Posted inCity & Government

Read: Governor Dan McKee’s inaugural address

January 3, 2023
**AS PREPARED FOR DELIVERY**
My fellow Rhode Islanders, it is a great honor to address you today as I begin my first full term as Governor of a state I love.
As you might have seen in my television commercials this past year – family is very important to me. And I’m glad to have them here with me today: my wife Susan, my daughter Kara, my son Matt, my daughter-in-law Laura, as well as my brothers and sisters and many of my nieces and nephews.
And – as the Governor who lives with his mother – I want to thank my mom Willa. I’m so grateful that she’s able to be here with us in person today.
And today, I’m also thinking about my dad who’s not with us anymore. To keep his memory with us for this special day, I have his office chair with me on stage. I’m also thinking about Susan’s parents, Joe and Esther.
Behind us you’ll also see the flags of all 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island. This is a reminder to all of us here on the stage of who we were elected to represent. It reminds us that every community in our state is important and so are the unique and diverse communities that make up our cities and towns.
When I gave my last inauguration speech, Rhode Island was facing a very different set of challenges stemming from a once-in-a-generation public health crisis. Challenges like we’ve never seen before.
I stood before you and made a commitment that, together, we would get shots in arms, get Rhode Islanders back to work, get teachers and students fully back in the classroom, and get our economy moving again.
I asked for your help because I knew it would take all of us, playing as one team, to get it done. As a former coach, I was proud to see our state’s teamwork in action.
As we all saw, Rhode Island stepped up when it mattered most. Together, we acted with persistence, strength, determination, community and kindness. We reached the highest vaccination rate in the nation, the lowest unemployment rate in our state’s history, the fastest economic recovery in the Northeast, and our kids got fully back to school safely and quickly.
Reminding ourselves of that success is important because it shows that when we work together as one team, we can accomplish what we set out to do. Our past success reminds us of the enormous and exciting potential for our state’s future.
And now, as one team, we must continue the momentum that we’ve built together.
Rhode Island, this is our time.
This is our moment. It’s our turn. And I need your help to make sure we make the most of it. Each and every Rhode Islander has a role to play in this next chapter – and as Governor, I’m asking you to do the work with us.
The good news is, we’re not starting from scratch. We have momentum.
We’re bringing offshore wind to East Providence. We’re building a new State Health Lab in Providence. We’re investing in our world-class fisheries in Galilee. We opened a new education center in Woonsocket. We’re making crucial investments in Quonset. We’re delivering historic tax relief to families. We’re saving Superman and breathing new life into downtown Pawtucket.
And we’re just getting started.
Over the next four years – my team and I will be focused on what matters most to the future of our state, what matters to the families of our state.
And to begin that work, we’re starting with our RI 2030 plan and these three goals:
First: raising incomes for Rhode Islanders in all 39 cities and towns. And when I say raising incomes, I mean investing in all of us and ensuring Rhode Islanders have the skills to get good-paying jobs.
Second: raising education outcomes for our children to reach Massachusetts levels by 2030. We must be all-in on improving education because that is the key to the long-term economic future of our state.
And finally: creating a healthier Rhode Island where we reduce chronic illness and improve health outcomes.
Before I wrap up, I want to share a story from someone I admire quite a bit – John Wooden, a basketball coach and player. The story goes like this:
There was a family that was moving to a small town and they stopped at the local gas station in the small town they were considering moving to.
The family asked the gas station attendant, “What kind of people live around here?”
The attendant said, “What kind of people live back where you’re from?”
The family said, “They’re ornery, mean and dishonest!”
The gas station attendant answered, “Well sir, you’ll find the people around here just like that as well.”
A few weeks later, another family stopped by the gas station and asked the same question.
“Excuse me sir, I’m thinking of moving to this town. Can you tell me what kind of people live around here?”
Again, the gas station attendant said, “Well, what kind of people live back where you’re from?”
The man replied, “I find the people where we live to be kind, decent and honest.”
The gas station attendant said, “Sir, you’ll find the people around here just like that too.”
The reason I tell this story is that it reminds us of something important – you often get exactly what you’re looking for.
Most Rhode Islanders are just like that second family at the gas station. We want to look for the best in this state. We want to look for the best in our fellow Rhode Islanders. And sometimes, looking for the best and seeing the best in what’s around us is half the battle.
One thing is clear to me as I look out into this room today: we have a tremendous opportunity to build a new Rhode Island.
A new Rhode Island where we succeed together by lifting each other up and helping everyone to do and achieve their best. It won’t be easy – but I know Rhode Island is up for the task.
Each and every Rhode Islander has a role to play in this next chapter – and as Governor, I’m asking you to join the team. It’s like my dad would say: “Success is there for you, all you have to do is earn it.”
I believe my dad was right. So let’s work hard, earn that success, and see the best in Rhode Island’s future. Let’s stay focused – not on what divides us, but what makes us stronger and what brings Rhode Islanders together.
I am humbled by the challenges before us, but I’ve never believed more strongly in our state’s future.
Rhode Island, this is our time. Our moment to shine. Our turn to raise everyone up. Now let’s get started.
God bless you, God Bless Rhode Island.?
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Posted inArts & Culture

