Rhode Island 24/7

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Summary: Newport Daily News: Ocean State reflected in photo book
Review: SPARE CHANGE: Ocean State reflected in photo book
Column by Jim Gillis/Daily News staff

A picture book is worth a thousand words - or at least $24.95.

Out this week is something called "Rhode Island 24/7," a fine compilation of photos and captions of the Biggest Little State in the Union. You see great shots of the Pell Bridge and Rose Island (full disclosure: Daily News photographer Dave Hansen is a prominent player) and Beavertail.

And you see other classic Ocean State stuff like strippers at the Foxy Lady (sort of the Marble House of strip joints) and some counter guy lining up a row of New York System wieners on his arm, slapping on a sauce that can't possibly include a single nutrient.

And there are a few little facts that had heretofore escaped this lifelong Rhode Islander, such as the revelation that there are 105 Dunkin' Donuts shops within 10 miles of downtown Providence, or that the capital city has its own ukulele club. Tiny Tim worshipers unite!

Of course, no one connected to this tome asked people like me for their opinion. For good reason, too, given that my suggestions might be deemed a bit too far afield (though a gay bingo night in Cranston passed muster).

Nevertheless, a Volume 2 should certainly include the "political candidate" Love 22 entertaining tourists on Banister's Wharf, Wendy Collins strutting from a court hearing or Buddy minus the rug, passing the days at Fort Dix.

Bruce Sundlun taking aim at a raccoon would give new meaning to the term political crossfire. A portrait of money passing from one greasy palm to another would encompass our go-along-get-along tradition quite nicely.

And how did they miss the chance to capture gourmands rolling out of the Nordic Lodge after inhaling a 14,000-calorie meal at the modern-day Custy's? Or far-right Rhode Island Republicans (all 50 of them) chasing Linc Chafee and yelling, "Repent, ye sinner!"

The book is subtitled "Amazing Photographs of An Extraordinary State." But it should really say "Extraordinary State of Mind."