Good morning, Providence.

Cranston police announced Friday they are continuing a criminal investigation into the disappearance of 44-year-old Linda DaLomba from her group home in Lincoln after surveillance refuted her caregiver’s false account—FBI personnel assisted in search efforts, interviews were conducted, and search warrants were executed at two residences.

Farm Fresh R.I. said USDA cuts will remove nearly $3 million from food programs that support about 100 local businesses supplying produce, meat, and fish to schools and food banks.

Leaders said the funding loss leaves farmers scrambling for alternative support—without it, food programs may face tougher challenges.

RIPEC’s study shows that home values in Rhode Island have grown by about 14% per year since 2022 — but taxes have only increased 2.5%, leaving less money to fund local schools.

Towns may face challenges funding education further as expired pandemic aid is not replaced — and state aid has not kept pace.

An internal audit by the City revealed that 16 nonunion employees received $427,575 in overtime from January 1, 2022 to February 28, with 11 employees improperly receiving $145,064—that amount includes payments dating back to former Mayor Elorza’s term and continuing under Mayor Smiley’s administration. The report recommended that the city immediately stop these overtime payments and recoup the funds as it faces a looming tax increase amid a financial crisis.

Today, No. 2 St John's with a 31 to 4 record will face No. 10 Arkansas, which has a 21 to 13 record, at 2:40 p.m. at Amica Mutual Pavilion in a Sweet 16 game between coaches John Calipari and Rick Pitino—who have met 23 times and where Calipari holds a 13 to 10 lead.

The matchup marks a new chapter in their rivalry as a Sweet 16 berth is at stake.

On Thursday, thousands of fans from North Carolina, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Indiana gathered at the Amica Mutual Pavilion for the first round of the NCAA Tournament—making Providence buzz with excitement.

Rick Pitino and his St. John’s team energized the crowd—boosting local pride in college basketball.

GFree Fest: A Gluten Free Food Festival

GFree Fest is an annual festival in Providence dedicated to gluten-free products and restaurants, offering attendees a day of tasting and shopping.

Zumba Fitness with Kiki

6:30-7:30 p.m. | Roger Williams Park Gateway Center | Registration required | Get moving with a high-intensity Zumba class led by Kiki in a lively setting.

Wee Wednesdays at Roger Williams Park Botanical Center

Weekly program for preschoolers aged 2-4 featuring nature-themed activities, crafts, and exploration at the Botanical Center.

JLC Live: New England Residential Construction Trade Event

JLC Live is a premier trade event for residential construction in New England, featuring hands-on clinics, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities for industry professionals.

The Wizard of Oz - Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — Stadium Theatre — Tickets from $29 — Experience the beloved classic with enchanting songs and unforgettable characters along the Yellow Brick Road.

Aziz Ansari Live Comedy Show

Award-winning comedian Aziz Ansari will perform live at the Providence Performing Arts Center, showcasing his acclaimed comedic talent and recent works.

Live Music Event Featuring Voices In Vain, Cooked, Edict, and Wichita Pete

The Hammer Collective presents a matinee live music event featuring local bands Voices In Vain, Cooked, Edict, and Wichita Pete & the Washboards at Alchemy in Providence, Rhode Island.

Date Night - Tuscany

6:00 – 8:30 PM — Chef Walters Cooking School — $ — Experience the flavors of Tuscany in a beautifully themed culinary evening.

The Tempest

7:30-11:30 p.m. | Trinity Repertory Company | Ticket prices vary | Experience a captivating performance of La Tempestad live from the iconic Trinity Repertory Company.

Big Spring Book Sale at Rochambeau Library

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Rochambeau Library — Free entry — Enjoy reading aloud and crafting activities for kids of all ages during April's Battle of the Books.