Good morning, Providence.

Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence is bringing back sensory friendly dinosaur sessions designed for families with sensory processing differences.

The sessions run from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. and tickets must be purchased online ahead of time.

Columnist Robert Whitcomb said modern technology—like car alerts and Google Maps—is reshaping daily life and recalled a mix-up of Frost’s poem at a college reunion.

He also criticized Alaska Sen. Murkowski’s vote on a tax bill and discussed California housing reforms and plans for city-run grocery stores on East Side Providence + warned that delays in transit parts could affect the community.

Providence Restaurant Weeks runs until July 19 and offers fixed-price menus from 66 local restaurants, including specials at James Beard-winning venues and new options at Track 15’s food hall — diners should book early as weekend deals may vary.

Sheida Soleimani, executive director of Congress of the Birds, is expanding her wildlife clinic in Glocester to care for injured and sick birds.

She relies on private donations—volunteers help as the new facility prepares to offer behind-the-scenes tours.

Today, a federal judge halted the deportation of a Venezuelan man in Rhode Island while a New Bedford man seeks legal action after ICE agents allegedly broke into his car—state officials, including Attorney General Peter Noronha, are challenging federal immigration enforcement practices.

Rhode Island courts are experiencing delays as the Division of Sheriffs, now at its highest staffing level since 2021 (147 officers from a full complement of 179), remains 30 officers short to secure courthouse operations.

The Rhode Island Bar Association (6,500 members) has warned that the staffing gap poses safety risks and urged continued recruitment efforts under new chief Paul Martinelli.

Rhode Island FC drew 1-1 with Birmingham Legion FC on July 5 before a record crowd of 10,734 fans at Centreville Bank Stadium—fireworks lit up the night during the Fourth of July weekend.

The game featured goals by Ronaldo Dumas and Noah Fuson, and the team will face Indy Eleven on July 12.

Providence Art Club New Exhibitions

2-4 p.m. — Providence Art Club — Free entry — Explore vibrant new art exhibitions featuring local artists showcasing their creative journeys.

Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park

5:00-8:30 p.m. — Carousel Village — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant evening filled with local food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Live Music Night: Edict, Tarcil, Edjinn, Rose Lane, Voluntary Victim

5:30-11:30 p.m. — Alchemy — $15 tickets — Enjoy a night of energetic performances from local bands in a vibrant venue.

Holy Roller at The Parlour

8 PM – 12 AM — The Parlour Providence — $19.27 — Experience the energetic southern rock sound of Holy Roller as they take the stage.

Evening Sky Jazz Concert

7 PM – 1 AM — Red Door — Admission varies — Experience the soulful sounds of a Jazz/Roots Quartet featuring talented musicians.

Weekly Woonasquatucket River Greenway Walk

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Riverside Park — Free entry — Enjoy a community-friendly walk along the scenic river greenway while learning about local flora, fauna, and history.

Storytime Sessions

11 a.m. — Books On the Square — Free entry — Enjoy delightful tales during storytime for children at a cozy local bookstore.

Jessie's Girl Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket purchase supports a cause — Experience live music while contributing to A Just Harvest.

Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park

5:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Carousel Village — Free entry — Savor a variety of local food trucks while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities.

Lumanyano Mzi Trio Live Concert

6-8 p.m. — Roger Williams Park Boat House Lawn — Free entry — Celebrate the sounds of Africa with the award-winning Lumanyano Mzi Trio and opener Chris Monti.