Mayor's message: Investors finding Warwick favorable

Local, state, and federal officials recently gathered to celebrate the success of a Warwick-based company, FarSounder, and the vision of its president and CEO, Cheryl Zimmerman, who is the first Rhode Island small business owners to win the national Tibbett's Award. She was recognized at both a ceremony in Washington, D.C., and at the Rhode Island event for the company's ongoing commitment to developing innovative, cutting-edge technology that has put them at the forefront of real-time 3D sonar system development in the marine industry. The company was only one of 32 to be honored with the prestigious award, which is bestowed on small businesses and individuals who best represent the Small Business Innovation Research or Small Business Technology Transfer programs of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Those at the local event noted not only FarSounder's expertise and innovation in developing technology to improve vessel safety and enhance the security of our waterways, but the jobs it has created as well. The company also notes the environmental benefit of their systems, which can reduce the occurrence of devastating events like reef groundings, whale strikes, and oil spills, helping to protect the environment and marine life alike. In a statement issued by FarSounder when the award was announced, Zimmerman said they were "pleased to see that the federal government has recognized how unique and how important our technology is. Forward Looking Sonar is an important tool for 21st Century by providing ship operators what is under the water in front of them - before they run aground as well as offering protection from underwater threats." It's particularly fitting that FarSounder, which has been in operation since 2001, is located in the Ocean State, and I am proud to recognize a Warwick-based company for its success, innovation, and earning Rhode Island's first Tibbett Award. We look forward to working with them to help them to continue to grow and prosper here in our community. Scott Avedisian is the mayor of Warwick and the chairman of the RIPTA board of directors.