Below is a link to an article by David Brussat which examines David Cicilline's attempt to "brand" Providence.  When I found out that David Cicilline decided to spend $100,000 on this dubious project, I was taken aback by both the amount of money spent, and the decision to use an out of state firm.  I don't think branding the city was necessary, but if it is going to be done, there are better ways to find ideas for the "Creative Capital." 

     Since Providence's creativity is being emphasized, why not have a contest for students at colleges and universities in Providence?  I'm sure students at the Rhode Island School of Design, Brown, Rhode Island College, Johnson and Wales, or Providence College could have come up with a better solution for less money.  A $1,000 prize and a press release probably would have been more effective and shown that the Mayor truly believes in Providence's creativity.  Of course, he's spending other people's money, so what does he care.


http://www.projo.com/opinion/columnists/content/CL_brussat9_04-09-09_ILDUS01_v22.3e66a80.html