Good morning, Providence.

Lincoln police arrested Brenda Gonzalez and Wilfredo Urbina Delgado on felony child neglect charges after they left two children (ages 7 and 11) unsupervised in a vehicle while gambling at Bally's Casino on May 23; police said the children were placed with a family member as Delgado was taken to a correctional facility and Gonzalez was released on personal recognizance bail.

Brown University awarded honorary doctorates on May 25 at its 257th Commencement ceremony to seven leaders in music, sports and art—recognizing achievements by Jon Batiste, Allyson Felix, Eileen Hayes, Suleika Jaouad, William Kentridge, Timothy Snyder and Kevin Young.

University president Christina H. Paxson presented the degrees in a ceremony that celebrated their contributions—demonstrating lasting impact on the community.

Brown University’s Commencement and Reunion Weekend 2025 celebrated graduation and alumni events with a master’s ceremony where Dr. Akashleena Mallick urged 1,037 graduates to use their achievements to challenge injustice—Allyson Felix delivered a Baccalaureate address that reminded the audience to learn from both triumphs and setbacks. Bruno’s Block Party on College Hill brought alumni together with local food, music and activities that highlighted the diverse traditions of the Brown community.

Brown is set to open a new admission welcome center in historic Manning Hall this fall to serve prospective students and families with digital storytelling and campus information.

The 2,400-square-foot renovation features accessibility upgrades and modern design elements — all managed by student ambassadors to enhance visitor engagement.

A Rhode Island lobsterman named Peter Broduer filed a federal lawsuit against the state and the Department of Environmental Management after a poorly maintained wharf in Galilee caused a marine bulkhead to shift—he claims the incident on May 25th, 2024 led to serious injuries and seeks over $250,000 in damages—and the case highlights safety issues in commercial lobstering.

Today is Memorial Day in RI and state, local, and federal offices are closed including the DMV, schools, banks, and postal services—trash collection is delayed by one day while many supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants remain open and RIPTA runs on a holiday schedule.

State transportation advocates and lawmakers pressed for extra funding on May 21 at the House Finance Committee as RIPTA faces a $33 million deficit starting July 1 and may cut routes and jobs.

RIPTA officials are still finalizing an efficiency study that was due last March—lawmakers are now considering seven funding bills to rescue the bus system.

U.S. News and World Report ranked Block Island as the fifth best underrated travel destination on May 12—citing its 17 miles of mostly undeveloped beaches—and the island, located 12 miles off the mainland, remains a favorite summer getaway for Rhode Islanders.

On May 24, Bishop Hendricken’s boys and North Kingstown’s girls won the Class A track team titles at Coventry High (noting that other schools also celebrated in different classes).

The state meet will be held on June 7 at Brown Stadium (with top contenders such as Kiley DeFusco expected to compete) as teams prepare for the challenge.

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.