Good morning, Providence.

Victor Colebut, a Pawtucket man, was sentenced to life in prison yesterday by Providence Superior Court for strangling his girlfriend in 2020; his conviction includes domestic second-degree murder, domestic assault, and a no contact order violation.

Connecticut State Police detained a male at a Madison rest area on Interstate 95 at 1:57 a.m. Thursday following a Providence police BOLO for a reported gunpoint kidnapping—authorities seized a firearm from the vehicle linked to the incident.

Cumberland police warned parents today about a TikTok trend called the Chromebook challenge that encourages students to take apart school-issued Chromebooks—this risky action can lead to fires, electrical shock, school discipline and expensive replacements.

Bravo announced on Instagram that Real Housewives of Rhode Island will roll out soon as part of new TV shows ordered for 2025.

The series—set along the shores of the Ocean State—will follow Rhode Islanders with deep family ties, though no release date or cast details have been shared.

Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green visited Washington, D.C. as part of a U.S. Senate forum hosted by Senator Patty Murray to discuss cuts to education funding in local schools.

She urged federal leaders to preserve Title I and nutrition funds—supporting 15 percent of the state’s education budget—since low-income students rely on these resources.

Providence Community Health Centers announced on May 8 that over 70 administrative, support and clinical staff were laid off to save $5 million this year due to rising costs and reduced 340B funding.

CEO Merrill Thomas said the nonprofit will offer severance and job referrals—steps taken as the center struggles with a 30% cost increase and low Medicaid reimbursements.

Shen Yun Performing Arts - Providence

1:30-3 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the magical beauty of ancient Chinese culture through stunning dance and music.

Food House Concert in Providence

7:00-11:55 PM — Fete Music Hall — ADV $20 • DOS $25 18+ — Experience vibrant performances from Food House and Folie in a lively atmosphere.

Lake Street Dive Concert

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Starting at $70 — Experience a high-energy night filled with outstanding tunes from Lake Street Dive.

Zumba with Kiki

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Roger Williams Park Gateway Center — Registration required — Get moving with Kiki in a high-intensity Zumba class set in a beautiful park environment.

Chair Yoga Classes

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Community Libraries of Providence: Mount Pleasant Library — Registration required — Enjoy the benefits of yoga with supportive chair postures and a certified instructor.

Youth Makerspace Exploration

3:30-5:30 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Explore innovative makerspace technology like sewing machines and 3D printers in a creative environment.

Espresso Martini Painting Night

7-9:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — RSVP required — Enjoy a creative night with a complimentary drink and craft your own masterpiece.

Writing on Westminster

2-4 p.m. — Symposium Books — Free entry — Enjoy an outdoor write-in with fellow creatives at a local bookstore with coffee and pastries on offer.

Puzzical Chairs & Pie with Live Music by Skyjelly

1-3 p.m. — 195 District Park — Free entry — Engage in a fun, intergenerational puzzle challenge accompanied by live music and enjoy a festive atmosphere.

Create Your City

4-5 p.m. — Community Libraries of Providence: Smith Hill Library — Free — Explore urban planning through activities like public art, tree planting, and city design.