle of their choice for the chance to win $5,000. The winner was David T., a Speedcraft Volkswagen customer who test drove a VW Passat TDI. His name was drawn by a Speedcraft service customer and her daughter, who gamely played along. David was overjoyed to take home the winnings, saying, “I’ve never won anything before.” There’s a first time for everything, and Speedcraft was happy to see the prize go to such a deserving customer. David was satisfied with his test drive, too. He chose to buy the VW Passat TDI and says he is happy with the high gas mileage he sees on the highways. This is the first time Speedcraft has offered a promotion like this. The contest, which ran from June 1 st to August 31 st, reflected the company’s desire to do something fun and different this summer. James Dartt, Vice President of Speedcraft, said the promotion was intended to offer an enticing taste of what makes the Speedcraft Advantage so special. The event was so successful that a repeat showing is already underway. The latest 5K Test Drive Giveaway began on September 1 st and will continue through the end of the year. Participants have until December 31 st to enter. Speedcraft Auto Group wishes all participants good luck! About Speedcraft Auto Group: Speedcraft provides local Rhode Islanders with Acura, Nissan, and Volkswagen vehicles, as well as top-tier auto service and parts. All Speedcraft stores are Rhode Island-owned and -operated. They pride themselves as a local business and see events like these as the perfect opportunity to strengthen their roots in the community. Contact Us

Follow them on Facebook! Did you know that one in eight households in the Ocean State lacks adequate food? It’s an unfortunate and sad reality, but the Rhode Island Community Food Bank has been working hard to turn the tide and help families and individuals in need across the state. This organization has done incredible work. Through compassion, innovation, and collaboration, the Food Bank is making a difference in the lives of Rhode Island residents. Let’s take a closer look at what they’ve been able to accomplish, and where they’re hoping to make an impact next. The Important Facts You Need to Know The Food Bank is able to distribute food to people in need through a large member network of 168 agencies. These agencies can include food pantries, shelters, meal sites, youth programs, and senior centers. Over 50,000 Rhode Islanders receive food assistance at one of these locations each month. Last year alone, the Food Bank was able to distribute 11.6 million pounds of food. Many individuals and families are impacted by hunger every day. With a 77,000-square-foot facility, a fleet of trucks and professional staff, the Food Bank is able to collect, store, and distribute food from various sources. Each week, up to 200,000 pounds of food will head out the doors. It’s all about serving Rhode Islanders in need. Giving Back There are many ways to give back and help the Food Bank. Donating funds is one way to go about things. You can use the online donation page, call, or organize an online fundraiser. The Sustainers Harvest program is a great way to get involved. This allows you to set up monthly donations, which will be deducted from your credit card automatically. You can also make a difference by hosting a food drive of your own. Consider organizing a food drive in the neighborhood or at your school, business, or organization. Posters and collection bins can be provided to make things easy for you. Drop-off donations of non-perishable food items are also accepted on weekdays at the Food Bank. Join in for a fun evening of volunteering and networking at Food Bank After Hours, perfect for those who work during the day, but still want to find some time to give back at night. Groups and students are also welcome to come and volunteer at the Food Bank. A Commitment to Serving Those in Need Here in Rhode Island Hunger is a crisis facing many Rhode Island residents each and every day. Young and old, male and female, each day there are people in our state who do not know where their next meal will come from. The Rhode Island Food Bank has been working tirelessly to serve those in need here in the Ocean State. Get in touch with the Food Bank to donate your time, or give back with what will be a greatly appreciated donation. With your help, the Food Bank will be able to continue serving Rhode Island residents each day. Connect on Facebook.

