For Release: May 15, 1997

Contact: Larry Mouradjian 277-2632

Stephanie Powell 277-2771 ext. 4418

PROVIDENCE - Do you have an old photo of your family enjoying Roger Wheeler State Beach - the old Sand Hill Cove? If so, the RI Department of Environmental Management would love to have a copy of it.

"Sand Hill Cove - now the Roger Wheeler State Beach - has been a family favorite for generations," said Larry Mouradjian, Chief of DEM's Division of Parks and Recreation. "Just about everyone knows that beach - and many people go back summer after summer, first as a child, then as a parent, then as a grandparent. The water is sheltered, making it perfect for families with young children."

And people claim it as their own. "We're finishing some exciting major construction, and people call us about it," Mouradjian said. "One woman recently asked, 'What are you doing to MY beach?' That personal feeling of ownership comes from spending summer after summer there, and she's right - it is her beach, as it belongs to every Rhode Islander."

Mouradjian thinks people will be very pleased with what DEM is doing at the facility, and is planning a grand re-opening celebration in June. However, the beach will be open with limited facilities beginning Memorial Day Weekend.

He says DEM is looking for photos of people at Roger Wheeler for a historical record and plans to use some of them in a display at the facility. Please attach information about your photo such as when it was taken, names of identifiable people, and send it to DEM's Division of Parks and Recreation, 2321 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, RI 02919. Be sure to enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you would like your photo returned.