In this episode of Living the Good Life, Deb Morais and Steve Kass move seamlessly between contrasting worlds: the global tragedy unfolding in Gaza, where access to food and humanitarian aid is being severely limited, and the vibrant, growing culinary scene in Rhode Island, exemplified by Providence Restaurant Week. Deb and Steve tackle how international conflict is being simplified in media narratives, particularly the food blockade in Gaza and how actions taken by Israel - justified as security measures - inevitably impact civilians.

Shift gears, and the mood lightens into a celebration of Rhode Island’s Restaurant Week, the influence of Johnson & Wales alumni on local hospitality, and the role of dining promotions in supporting small business. They also touch on regional economic concerns - rising grocery costs, tariffs, and the challenges of retaining talented chefs in a competitive industry.

Key Takeaways

• Media nuance matters: Coverage of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis often lacks context around the complex motives, including concerns over armed groups intercepting supplies. This nuance is essential for understanding the broader conflict dynamics.
• Restaurant Week’s impact: Statewide dining promotions like Providence Restaurant Week not only offer consumer value but also help sustain local restaurants and promote Rhode Island’s culinary reputation.
• Broader community growth: Developments like the new Tidewater Landing stadium project show how mixed-use planning - from sports to restaurants and housing - can drive local tax revenue and revitalization.
• Education & future workforce: Concerns are raised about public education in Rhode Island and student retention, with optimism about AI‑enhanced tools like those from Khan Academy bridging gaps in learning and preparing graduates - like their granddaughter heading to veterinary school - for competitive futures.