Join Deana and special guest Joanne Giannini for the latest Rhode Island Wave Spotlight Interview as they break down everything you need to know for the February 2026 issue. From the excitement of the New England Patriots returning to the Super Bowl to a critical look at the RI General Assembly's new budget, this episode covers exactly what's "in" and what's "out" in the Ocean State. Whether you are concerned about Providence real estate trends, local public safety, or just looking for the best local bakery recommendations, Joanne delivers the signature unfiltered commentary that every Rhode Islander needs to hear.

In this jam-packed episode, the duo discusses the highs and lows facing the community this month. They celebrate local wins like the soaring housing market in Providence—now ranked the 4th hottest market in the country—and highlight new local businesses worth visiting. However, the conversation also gets serious as they tackle tough topics like recent violence on Manton Avenue, the efficiency of city snow removal services compared to past administrations, and a breakdown of City Council salaries. Joanne also shares a personal, nostalgic story about standing up to bullies and the importance of community support.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS VIDEO:

THE PATRIOTS ARE BACK: Thoughts on the Super Bowl return, Drake May, and team spirit.

POLITICAL WATCH: Analyzing the $14.7 billion state budget and legislative priorities.

REAL ESTATE NEWS: Why Providence, RI is outranking major cities in the housing market.

COMMUNITY CONCERNS: A candid discussion on recent crime, victim advocacy, and city services.

LOCAL FAVORITES: Shoutouts to Alexia’s Kitchen, the Warwick Animal Shelter, and more.

Support independent local journalism and stay connected with your community by picking up a copy of the paper or advertising with us. Subscribe to our channel for more monthly updates and interviews with local leaders!

CONNECT WITH RHODE ISLAND WAVE:

Website: https://therhodeislandwave.com/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheRhodeIslandWave

Are you frustrated with the current state of politics in Rhode Island? Discover a fresh perspective from a candidate who is ready to tackle the state's biggest challenges head-on. In this interview, meet Wil Gregerson, a librarian and community advocate running for Governor of Rhode Island as a Democrat, and learn about his comprehensive "Contract with Rhode Island."

This insightful conversation dives deep into Gregerson's motivation for running, which stems from a desire to solve longstanding problems like the housing crisis, broken healthcare systems, and soaring energy bills. Gregerson outlines his bold plan to reorganize the General Assembly into a full-time, effective body and reduce the unchecked power of leadership to ensure every bill gets a fair vote. He also discusses his vision for improving public transportation through RIPTA, creating a robust safety net for vulnerable citizens, and running a grassroots campaign focused on collaboration rather than big money.

IN THIS VIDEO, YOU WIL LEARN ABOUT:

LEGISLATIVE REFORM: Gregerson's plan to transform the part-time General Assembly into a full-time, year-round body to pass bills more efficiently.

POWER BALANCE: Strategies to reduce the authority of the Speaker of the House and Senate President to ensure fair representation for all districts.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT: Concrete solutions for pressing local issues, including housing affordability, healthcare access, and energy costs.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Proposals to revitalize RIPTA with express buses and better schedules to reduce congestion and improve reliability.

COALITION BUILDING: The strategy to recruit a coalition of 113 candidates to run alongside him, ensuring a collaborative government that works for everyone.

Ready to be part of the change Rhode Island needs? Visit Wil's Instagram to read the full contract and find out how you can join the coalition.

CONNECT WITH WIL GREGERSON:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/votewil26

Email: votewil26@gmail.com

Are you curious about what it takes to double for Hollywood stars like Hilary Swank and Alicia Silverstone? In this exclusive Spotlight interview with the Rhode Island Wave, martial arts legend Christine Bannon-Rodrigues opens up about her incredible journey from a local karate student to a 10th-degree black belt and sought-after Hollywood stuntwoman.

What to expect in this interview

Join host Deana as she sits down with Christine to discuss her extensive career in both martial arts competition and the film industry. You'll hear behind-the-scenes stories from the sets of The Next Karate Kid, Batman & Robin, and recent projects like Salem's Lot. Christine shares the physical demands of stunt work, revealing how perfection is required for every angle and take.

Beyond the glitz of Hollywood, this interview dives deep into Christine's roots in Warwick, Rhode Island. Discover how she started karate at age 13 to socialize with friends, only to fall in love with the discipline and eventually become a 9-time World Champion. Christine also discusses her current role as co-owner of the Don Rodrigues Karate Academy, where she teaches students of all ages—from "Little Dragons" to adults learning Krav Maga for self-defense.

