Visions are clear; applications awaited.(the future for business in Providence)(Panel Discussion)

Is there a vision in place - a blueprint, so to speak - for long-term prosperity in Rhode Is land?

The answer from a mix of leaders from Rhode Island's business, education and arts communities brought together by the Providence Business News, is yes. And in fact, there are many visions. But whether the tools are in place whether the resources, leadership and cooperative support exist - to turn even the most sound blueprint into reality was the subject of a lively discussion last Thursday night (May 24) on WSBE Channel 36.

The discussion served as the focus of the "Rhode Island Summit: Business Vision for Rhode Island," hosted by the Providence Business News and broadcast live. Citizens Bank sponsored the event.

The panel was com posed of Leonard Lardaro, professor of economics at the University of Rhode Island; Donna Cupelo, president of Verizon-Rhode Island; Diana Lam, Providence School Superintendent; Gary S. Ezovski, president of Lincoln Environmental and Oskar Eustis, artistic director at Trinity Rep.

Lardaro cautioned that Rhode Island is missing the opportunity …