Best Black movies of 2022

Black cinema had an impressive year. From the days of Black filmmakers creating movies for segregated Black audiences in the early 1900s, Black movies have come a long way down a rocky road. The Lincoln Motion Picture Company, established by George P. Johnson in 1916, was the first Black-owned company to produce Black stories for […]

Posted inNews

Where refugees to the US come from and why

In 2022, for the first time in history, the number of refugees worldwide reached more than 100 million people. Millions of people are fleeing violence, persecution, and economic instability, and attempting to start a new life in a more tolerant and secure country. Recognizing this global issue, the Biden administration has agreed to accept up […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Islanders invited to kick off the New Year with #FirstDayHike at Fort Wetherill State Park

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and America’s State Parks are inviting everyone to start the new year off enjoying time spent in nature, and tapping into the health benefits of being outdoors by joining a #FirstDayHike at Fort Wetherill State Park in Jamestown on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. To make it easy, state parks from Maine to California – are offering free First Day Hikes on January 1. The guided hikes are led by park staff members and volunteers who have expert knowledge of their respective locales.
What: First Day Hike 2023
When: Sunday, Jan. 1, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Where: Fort Wetherill State Park, 3 Fort Wetherill Rd, Jamestown
Divisions of the DEM Natural Resources Bureau will be on hand offering information about agency programs and services. Leashed dogs are allowed if the leash is no longer than six feet. A local historian will be on site offering education about Fort Wetherill. Children must be always accompanied by an adult. The 1.2-mile walk is wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly. The walk will be held rain or shine, so DEM encourages participants to dress accordingly. The main entrance will be closed to vehicle traffic during the hike. Participants are encouraged to park alongside the south side of Fort Wetherill Road.
Fort Wetherill State Park, situated upon 100-foot-high granite cliffs across the water from Fort Adams State Park, is a former coastal defense battery and training camp. Known for its spectacular view of Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, Fort Wetherill has been a popular sight for viewing the numerous Tall Ship Events and America’s Cup Races. This walk is part of DEM’s Strategic Mission to promote and increase outdoor recreation in Rhode Island and is the seventh such event DEM has hosted. For more information on the First Day Hike, please visit the RI Parks website. For information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov.
The National Association of State Park Directors promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With more than 6,800 park areas and visitation of 813 million people annually, the economic impact to local communities is estimated to exceed $20 billion each year. America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states.
Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM, Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates.

