Good morning, Providence.

World War II veteran Robert Gray celebrated his 100th birthday in Lincoln on May 24—local officials including Senator Jack Reed, Rep. Gabe Amo, and Town Administrator Philip Gould joined the event.

The veteran, a Purple Heart recipient who served in notable battles, also received a signed football from Ty Law as a birthday surprise.

Retailers such as Allbirds, Merrell, HeyDude, and Tecovas are offering Memorial Day shoe sales with discounts on sneakers, sandals, boots, and flats.

Tariffs are expected to drive prices up by 15% this summer—Providence shoppers may want to act quickly to secure a deal.

Police are investigating a shooting at Galego Court in Pawtucket on May 24 — officers responded around 10:30 p.m. and transported a man with a non-life-threatening injury to the hospital.

Olympian Allyson Felix spoke at Brown’s Baccalaureate ceremony on May 23, urging the Class of 2025 to follow their own values and find purpose in every challenge they face.

The service honored many faith traditions and celebrated retiring chaplain Janet M. Cooper Nelson for her 35 years of service — a moment that inspired the community.

URI professors warned that free teaching and research are vital for democracy as the U.S. score on the Academic Freedom Index dropped from 0.91 to 0.68, and over 600 university presidents defended the right to learn and teach without interference—viewing academic freedom as key to strong education and innovation. They stressed that protecting this freedom is essential to maintaining open campuses and quality research.

On May 24th, the state office signed agreements with three licensed real estate brokers for misrepresenting their roles and for posting false advertising; brokers Fitzpatrick, Bernadyn, and Tarlton admitted their mistakes and each agreed to pay a $1,000 fee.

The office said if they do not follow the agreements, it will take further actions + impose more penalties.

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.

The Avett Brothers Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energy of The Avett Brothers with a blend of new hits and classic favorites.

Live Comedy Taping with Pete Correale

7-11 p.m. — Comedy Connection — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of side-splitting humor as Pete taps into the laughter for his next special.