FROM THE PUBLISHER

Zuber & Cie , French , Irisé Wallpaper ; Design for Moire Silk , ca . 1825 . Mary B . Jackson Fund .

“ The way I see it , if you want the rainbow , you gotta put up with the rain .” — Dolly Parton

AS I SAT DOWN TO WRITE THIS MONTH ’ S NOTE ,

I read a news report that Rhode Island ’ s chronic financial woes were anticipated to return with a $ 300 million budget deficit . Hasbro , a source of great hometown pride , is likely — with a nod to the Dropkick Murphys — shipping up to Boston .

CVS , another homegrown business , is experiencing financial difficulties as it tries to navigate the everconfusing health care landscape , perhaps reminded that bigger is not necessarily better . And then there ’ s the Washington Bridge , a poster child for years of neglect .

It remains partially closed , with some saying 2028 is the likely resolution target . And this time of year , I still miss Benny ’ s . Happy new year ? So in our monthly effort to improve your mental outlook on life here in Little Rhody , we have assembled “ A Flurry of Fun ,” things to do in the Ocean State whether you ’ re a lover of the great outdoors or , like me , you ’ ll find any excuse to stay warm . Digital Editor Kait Murray and Associate Editor Tabitha Pereira ( with contributions from the team ) pulled together a long list of things to do , from sledding and tubing to go-karting and ax throwing .

There are things to do for all those spending the month “ adulting ,” and for kiddos on winter break , with plenty to keep them engaged and busy .

Our editor , resident foodie extraordinaire Jamie Coelho , has a look at the exciting new Track 15 food hall [“ On the Right Track ”]. She reminds us that the Marsella family , who is responsible for this project , worked with the legendary Mayor Vincent “ Buddy ” Cianci , often called both visionary and rogue , to develop Waterplace Park , ironically within walking distance of the new food emporium .

In this issue , we ’ re also pleased to publish an excerpt from the new memoir by Judge Frank Caprio , “ the nicest judge in the world .” I , like thousands of Rhode Islanders , have had the pleasure of crossing paths with “ his honor ” on many occasions , always being greeted with a smile on his face , a gregarious handshake and a general interest in my well-being . Many of us followed along , simpatico , during his recent journey with cancer . So , even though it ’ s February and it ’ s cold and you think you ’ re too old to go careening down a snowy hill in a saucer , horseback riding or skating , let me remind you : “ There ’ s power in looking silly and not caring that you do .” — Amy Poehler

To the Rhode ahead . — J . J . P .

ILLUSTRATION : CHERYL CHALMERS .