Posted inArts & Culture

Best films turning 50 in 2023

As 2022 draws to a close, many film enthusiasts are already looking ahead to their most anticipated releases of 2023. However, it’s also never too soon to start appreciating film anniversaries in the new year, and 2023 is chock-full of them. In fact, many iconic films are turning 50, marking half a century since some […]

Posted inNews

LGBTQ+ people who made history in 2022

2022 was a lavender ceiling-shattering year for LGBTQ+ politicians, athletes, artists, and actors. Queer pop stars topped the charts. LGBTQ+ candidates won their midterms races in record numbers. And historically large swaths of trans and nonbinary people graced the covers of magazines, dominated game shows and reality TV competitions, and won prestigious acting awards, increasing […]

Posted inNews

Major retail chains that no longer exist

At the start of this decade, many of America’s beloved major retailers announced that they’d be closing their stores—Papyrus, Macy’s, Pier 1 Imports, JCPenney—the list goes on. It’s a pattern that recurs throughout retail history. Chains grow quickly and incur new expenses as they expand. Then they hit the limit of their funding and growth […]

Posted inSports

12 sports records athletes set this year

Every year brings sports memories full of firsts and world-class athletes taking success in their sport to a new level. Was 2022 a great year for sports? Athletes like Antonio Brown, Brittney Griner, Baker Mayfield, Joe Burrow, and Serena Williams dominated headlines for various good, bad, and controversial reasons. The Los Angeles Rams, Houston Astros, […]

Posted inCity & Government

‘Tis the season to recycle your Christmas Tree, DEM collecting ‘Trees for Trout’ to improve wild trout, aquatic habitats

PROVIDENCE, RI –The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is again partnering with the Rhode Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited (TU) on a habitat restoration program called ‘Trees for Trout’, which collects donated conifer Christmas trees for future projects that improve habitat for wild brook trout and other aquatic organisms. The public is invited to drop off their Christmas tree at a collection event after the New Year.
What: ‘Trees for Trout’ Christmas tree collection
When: Saturday, Jan. 7, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Where: Arcadia Check Station, Wood River Arcadia Management Area, 2224 Ten Rod Rd, Exeter
Only drop off real trees, not fake ones or trees sprayed with fire-retardant chemicals. All decorations and lights, as well as the stand, must be removed before the tree is brought in.
The ‘Trees for Trout’ collection event was started by TU in 2018 to assist in restoration projects to fish habitats in the flowing freshwaters of Rhode Island. The trees are stored outside until the following summer, when they are used by DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) staff, along with volunteers from TU, to build “conifer revetments” where trees are strategically placed along riverbanks to provide stability and control erosion. The trees will trap sediment, decompose, and gradually become part of the banks themselves. The tree branches along the edges of the water will also offer protection for small native brook trout and other aquatic animals seeking a place to hide from predators.
Rivers are dynamic and constantly changing. In impaired stretches of rivers, channels often become wider than they should be and are absent of necessary habitat to support aquatic life. When banks erode, sediment is carried away by flows that fill in pools downstream. Conifer revetments act to stabilize eroding banks by slowing the flow of water and accumulating sediments. They also help narrow the river channel and confine the flow so that there is deeper water during low flows and more habitat for fish.
The ‘Trees for Trout’ program provides an excellent opportunity for the public to learn about river health, water quality, and habitat for aquatic species. The public should never dispose of Christmas trees in waterways or beaches. A considerable amount of planning goes into deciding where and how to construct these features. Also, permitting is legally required to modify any waterway under the Freshwater Wetlands Act. For help with proper disposal, visit: atoz.rirrc.org/items/real-christmas-trees. Follow DFW’s Outdoor Education page on Facebook to keep informed with project updates.
For more information about DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov or follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem and @RI.FishandWildlife) for timely updates.

