Good morning, Providence.

A Juneteenth ceremony will honor 52 Black Civil War veterans buried at North Burial Ground on Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m.—the event will include remarks, a reading of names, and a flower laying at the Prescott Post to remember their fight for freedom.

Rhode Island lawmakers will pass a bill that limits payday loans by capping rates at 36%—a move that will ban eight Advance America storefronts and aim to protect residents from debt cycles.

Opponents warn the change will reduce quick credit access and cost good-paying jobs.

The Rhode Island Senate Judiciary Committee approved an amended assault weapon bill that bans the sale of the deadliest guns — including AR-15s and AK-47s — by an 8–6 vote yesterday.

It will move to the Senate floor Friday when opponents may propose amendments.

The Rhode Island General Assembly session is ending after six months as lawmakers debate key issues like the state budget and the assault weapons ban—moves that have reached a critical stage in the final days.

A bill tracker online helps the public follow which proposals pass or fail—providing clear insights into the session’s fast-paced conclusion.

The Center for Health and Justice Transformation helps people coming out of jail by cutting more than $2.3 million in court debt and offering support through its Transitions Clinic plus learning sessions that share new ways to care for patients.

The group works with local partners to change old rules and make the justice system kinder for everyone.

Rhode Island’s only water park, Yawgoo Valley, will open its water attractions next weekend on Sunday, June 29—offering water slides, a kiddie pool, and a full-size pool along with food at Shredder’s Snack Shack and the Tiki Bar.

It will run daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weather permitting, and visitors are encouraged to buy tickets online to secure admission.

Evita Griskenas—Jessica Stevens, and Aliaksei Shostak will compete at the USA Gymnastics Championships in Providence, where more than 1,700 athletes from 39 states will participate.

Senior athletes have won 29 World Championship medals and 58 U.S. titles, and the event marks the return of the championships since 2016.

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.

Lighthouse Tour

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM — Edgewood Yacht Club — Check for ticket prices — Explore the historical island light station with guided tours on select days this summer.