Good morning, Providence.

The Civis Foundation purchased the 1772 Shakespeare Head building on Meeting Street late last month for $750,000 to house the new Center for Reflective History, which will research the property’s ties to slavery and honor the lives of those once enslaved.

The nonprofit will use this year to plan public programs—such as walking tours and discussions—that bring the building's past into focus for the community.

Rhode Island comedian John Perrotta recounted his past struggles with addiction, homelessness, and bankruptcy—he said that comedy saved his life and inspired his new memoir How Comedy Saved My Life.

He now performs at local venues and mentors new comics, showing how resilience and humor can help rebuild a life.

If signed, a new R.I. law will ban cell phones in schools beginning Aug.

1, 2026, giving districts a full school year to develop policies. Several districts already enforce bans and teachers say the measure helps students focus — the law allows exceptions for medical needs and emergencies.

The Rhode Island House passed a $14.3 billion state budget on June 17 with a new tax on vacation homes over $1 million—dubbed the Taylor Swift tax—and nearly $120 million more than Gov. McKee’s proposal to boost funds for hospitals, primary care, and nursing homes before it moves to the Senate.

Rhode Island lawmakers unveiled a revised fiscal 2026 budget that sets up work groups to study potential federal tax changes and cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs—officials say the state may reconvene in October to adjust the plan.

The House voted Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. and the Senate will soon review the budget.

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.

Live Music Night with Purple Tide, Colonel Starr, and Fools Gold

7-11 p.m. — Alchemy — $15 — Experience a night of dynamic performances from local musicians in a vibrant setting.

Storytime Sessions

11 a.m. — Books On the Square — Free entry — Enjoy engaging storytime sessions suitable for children every Wednesday and Friday.

Washington Park Library Community Health Fair

3-5 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Explore resources on women's health, health insurance, and mental health while receiving a complimentary blood pressure screening.

Portland Hearts of Pine at Rhode Island FC

7-10 p.m. — Centreville Bank Stadium — Enjoy a thrilling soccer match featuring Portland Hearts of Pine battling Rhode Island FC.

Major League Rugby Championship

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Centreville Bank Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of professional rugby at Centreville Bank Stadium.

Maya de Vitry Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $17 — Experience the enchanting folk and indie rock sounds of Nashville-based artist Maya de Vitry.