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Need Help with July 4th Plans? Leave it to Speedcraft VW!

Speedcraft VW wishes you a safe and happy Independence Day!

July 4th Events in Rhode Island 2014

While our vehicles might be European in their engineering, we at Speedcraft VW in Wakefield, RI, are brimming with American pride. This is never more true than during our yearly Independence Day celebrations, as we occupy an area of the country that is peppered with historical and geographical locations that help make the events extra special. But have you made your plans for the holiday yet? Here are a few 4th of July events in southern Rhode Island to consider when you’re making your itinerary, courtesy of your friends at Speedcraft VW.

Bristol Celebrates July 4th! — Bristol, RI — July 3rd & 4th The nearby city of Bristol, RI, can lay claim to the title of “America’s Oldest 4th of July Celebration,” and this year is their 229th. Their festivities kick off on Thursday night with live music at Independence Park in downtown Bristol, and continue with fireworks over Bristol Harbor at 9:30pm. The events continue the next morning at 10:30am with the 4th of July Parade through downtown Bristol. Get there early to secure your spots along the parade route! Bristol's 4th of July celebration is the oldest in America. BankRI Independence Day Celebration 2014 — India Point Park, Providence, RI — July 4th The July 4th celebration in Rhode Island’s largest city promises to be among the major draws in the area, kicking off at 7:30pm with a free concert by the Rhode Island Philharmonic Pops Orchestra. The concert is followed by a fireworks display at 9:15 at India Point Park, and for a little additional excitement, you can park your boat in the bay for the show! Rose Island Lighthouse BBQ & Fireworks — Newport, RI — July 4th While you can always watch the Newport fireworks show free-of-charge from locations such as Fort Adams State Park, this event demands attention. Take a ferry from Newport Harbor at 5:30pm to Rose Island for a delicious meal and great music, then watch the fireworks from across Narragansett Bay. Prices are $85 for adults and $35 for children ages 6-12, and reservations are required. Jamestown Fireworks 2014 — Jamestown, RI — July 5th For those who are busy during the early part of the weekend, this event may bet the best option. Taking place at East Ferry Beach on Saturday, the show is free-of-charge (although donations are accepted), and begins at 9pm. The fireworks are launched from a barge near the ferry landing, giving viewers a terrific vantage for viewing. We at Speedcraft VW would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July, and hope to see you soon at our Volkswagen dealership in nearby Wakefield, RI!  
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10 Must-See Scenic Drives in Rhode Island

10 Must-See Scenic Drives in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is an incredible state to explore with your Volkswagen. From the coastline to the rolling hills of southern Rhode Island, this small state packs a lot into its 48 miles of land. Here are ten of the most scenic drives you can take in the Ocean State that will make you fall even more in love with your VW. Newport Coastline Drive – This drive along the coast offers stunning views of the ocean and beautiful beaches. It starts at Castle Hill Inn and takes you past Fort Adams and Fort Wetherill, before ending up at Brenton Point State Park. South County Trail – If you’re looking for some peace and quiet while driving around Rhode Island, then this is definitely the drive for you. The South County Trail takes you through rural villages, past freshwater ponds, and into beautiful woods full of wildlife. Block Island Ferry – Take a ride on one of the Block Island ferries from either Galilee or Point Judith Harbor. The ferry ride itself is quite scenic as it gives you great views of both Block Island and mainland Rhode Island from out on the water. Once on Block Island, hop back into your VW and explore all that this little island has to offer! Scenic Tour Through Narragansett Bay – Start off at Jamestown Beach then head east to Conanicut Park via Mackerel Cove Road where there are plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic lunch or just take in the view of Narragansett Bay from shoreside cliffs! From there, continue east through North Kingstown before looping back towards Jamestown Beach via Old Tower Hill Road for some great views over Narragansett Bay again! Westerly Sunsets – Head west from Watch Hill across Little Narragansett Bay to Weekapaug Point where you’ll be treated to some amazing sunsets over Block Island Sound each night! On your way back make sure to stop off at Napatree Point which is known for its incredible beachfront sunsets too! Lincoln Woods State Park - Head north through Providence towards Lincoln Woods State Park where you can explore 6 miles of trails perfect for walking/hiking/biking with lots of scenic spots along the way like Olney Pond and Moonstone Beach! Beavertail Lighthouse - Take a short drive south down Route 1A towards Beavertail Lighthouse located at one end of Conanicut Point in Jamestown RI for some spectacular views out over Narragansett Bay that will take your breath away! Tiverton Four Corners - Drive east from Tiverton Four Corners towards Sakonnet Point where there are plenty of great spots along this route that offer amazing views including Fogland Marsh (a great spot for bird watching!), Historic Main Street/Water Street, and Seapowet Marsh (another great spot for bird watching!). Newport Mansions & Cliff Walks - Head south down Bellevue Avenue which is lined with some incredible mansions right near the edge of Cliff Walk which provides breathtaking views down onto Easton’s Beach below! Providence Waterfront Loop - Taking a drive around Providence’s waterfront loop provides fantastic views out over Narragansett Bay as well as glimpses into Providence’s diverse neighborhoods like Federal Hill, Armory District etc., making it a must do when in RI regardless if driving a VW or not! Rhode Island VW Scenic Rides No matter what type of Volkswagen vehicle you own—whether it be a sedan, SUV, or convertible—Rhode Island has so much beauty to offer that any drive is sure to be enjoyable no matter what kind of car you have behind wheel! With any luck these top ten drives will provide enough inspiration to get out there and explore everything The Ocean State has to offer while also showing off your awesome VW vehicle at same time! Enjoy your next trip around Rhode Island and feel free to stop by Speedcraft VW!