Whether you are a martial arts enthusiast, a film buff, or someone looking for inspiration on discipline and confidence, this conversation offers a fascinating look at a life dedicated to mastery.

Ready to start your own martial arts journey? Visit the Don Rodrigues Karate Academy website today to learn more about their classes!

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: https://therhodeislandwave.com/[Insert Website Link]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRhodeIslandWave

Don Rodrigues Karate Academy: donrodrigueskarateacademy.com

Discover the newest hidden gem for caffeine lovers in Rhode Island! In this Spotlight interview, Deana from the Rhode Island Wave visits the newly opened Cowesett Coffee, located inside the historic Cowesett Inn, to explore why this local cafe is quickly becoming the go-to breakfast spot for residents in Warwick, West Warwick, and Coventry. If you are looking for a quality morning meal that tastes homemade, this is a video you don't want to miss.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS VIDEO

In this exclusive sit-down, Deana chats with Sonya Oliver, the dynamic manager behind the new enterprise. Sonya shares the story of the cafe's rapid success since opening in October 2024 and how she transitioned from the bartending industry to running this bustling coffee shop. You will get an inside look at their philosophy of creating a "one-stop shop" that caters to every taste preference, ensuring that locals finally have a high-quality venue right in the heart of West Warwick.

MENU HIGHLIGHTS & DIETARY OPTIONS

The video dives deep into the impressive menu variety available at Cowesett Coffee. Sonya explains how they customize drinks for everyone, offering everything from specialty lattes and Cafe Mochas to energy drinks and sodas. Whether you have specific dietary restrictions, prefer sugar-free options, or are looking for gluten-free breakfast items, they have you covered.

You will also see their mouth-watering food selection, which features fresh cracked eggs for their breakfast sandwiches, croissants, bagels, muffins, and even decadent desserts like cheesecake. They also prioritize kid-friendly options, making it a perfect stop for families on the go.

CONVENIENCE & HOURS

Learn about the cafe's convenient hours (Mon-Fri 7-4pm and Sat-Sun 7-3pm) and their availability on Door Dash for those mornings when you can't leave the house or office.

CONNECT WITH US

Hit the subscribe button on our channel to stay updated with more local business spotlights and interviews with Rhode Island entrepreneurs!

VISIT COWESETT COFFEE

Address: 226 Cowesett Avenue, West Warwick, Rhode Island 02893

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cowesettcoffeeri/?hl=en

Get ready for the biggest spring music event in Southern New England! In this exclusive spotlight interview, Deana from the Rhode Island Wave sits down with Sal Sauco, a founding member and board member of the Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance (RIBA), to preview the massive Bluegrass Bash coming to Bally's Twin River Casino. If you are a fan of Americana music, live performances, and community vibes, you won't want to miss this conversation about the best indoor festival of the year.

IN THIS VIDEO

Filmed on location at the Cowesett Inn in West Warwick, this interview dives deep into the details of the upcoming 2026 RIBA Bluegrass Bash. Sal shares the incredible lineup featuring Grammy-nominated headliners Blue Highway, along with seven other talented acts including the Rock Hearts, The Hazel Project, and the Ocean State Ramblers.

Beyond the festival logistics, Sal opens up about his personal musical journey. Discover how he transitioned from playing 70s rock on the guitar to finding his passion for the mandolin and the "high lonesome sound" of bluegrass 25 years ago. He also offers a fascinating history lesson on the genre's origins with Bill Monroe, explains the unique roles of instruments like the fiddle and Dobro, and discusses why the community aspect of these jams is so special.

Whether you are a long-time fan of mountain music or just looking for a fun event to attend this March, this video provides all the details you need. From workshops to jamming sessions and dancing in the aisles, find out why this 11-hour music marathon is the place to be.

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY

Ready to join the fun? Secure your spot at the RIBA Bluegrass Bash!

Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Location: Bally's Twin River Casino, Lincoln, RI

Tickets: $50 General Admission ($10 discount for RIBA members!)

👉 Buy Tickets & Join RIBA: https://www.ribluegrass.org/

CONNECT WITH US

Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance: https://www.ribluegrass.org/

Englund Studio (Sal Sauco): https://englundstudio.com/

Learn Mandolin or Guitar with Sal: Contact salsauco@gmail.com

Don't forget to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more spotlight interviews with the people making waves in Rhode Island!