Posted inCity & Government

McKee Administration to release request for qualifications for state’s non-emergency medical transportation program

PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, the McKee Administration’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services announced that is is releasing an RFQ (Request For Qualifications) for the state’s non-emergency medical transportation program. The RFP will be available later this evening on the state’s purchasing website, https://www.ridop.ri.gov.
“As part of our Administration’s Rhode Island 2030 Plan, we are building a state health system that supports affordable and accessible services to maximize good health outcomes for all Rhode Islanders,” said Governor Dan McKee. “The Rhode Islanders who rely on this essential transportation service deserve nothing less than safe, high-quality care every time they need a ride.”
Rhode Island’s non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) program serves as a critical link to human services for Rhode Islanders who require transportation. The NEMT program serves eligible and enrolled Medicaid beneficiaries, Rhode Island residents over the age of 60 who need transportation under the Elderly Transportation Program (ETP) and also manages monthly bus pass distribution under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program.
Rhode Island implemented an NEMT broker model in 2014, when it initially contracted with the company LogistiCare. In January of 2019, the State issued a new NEMT RFP and contracted with current provider MTM. The company facilitates approximately 5,350 trips per day and 160,000 trips each month.
At the direction of Governor McKee, EOHHS conducted extensive stakeholder engagement to gather feedback on the current Rhode Island NEMT Program and to explore opportunities for improvements to prepare for this RFQ. This outreach included virtual focus groups with members, community advocates, transportation providers, health care facilities, health care trade associations, Managed Care Organizations, and Accountable Entities. EOHHS also participated in an interagency review of the NEMT program convened by the Governor’s Office with other state agencies including the Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority, the Office of Healthy Aging and the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission. Additionally, EOHHS consulted with other state Medicaid agencies and reviewed over 20 of their NEMT contracts to strengthen contractor performance under the Rhode Island NEMT program and align with national best practice standards.
“We greatly appreciate the feedback we received from non-emergency medical transportation customers, healthcare providers and advocates,” said Executive Office of Health and Human Services Acting Secretary Ana Novais. “Many of the changes made to this new RFQ came directly from these listening sessions and lessons learned from other state Medicaid agencies that run similar broker models.”
This new RFQ includes several improvements taken from stakeholder feedback and research of other state NEMT models. This RFQ will build upon the current NEMT broker model by enhancing quality and safety assurances, EOHHS oversight and financial management through steps including:
– Utilizing EOHHS’ contracted external quality review organization to provide annual audits of the chosen contractor;
– An annual review by EOHHS of the contractor’s performance, including its transportation providers, through a report card or rating system;
– Promoting greater transparency of EOHHS’ oversight activities, including publication of corrective actions and remediation activities on EOHHS’ website;
– Specific timeframes for reporting critical incidents to EOHHS and developing standard protocols between the contractor and EOHHS;
– A standardized credentialing process to ensure that providers are credentialed in a timely manner and have all relevant credentials reviewed by the contractor through a routine process;
– Providing enhanced safety and special considerations related to the transportation of minors and special populations related to the dispatch of ride share services;
– Increasing opportunities for member feedback and ways for members to file complaints, grievances and appeals without fear of retaliation by the contractor or its subcontractors;
– Developing a standardized fee schedule for transportation providers to promote payment transparency;
– Ensuring better financial oversight practices to ensure the quality and economy of services, including conducting a yearly independent financial audit; and
– Requiring the contractor to employ a DEI Officer to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within organizational management – the first such requirement in the country;
– Requiring additional trainings for transportation providers, with specific attention on wheelchair training and cultural sensitivity.
“These improvements will ensure greater transparency, accountability and safety for those who rely on this transportation for their healthcare needs,” said Medicaid Program Director Kristin Sousa. “EOHHS is committed to continuously improving these services.”
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Posted inCity & Government

DEM: Don’t let the cold of winter stop you from exploring the outdoors – sign up for a DEM Outdoors Course

