A scrapyard in South Providence was shut down last month after two recent fires. This week a judge said it could reopen, despite opposition from state officials and locals who say the facility poses health risks to an already over-polluted neighborhood. And Monday is Victory Day here in Rhode Island, commemorating the surrender of Japan in August of 1945 that led to the end of World War II. We hear from a Newport resident and Japanese internment camp survivor who says it’s time to reconsider the holiday. Also, we hear about a documentary in the making focused on a neighborhood basketball league that transcended racial and class divides during the 1960s and 70s. That and more on this week’s show.
victory day
Posted inArticle, Arts And Culture
Is it time to rename Victory Day?
Aug. 14 marks the 77th anniversary of President Harry Truman’s announcement of the surrender of Japan to the Allied forces, effectively ending World War II in the United States. But Rhode Island is the only state that officially recognizes the anniversary with a state holiday, observed annually as Victory Day, on the second Monday in August. It’s controversial, though, and nearly 80 years later, some say it’s time to redefine the day.
Posted inArticle, Arts And Culture
97-year-old Rhode Island vet reflects on Victory Day and his time in the Pacific
Today is Victory Day in Rhode Island, which commemorates the end of World War 2. Reporter Joe Tasca spent the afternoon in Wickford speaking with 97-year-old George Silva, a U.S. Navy veteran who served on a cruiser in the Pacific Theater. Silva talks about his memories of the war and the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Posted inArticle, Politics
Navy Veteran: I’m Open To Changing Victory Day
A younger veteran who is now running for political office says he understands criticism of Victory Day, a state holiday marking the day Japan surrendered during World War II.