Discover how a blue-collar contractor became the mayor of one of the safest cities in the United States. In this exclusive interview with the Rhode Island Wave, Mayor Frank Picozzi reveals the community-first approach that transformed Warwick, Rhode Island.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

Join us for a candid conversation with Mayor Frank Picozzi as he discusses his journey from running a roofing business to leading Warwick's City Hall. This spotlight interview covers the city's recent recognition by WalletHub and the strategic improvements made to public safety and infrastructure.

In this video, you will learn about:

THE SAFEST CITY RANKING: Understand the metrics and improvements behind Warwick's rise to become the #1 safest city in America, surpassing 180 other municipalities.

REBUILDING PUBLIC SAFETY: How the administration rebuilt the fire and police departments, addressing staffing shortages and upgrading critical equipment.

A NON-POLITICAL APPROACH: Mayor Picozzi discusses his unique position as an Independent, Italian-American mayor and how removing politics from local government has sparked economic development and cooperation.

COMMUNITY & DEVELOPMENT: From the revitalization of Rocky Point to new housing developments and the famous computerized Christmas display that launched a political career.

Whether you are a Warwick resident, a political enthusiast, or interested in urban safety and development, this interview offers a fascinating look at effective local leadership.

Stay updated on everything happening in Warwick!

SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more local spotlight interviews.

VISIT the City of Warwick website: https://www.warwickri.gov/

FOLLOW Mayor Frank Picozzi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frankpicozziformayor

READ the full safety report on WalletHub: https://wallethub.com/edu/safest-cities-in-america/41926

Is Rhode Island ready for a reset? In this exclusive interview, Republican gubernatorial candidate Aaron Guckian outlines his bold "Rhode Island Works Smarter" strategy, a plan designed to cut through the red tape, lower the cost of living, and revitalize the Ocean State's economy.

This video features an in-depth conversation with Deana from the Rhode Island Wave newspaper, where Aaron shares his journey from a local public school teacher and banker to a leader in state advocacy. You'll get a firsthand look at his five-pillar platform, which focuses on making the state affordable, rebuilding the education system, and fixing a broken healthcare model. Aaron explains how leveraging modern technology and empowering state workers can lead to massive savings—savings he plans to pass directly back to working families by reducing taxes and eliminating unnecessary fees.

Whether you are a concerned parent, a business owner, or a voter looking for change, this interview provides critical insights into how Aaron plans to hold state government accountable and build a pipeline for future generations to stay and thrive in Rhode Island.

Learn more about Aaron's campaign and get involved:

Visit the website: https://www.aaronforri.com/

Volunteer today: https://www.aaronforri.com/

Follow us for more updates:

https://therhodeislandwave.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TheRhodeIslandWave

Is the current political climate in the Ocean State stifling economic growth? In this exclusive spotlight interview, David Levesque, owner of Brewed Awakenings and founder of The League of Rhode Island Businesses (LORIB), discusses the critical need for pro-business reform in the RI Statehouse. If you are a Rhode Island business owner or a concerned citizen tired of high taxes and complex regulations, this conversation highlights a new path forward for common-sense legislation.

ABOUT THIS VIDEO

For over 29 years, David Levesque has operated in the local economy, but recent legislative trends have prompted him to take action. In this video, he sits down with the Rhode Island Wave to explain the mission behind The League of Rhode Island Businesses. The organization was formed to address the lack of a "fair shake" for businesses at the state level, specifically combating unconstitutional bills and an exploding state budget that has grown from $8 billion to over $14 billion in just a few years.

David explains that LORIB is a strictly nonpartisan organization. Whether a politician is a Democrat, Republican, Independent, or Libertarian, the League’s priority is supporting candidates who uphold the Constitution and advocate for lower taxes and less regulation. By forming political action committees (PACs), the League aims to raise funds to primary ineffective incumbents and endorse candidates who are truly dedicated to making Rhode Island a business-friendly state. Watch to learn how this movement is gathering momentum and how it plans to hold legislators accountable.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Are you ready to see real change in Rhode Island’s economy? Whether you can donate or simply want to stay informed, your involvement matters. Visit the website to sign up for the monthly newsletter, learn about endorsed candidates, or contribute to the cause.

🔗 Visit the website: https://theleagueofribusinesses.com/