PROVIDENCE, RI – Whether you’re ready to bundle up and get outside or cozy up on the couch and tune in virtually, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) has another season of great winter programs scheduled to connect Rhode Islanders with our state’s beautiful natural resources. From fishing days and fly tying to hunter education classes, guided walks, and virtual programs, there’s something for everyone.
DFW’s Aquatic Resource Education, Hunter Education, Wildlife Outreach, and Volunteer programs have planned a packed schedule with plenty of opportunities to learn about Rhode Island’s fish and wildlife resources or to try out a new outdoor skill. Most of the programs being offered this winter are free of charge and family-friendly.
The programs are as follows:
Aquatic Resource Education Programs
Introduction to Freshwater Fishing, Fly Tying, and Casting Lesson (Ages 10+, parent or guardian required to be in attendance for participants under 18)
From lures, to flies, tackle, storage, safety, types of rods, and more, learn all the basics to become a successful angler. This comprehensive presentation will be instructed by one of RIDEM’s angler instructors and includes casting lessons and fly tying.
Date: Thursday, March 21
Time: Two sessions to choose from: 1:00 PM or 5:00 PM (3-hour sessions)
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Register here.
Cost: Free
Hunter Education Programs
Hunter Education (Ages 10+, parent or guardian required to be in attendance for participants under 18)
This in-person class is required to become certified to hunt with firearms in the State of Rhode Island. Open to participants from all states, this course provides a foundation for firearm safety, basic hunting techniques, basic survival and first-aid, ethics, conservation, and more. A 100-question test will be administered at the end of day two. This national curriculum has reciprocity with all 50 states.
Dates: Saturday-Sunday Jan. 14-15 (must attend both sessions)
Time: 9 AM-3 PM
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Pre-registration is required to be admitted. Register here.
Cost: Free
Land Navigation (Ages 10+, parent or guardian required to be in attendance for participants under 18)
This two-day course will begin with classroom learning on the topics of maps and compass, how to find a bearing and follow it. Day two will consist of using your newfound skills to solve field problems and navigate through the woods of Arcadia Management Area. Terrain will be moderate to difficult at times, appropriate hiking gear for the forecasted weather will be necessary to be successful.
Date: Friday-Saturday, Feb. 18-19 (must attend both sessions)
Time: 9 AM-5 PM
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Pre-registration required. Register here.
Cost: Free
Bowhunter Education (Ages 10+, parent or guardian required to be in attendance for participants under 18)
This in-person class is required to become certified to hunt with archery in the State of Rhode Island. Open to participants from all states, this course provides a foundation for archery safety, basic hunting techniques, basic survival and first-aid, ethics, conservation, and more. A state written exam will be administered at the end of class on day two. This national curriculum has reciprocity with all 50 states.
Dates: Saturday, March 11
Time: 9 AM- 3 PM
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Pre-registration is required to be admitted. Register here.
Cost: Free
Fur Trapper Course
This seven-hour course will cover various aspects of trapping, including the history of trapping, conservation and trapping regulations, the biology of different target species in RI, best management practices in the field, and types of traps. There will also be a hands-on demonstration on how to set traps, as well as uses for the animal and how to treat and tan hides.
Date: Sunday, Feb. 26
Time: 9 AM-4 PM
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Email branton.elleman.ctr@dem.ri.gov
Cost: Free
Junior Hunter Education Certification Class (Ages 12+, parent or guardian required to be in attendance for participants under 17)
Junior Hunter Education is for ages 17 and under, with lots of hands-on activities, visual aids, and easy to understand lessons. This is the certification class that you need if you plan to hunt with firearms in the State of Rhode Island. Open to juniors from all states, this course will provide you with a foundation for firearm safety, basic hunting techniques, basic survival and first-aid, ethics, conservation, and more. A state written exam will be administered at the end of class on day two. This national curriculum has reciprocity with all 50 states. Please note: Course content and state exam is written to a sixth grade reading level and you must be at least 12 years old to obtain a RI hunting license.
Date: Saturday, March 18
Time: 9 AM-6 PM
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Pre-registration required. Register here.
Cost: Free
Learn to Hunt (Ages 10+, parent or guardian required to be in attendance for participants under 18)
