When The DMB Project, a local Dave Matthews cover band, takes the stage for Smithfield’s Independence Day Celebration on July 1, you’ll likely find Smithfield Town Manager Randy Rossi jamming out on the dance floor. A self-proclaimed “huge” Dave Matthews fan, Rossi credits Smithfield’s Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Paul McGinn for suggesting the popular local tribute band. It’s just one of the many festive offerings for the town’s annual Independence Day Celebration.
Rossi likens his role to chief administrator of Smithfield, but every Independence Day he takes on the role of CFO, chief fun officer, for the town. For the last nine years, Rossi and his team have partnered with Bryant University, his alma mater, to throw an epic family-friendly fireworks party for all to enjoy.
This year, more than 20 food trucks from Ocean State Food Trucks will be on hand to provide a variety of bites. Rossi’s eyes expand when he recalls his favorite nosh from last year: mini pancakes with ice cream topped with brownies and Oreos. While the kids (both little and big) run off their sugar high on the expansive field, mom and dad can kick back and enjoy an adult beverage from the beer and wine truck. The fireworks display, by Pyrotecnico, kicks off at 9 p.m. with DJ Jim from Celebrations Entertainment providing a sonic backdrop of patriotic tunes.
The town’s Independence Day Celebration partnership with Bryant began in 2014, with the fireworks display happening on campus. COVID-19 prompted the switch to Deerfield Park and Bryant continued to partner by covering the cost of the fireworks display. This year, Bryant’s expanding its presence with a T-shirt coloring station for kids.
The Independence Day Celebration is just one way “Bryant infuses itself into the community,” says Rossi. “I don’t think a lot of people see the impact Bryant has. Unless you have a kid playing soccer or lacrosse, you don’t see Bryant’s Division I players on the field teaching 4- and 5-year-olds how to play. I don’t think folks realize Bryant students are involved in the neighborhood cleanups.”
Rossi sees the relationship between the town and Bryant as symbiotic. The university works with the local kids in schools and at sporting events and serves as a talent feeder for local businesses like Navigant, Neighborhood Health Group, Amica, and Fidelity. With Bryant’s location in the heart of Smithfield’s economic growth district, Rossi sees the interaction between the students and the business community as dynamic. “Everything kind of feeds off each other,” he says.
The Independence Day weekend is about celebrating the Smithfield community and, without a doubt, it’s Rossi’s favorite holiday. “The field is edge-to-edge with people, some throwing a frisbee or kicking a soccer ball, or just relaxing on a blanket with a beer. It’s amazing to see the families coming together, out in the fresh air, and having a good time.”
Smithfield’s Independence Day Celebration is on Saturday, July 1 (rain date July 9), from 4 p.m. until dark at Deerfield Park, Lisa Ann Circle, Greenville. Click here to visit the Facebook event page.