Follow them on Facebook! It’s true: You can make a difference in someone else’s life. Becoming a mentor means you’ll form a one-on-one relationship with a student or an adult learner who needs support and attention. Mentor Rhode Island is looking for positive role models to become mentors to those in need of support. If you have an hour of time to volunteer each week to your mentee, you can become their mentor, providing guidance and assistance. An Official Partner of MENTOR Mentor Rhode Island is proud to be an affiliate of MENTOR, ensuring young people have the support they need so they’re able to succeed at home, at school, and ultimately in life. Mentor Rhode Island started as a partnership between Warwick Public Schools, MetLife, and the Chamber Education Foundation. The model was successful in Warwick Public Schools, so it became a statewide program and has served all of Rhode Island since 1999. Become a Mentor Mentor Rhode Island is looking for you, and it only takes one hour per week of your time. As of right now, there are over 900 children on a waiting list looking for a mentor in Rhode Island. You can make an impact in a child’s life. How do you become a mentor? 1. Take some time to fill out the mentor application. You’ll have a chance to share your interests and any skills you may have, and share whether you have a preference for an age range or a certain gender. 2. A background check will be completed. You’ll also head to a two-hour orientation and training workshop, where you’ll meet some of the other new mentors. A manual will be provided, featuring tips and activities you’ll share with a mentee. 3. Information will be provided about a prospective mentee, and with approval, the introductory meeting with your mentee will be scheduled. Programs Run by Mentor Rhode Island There are various mentor programs run by the organization. These are some of the programs: Aquidneck Island Mentor Program Cranston Mentor Program Warwick Mentor Program Woonsocket Mentor Program Pawtucket Mentor Program These are all school-based one-to-one mentoring programs. All mentoring is done on school grounds, during the school day, throughout the school year. All you need is the completed mentor application, background check, training session, and a 1-year commitment. Ideally, you’ll stay matched for several school years. The Let’s Make This Work Program is a 3-phase, community-based mentoring program. Participants will be paired with a volunteer mentor from a local business. Mentees will receive valuable experience and gain real-world work experience via an internship program. A Statewide Leader in Mentoring Mentor Rhode Island currently offers mentoring programs across the state of Rhode Island. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, get in touch with them. It’s only an hour a week of your time, and it can make an immeasurable difference in someone’s life! Contact Christopher Margadonna at Cmargadonna@mentorri.org for more information on the organization and volunteering opportunities!

The Providence Animal Rescue League serves communities throughout Rhode Island and has become known for their work as a non-profit animal shelter. Since 1913, PARL has been a part of the community, providing shelter and care for those animals in need. This local shelter works hard to provide permanent homes for animals, while reducing pet overpopulation through affordable spay/neuter services. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key services PARL offers to the community, and how you can be of assistance to them. Building Lasting Relationships Through Adoption PARL is proud to be an open adoption animal shelter, meaning that you’ll find a welcoming and open adoption process, without rigorous applications, home visits, and other extreme measures. The adoption process is entirely conversation-based, building a trusting and lasting relationship with adopters. PARL is able to serve thousands of homeless pets annually, offering pet surrender services which are designed to assist you. While it can be a difficult decision to surrender your pet, the staff will guide you through the process in an effort to place your pet in a forever home. Become an Active Volunteer or Foster Parent PARL offers a range of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are able to help animals each year with their services. Direct care opportunities include morning animal care, shelter care, and dog walker. There are also supportive opportunities, including events and outreach. PARL is always happy to welcome individuals, businesses, schools, and organizations looking to volunteer their time. Foster parents are also critical to the success of PARL. You can help a pet avoid the stress associated with a shelter environment by participating in the foster program. Accessible Spay and Neuter Services Spay and neuter services are available at PARL for dogs, cats, and rabbits. Cat and dog surgery appointments include one-year basic vaccinations. To address the companion animal overpopulation issue, PARL does have a free spay program. After surrendering kittens or puppies to PARL, your pet is eligible for the Once is Enough program. For more information, get in touch with the PARL staff today. An Animal Shelter Serving the Community The bond between animal and human can be a special one. The Providence Animal Rescue League provides shelter and care for animals in need of assistance, and helps to reduce pet overpopulation through spay and neuter services. They’re a true gem in the community. Be sure to show them your support through adopting a pet, volunteering, or donating to the organization.

Are you having trouble making plans for New Year’s Eve? We’re here to help! Check out this list of New Year’s Eve 2017 events in Providence, R.I. Start your New Year off right. NYE One Providence Swing by downtown Providence for the first-ever ball drop and fireworks show. Who needs Times Square? Enjoy food trucks, as Financial Way will be closed, hot chocolate, face painting, music, and a laser light show around the basin of Waterplace Park. In addition, a separate, ticket-only black tie event in Skyline at Waterplace features dinner, valet, dessert and additional entertainment. It all starts at 7. All outdoor activities are free and open to the public. “Providence is the perfect place to celebrate the New Year,” said Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza. “Residents from across Rhode Island are welcome to join us for another memorable night in the Creative Capital complete with outdoor musical performances in our very own Waterplace Park and fireworks over the city to finish the night.” Learn more here. The Midnight Ball Are you looking for a crazy party to attend this New Year’s Eve? The Midnight Ball is a big party with DJs playing the hottest hits. You’ll be in good company with 800 other party-goers and celebrate the New Year with an exhilarating experience. Learn more. Marriott Downtown The Marriott Downtown in Providence is holding specials for those who like a fine meal along with party supplies and accommodations on New Year’s Eve. To learn more, check out their website for more information.