Local Spotlight: United Way of Rhode Island

Local Spotlight: United Way of Rhode Island

There’s no reason needed to volunteer other than the want to give back. That’s why the United Way of Rhode Island was created. With a wide selection of programs for individuals of all ages, the United Way of Rhode Island makes it easier than ever to help others. Keep reading to learn more! About United Way of Rhode Island The United Way of Rhode Island dates back nearly 100 years. Founded in 1926, originally named the Providence Community Fund (PCF), over $480,000 was raised in only one week. In the 1940s the PCF partnered with several other local fundraising organizations to help as much as possible during WWII. Over the next several decades United Way of Rhode Island continued to grow all while maintaining their purpose of changing lives while also building the community. This is achieved with their five core values: Integrity: maintain the highest standards of accountability, particularly when it comes to funds and fairness Impact: work to make a difference in the lives they touch Engagement: create strong and trusting relationships in and out of the community Inclusiveness: treat everyone the same Catalytic Leadership: build leadership with the intention of building the community Overall, the United Way of Rhode Island has a mission of helping everyone and anyone who needs assistance, no matter what. In their own words, “Because 90,000 households in Rhode Island are struggling to meet basic needs, we help families with the essentials. We believe not only in helping people through an immediate crisis, but also in funding programs that help people develop the tools they need to provide for themselves and their families. And we provide one place for everyone to call when they need help.” United Way of Rhode Island Programs Throughout the year the United Way of Rhode Island hosts several events all with the vision of helping children love learning and helping train adults for careers. One program that the United Way of Rhode Island hosts annually is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This program allows you to get your taxes filed for free while IRS-trained and certified volunteers help with questions along the way. All across Rhode Island you’ll find dozens of VITA locations sponsored by Citizens Bank. Involvement Opportunities The United Way of Rhode Island makes it easy for individuals to get involved by offering a variety of ways you can contribute. Some of the most popular ways to take action involve giving, advocating, and volunteering. Give Everyone needs a little help every now and then. That’s why the United Way of Rhode Island makes giving as easy as possible. You can provide your secure donation online where you can even schedule donations on your time. Plus, with no overhead, every penny you give goes right to the community. Advocate Word of mouth is still one of the best ways to spread the word. When you choose to advocate on behalf of the United Way of Rhode Island you’ll be raising awareness of legislative issues that are the top concern for Rhode Islanders. Volunteer Donating your time is a fun way to help others in your area. Several events occur throughout the year that you’re encouraged to help out with. In addition to their reoccurring events throughout the months, the United Way of Rhode Island also has several smaller projects. To learn more about these volunteer opportunities, stop by their Facebook page. Get Involved Today The United Way of Rhode Island makes it fun and easy to help those in your community. With plenty of volunteering opportunities you’ll find there’s no better time than the present to give back. Get involved with the United Way of Rhode Island today!

Best Doggy Daycares

Best Doggy Daycares near Southern Rhode Island

When embarking on a road trip or leaving the house every day for work, what do you do with man’s best friend? Crate train and hope for the best? Load up dog-friendly videos for your canine to catch up on? Better options exist for the love of your life. Schedule a visit to a doggy daycare facility near Southern Rhode Island where you can board your dog. Creature Comforts Animal Inn LLC Pets need TLC when they are far from home, and Creature Comforts Animal Inn will give your pooch that comfort seven days a week. Owners Fred and Kim Muller channel their love of animals toward caring for your pup. First-aid certified staff members know pet CPR and possess plenty of experience with dogs and many other beloved pets. Your dog will play in the spacious indoor/outdoor dog runs five times a day! Vets highly recommend this doggy daycare, and the owners live on the premises and can stay with your dog from dawn to dusk. Visit their Facebook page to see how to schedule a tour! Delmyra Country Club for Dogs & Cats Established in 1958, the Delmyra Country Club for Dogs & Cats provides a home away from home for your furry friend. Owners Scott and Ruth Gordon invite your pets to visit, and you can tour the kennel and daycare beforehand to see your dog’s vacation destination. Their facility houses 60 roomy suites for pups with radiant heated floors and central air conditioning. Enclosed areas for exercise mean your pet stays active and entertained. Comfy bedding and relaxing music lull your pet into slumber at night or for an afternoon snooze. Staff members update daily reports to ensure your pet is treated with love. Email their facility for more information. The Gnarly Dog Trust owner Jaclyn Beauregard to know what’s best for your very own gnarly friend. Since 2013, the Animal and Veterinary Sciences graduate keeps dogs active and happy at her doggy daycare. She understands that dogs need to be social with other dogs to feed their pack animal instincts. Staff members separate small pups and larger dogs into two different areas so that no hound ends up in the doghouse. For your dog’s convenience, Gnarly Dog provides food bowls and water buckets. No reservations required to drop off your dog for the day if they register with the daycare prior to the date. Check out their Instagram page for happy dog pics! Drop Off Your Dog at the Best Places to Board Your Dog in Southern Rhode Island These three doggy daycares get your dogs moving and give them the TLC they need when you embark on a getaway. If your dog doesn’t want to stay home alone, do doggy drop-off at the best places to board your dog in Southern Rhode Island.