Participate in all the hands-on activities that are a part of the Hunter Education Certification program. Instructors will cover general safety, safe firearm handling, tree stands, ground blinds, basic hunting techniques, wilderness first-aid, and land navigation.
Dates: Saturday, March 25
Time: 5-9 PM
Location: DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife Outdoor Education Office, 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place, Exeter
Registration: Pre-registration required. Register here.
Cost: Free
Wildlife Outreach Programs
Wildlife Solutions: Nocturnal Nuisances (Adults)
Nocturnal mammals, like coyotes, foxes, and fishers, are greatly misunderstood; most of their fear-instilling actions are simply a part of their life history and survival strategies. Still, these critters can become a nuisance, especially when they begin to den under decks and dine out of chicken coops. Learning why these creatures behave the way they do is the key to finding resolution. This session will help you identify what attracts these animals to your yard, and how to make your property less hospitable. Learn about the discoveries made by the Narragansett Bay Coyote Study and see what we have already learned through the collaborative Fisher Project with URI. This will be a hybrid virtual program in partnership with Louttit Library.
Date: Tuesday, Jan. 31
Time: 6:30-8:30 PM
Location: Hybrid- in- in person at Louttit Library, 274 Victory Highway, West Greenwich or via Zoom
Registration: Register here.
Cost: Free?
Come Birding with Me! (Families)
Are you looking for a fun February vacation activity? Join us for a family-friendly birdwatching adventure on the shoreline this winter! Learn about the beautiful migratory birds that spend their winter along RI’s coastline each year and how DFW and our research partners are studying their populations. Binoculars and spotting scopes will be available to borrow so that everyone can get a closer look at these unique birds!
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 12
Time: 6-7:30 PM
Location: East Bay Bike Path (Watchemoket Cove), East Providence
Registration: All ages are welcome to attend this FREE program, but registration is required to receive a Zoom link. Register here.
Cost: Free
Come Birding with Me! (Adults)
Join us for a birdwatching adventure on the shoreline this winter! Learn about the beautiful migratory birds that spend their winter along RI’s coastline each year and how DFW and our research partners are studying their populations. Binoculars and spotting scopes will be available to borrow so that everyone can get a closer look at these unique birds!
Date: Saturday, Feb. 25
Time: 10-11:30 AM
Location: Beavertail State Park, Jamestown
Registration: Register here.
Cost: Free
Volunteer Programs
Rhode Island Bumblebee Survey
DFW is looking for volunteers to conduct bee surveys for the 2023 Rhode Island Bumblebee Survey (RIBS) season! If you enjoy spending time outdoors, are curious for plants and insects, and would like to help Rhode Island biologists learn more about these fuzzy pollinators in our state, this program is for you.
Date: Spring 2023
Registration: Register here.
Cost: Free?
Annual Herring Count Surveys (All ages)
DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is always looking for new volunteers for our long-standing herring count survey. Volunteers count herring for 10-minute intervals at select sites across the state as these interesting fish complete their annual spring migration upstream. This is an excellent opportunity for families with children! Sign-up information will be available in March.
Date: March 2023
Registration: Subscribe to our monthly email list for sign up information. Register here.
Cost: Free?
For more information about DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov or follow us on Facebook and Fish and Wildlife, Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem and @RI.FishandWildlife) for timely updates.

Posted inFood & Drink

From coast to coast: The best regional fast-food chains to try

Beloved fast-food chains are scattered across the country, even stretching past international borders. McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s are three of the most common burger chains across the country, along with other treasured chains like Subway, KFC, and Starbucks. The love for quick-service food certainly has expanded. According to an IBISWorld tally, there are 197,163 fast-food […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Best Christmas movies of all time, according to critics

Since well before Thanksgiving, streaming and cable networks have featured Christmas movies in anticipation of the season. Some wholesome classics, like “Miracle on 34th Street” or “It’s a Wonderful Life,” have stood as holiday standards for generations. Others are forging new traditions, with prolific holiday production house Hallmark premiering new offerings every year and streamers […]

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