Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 11th of June.
Good morning, Providence.
On June 10, 2025, Brown University hosted the 'Brown in Orbit' symposium where faculty and alumni recalled 60 years of planetary science breakthroughs.
Attendees highlighted work that advanced knowledge of the Moon+Mars and set the stage for future exploration+with upcoming missions.
On Monday night, the Providence Teachers Union approved a new contract with the school district that raises pay and keeps healthcare intact for three years—teachers will receive a 1% increase retroactive to January, 2.25% in November, 3.75% in September 2026, and 1.25% on the last day of school. School and union leaders said the deal shows a spirit of teamwork that will help support students and guide future plans.
At a May 21 oversight hearing, lawmakers heard a report from the Office of Child Advocate that listed 30 incidents of fatal or near fatal substance exposure among children in state care from 2019 to 2024 — the report offered 56 recommendations to improve coordination between agencies. Lawmakers stressed that the state must work together better to keep children safe.
On June 2, Providence city and state leaders gathered for a groundbreaking of Crossroads RI's Pine Street Apartments, a supportive housing project for residents with medical needs.
The project will convert a one-story building previously used as a homeless shelter using private funding—officials said it is a model for future developments.
After a fire on May 20 closed Matunuck Oyster Bar, state lawmakers proposed a bill to let the restaurant reopen outdoors in a parking lot until the end of June 2027 (restoring up to 50 of its 300 jobs) while Providence officials consider an outdoor setup at Waterplace Park (along the Woonasquatucket River). The proposals will be heard next Tuesday in their respective committees as Gov. McKee and local leaders promise further assistance while the fire investigation continues.
Providence will begin a new trash and recycling program on July 1 with new bins and fees for bulky items, white goods, and mattresses.
The city signed a five-year, $57.6 million contract with Waste Management (which includes new trucks and cameras to cut recycling mix-ups) to improve efficiency and sustainability.
North Providence baseball forced a deciding Game 3 today at Pontarelli Field after winning Game 2 by a 5 to 0 score, with Mike Ryan pitching six scoreless innings and driving in a run.
East Greenwich had won Game 1 by 12 to 8, and the final contest will begin at 4:30 p.m. as both teams vie for the Interscholastic League trophy.
Summer Concerts feat. Hungrytown
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Community Libraries of Providence: Rochambeau Library — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening of eclectic folk and rock music under the stars.
BabaluAye13 Live Performance
9 p.m. — Jet Set Restaurant & Lounge — Tickets available — Experience a one-of-a-kind live performance by BabaluAye13.
Dinos at Dusk
5-9 p.m. — Roger Williams Park Zoo — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of life-size animatronic dinosaurs while exploring zoo exhibits.
Jim Robitaille Live Performance
5-11 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — Admission often varies — Enjoy a night of smooth jazz at a top local venue.
USA Gymnastics Championships Single Day Pass
7:30-10:30 a.m. — Amica Mutual Pavilion — Ticket required for wristband — Experience top-tier gymnastics action in a vibrant local setting.
Blues For An Alabama Sky (Sensory Friendly)
3:30-11:30 p.m. — Trinity Repertory Company — Ticket prices vary — Experience a sensory-friendly performance of a touching story set against a backdrop of blues music.
USA Gymnastics Championships Thursday Arena Sessions
1:30-5:30 p.m. — Amica Mutual Pavilion — All session pass for both venues — Watch top gymnasts compete at the USA Gymnastics Championships.
Professor Roots Reggae Dance Party
6-8:30 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $10 — Experience a lively evening of ska, rock steady, and reggae from a local band.
Sarah Millican: Late Bloomer
7-9 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of laughter with Sarah Millican as she shares her journey from quiet child to comedic performer.
Northern Sky Art Session
5-7:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Complimentary beverage included — Engage your creativity with a guided art session while enjoying a drink.
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