Good Day
Providence
Friday, May 8th, 2026
Good morning, Providence. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of May.
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Climate models from NOAA & the World Meteorological Organization indicate a 62% chance El Niño conditions will start this summer, a development that could bring warmer, more humid weather to Providence & increase storm activity in New England from late summer through early winter. The Boston Globe
- ➤ Rhode Island’s roadkill permit program has led to nearly 100 submissions in its first year, giving wildlife officials data to track local deer, turkeys, and small animals. Wildlife biologists say the program eases state employee duties & informs plans to improve highway safety. 10 WJAR
- ➤ A sewage spill from a ruptured pipe in East Providence forced the closure of a 1900 acre shellfishing area on the lower Providence River Monday. Officials say water tests will begin in seven days and quahoggers cannot return until at least May 18. The Boston Globe
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Pending legislation aims to remove the rule that prevents restaurants from automatically providing plastic straws (currently offered only upon request). If approved, local eateries may soon serve straws by default. The Providence Journal
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Rhode Island Department of Health said an overdose spike alert was issued May 6 after 61 people received emergency care for non-fatal overdoses, a number above the usual 46, to connect residents with treatment and prevention resources. 10 WJAR
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Boston-based Audubon Capital Partners bought the Chestnut Commons and 95 Lofts buildings in January, and Providence officials have accused the company of illegally using an algorithm to set rent rates on properties located on Chestnut, Friendship and Claverick streets. The Providence Journal
- ➤ Former mayor Joe Paolino was among a group that secured judicial approval to buy the struggling Providence Place Mall for $133 million after its year-and-a-half receivership. The investors plan to boost safety, add stores such as Costco, and improve parking to attract more shoppers. The Boston Globe
- ➤ A North Smithfield landmark known as the Milk Can is on sale for about $7.5 million, including 5.5 acres and two additional buildings (EPA-approved after remediation) and could be repurposed as a restaurant or coffee shop pending approvals. The Boston Globe
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Thursday's high school baseball games brought close finishes as St. Raphael edged Westerly 2 to 1 at Cimalore Field and teams across Rhode Island recorded wins and losses in tight matchups (North Providence and Cranston East shined) with more games scheduled this week. The Providence Journal
- ➤ Barrington boys volleyball beat North Kingstown on Wednesday, May 6 with a 25-20, 25-22, 15-25, 25-23 win, showing renewed confidence after last season's struggles as they prepare for playoffs and Donovan Park led with 21 kills while the team holds the No. 6 spot in RPI standings. The Providence Journal
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Kevin Devine Live Performance
5-10 p.m. — What Cheer Tavern — 21+ only — Experience an evening of live music with Kevin Devine and special guest Julie Rhodes under the stars.
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Mother's Day Singer-Songwriter Night
7-11 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $11.33 — Celebrate Mother's Day with an exciting lineup of talented singer-songwriters.
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Laser Engraving Workshop
5-7 p.m. — Knight Memorial Library — Email for cost — Utilize the Glowforge laser cutter to engrave your design.
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Read More, Learn More!
2:30-5:30 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Unlock the magic inside every story with engaging reading sessions led by Ms. Carol.
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Community Fridge Launch Event
4-5 p.m. — Wanskuck Library — Free entry — Discover the new Community Fridge offering free produce and meals for all ages along with refreshments and guest speakers.
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Gabe Lee Live Performance
7-10 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $18.46 — Experience the genre-bending storytelling of musician Gabe Lee as he captivates with his unique sound.
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Modern Calligraphy Workshop for Beginners
6:30-8:00 p.m. — Medici — Pricing not specified — Discover the art of beautiful lettering in a creative environment perfect for beginners.
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The Earl Knightwood Band Live at STRINGS Bar & Grill
3:15-7:15 p.m. — Strings Bar & Grill — Enjoy a lively performance by The Earl Knightwood Band while savoring Chef Allen Forte's culinary delights.
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Providence Speed Dating for Singles in Their 40s and 50s
2-4 p.m. — Cool Pickle Restaurant & Bar — Check ticket prices online — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a fun, pressure-free setting.
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The Lion King
7 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of the Serengeti and the Tony Award-winning storytelling of Disney’s The Lion King.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.
~ Edgar Degas
About Good Day Providence
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