Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of May.
Good morning, Providence.
After a fire damaged Matunuck Oyster Bar on May 20, over 300 workers lost their jobs.
The RI Hospitality Education Foundation started a relief fund— the only official source of financial support for the affected employees— and is accepting donations online or by mail.
Federal prosecutors in Providence indicted eight individuals for their roles in a transnational fraud and money laundering scheme targeting elderly citizens in the U.S. & Canada, with losses over $5 million reported and suspicions of up to $16 million laundered.
Rhode Island lawmakers and public access groups pressed for changes in the Access to Public Records Act on May 21—proposing lower fees, quicker access to police records, and steeper fines for non-compliance.
The bill also sets a fee waiver process and a 30-day deadline for releasing body camera footage from use-of-force incidents.
Providence Light The Night Water Lantern Festival
6-10 p.m. — Lincoln Woods State Park — Tickets on sale now — Experience a magical evening of hope and dreams illuminated by floating lanterns.
Blooming Boots Painting Session
1-3:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Complimentary beverage included — Unleash your creativity during a delightful art session with friends.
Barry Manilow's Final Concert in Providence
7-8:30 p.m. — Amica Mutual Pavilion — Ticket prices vary — Catch the iconic Barry Manilow in what he claims is his last performance in Providence.
Storytime at Books On the Square
11 a.m. — Books On the Square — Free entry — Enjoy whimsical stories in a cozy bookstore atmosphere every Wednesday and Friday.
Mystery Clown Theater 3000 presents: The Princess Bride
7-11:30 p.m. — AS220's Empire Street Complex — Tickets available — Enjoy a playful twist on the classic film with an entertaining live performance.
Storytime Sessions
11 a.m. — Books On the Square — Free entry — Enjoy delightful stories and engage children's imaginations during twice-weekly storytime sessions.
Yo-Yo Ma Concert in Providence
5:00 – 6:30 PM — Veterans Memorial Auditorium (The VETS) — Ticket prices vary — Experience the artistry and energy of the renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma with conductor Robert Spano.
Microwave Concert
7-11 p.m. — The Strand Ballroom — Ticket prices vary — Experience the ethereal sounds and dynamic guitar work of Atlanta’s Microwave live in concert.
Create Your City
4-5 p.m. — Community Libraries of Providence: Smith Hill Library — Free entry — Explore city planning through art, design, and interactive activities along with snacks and prizes.
COPRI Ports '25 Conference
6:30-9:30 p.m. — The WaterFire Arts Center — Registration required — Explore sustainable coastal, oceanic, and riverside development with industry professionals.
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