Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of July.
Good morning, Providence.
Cranston police are increasing security for St. Mary's Feast, a five-day celebration in Knightsville, by enforcing early wrap-up of live music (11 p.m.) and outdoor bar service (11:30 p.m.).
Officials expect massive crowds and plan to use drones to monitor the event through Sunday.
Brown University junior Lachlan Kirby began his 3,000-mile cycling journey from St. Augustine on May 21, volunteering with local nonprofits while building community care across the South.
He is now in Eagle Pass (Texas) and will leave mid-July for his next volunteer placement before concluding in San Diego.
After safety inspections and a rebuild following a fatal staircase collapse at the Portuguese American Citizens Club (which killed a 15-year-old), town leaders approved licenses for the club to host Saint Anthony's Feast in Portsmouth, setting up one of the town's biggest events amid continued family concerns.
Providence radio hosts Paul and Al, whose 36-year show (a local favorite) was cut amid iHeartMedia's restructuring, will host a retirement party at Track 15 in August and say goodbye on Sept.
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Caught in Providence got a Daytime Emmy nod for outstanding legal show & it honors the late Judge Caprio, known for his kind and humorous approach in the courtroom.
The awards will be given Oct. 30 at the Hollywood Palladium.
Cranston's Budlong Aquatic Center opened Wednesday morning after being closed since 2020 — officials said delays and change orders raised its cost near $5.1 million, though federal ARPA and HUD funds helped keep spending under the $5.3 million budget.
Rhode Island officials announced Eat Well, Be Well SNAP program will continue after additional state and local support.
The program gives SNAP recipients a 50-cent reimbursement on every dollar spent on fresh produce at participating grocery stores & markets and has helped over 140,000 residents since 2024.
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is causing hazy yellow skies and unhealthy air quality in parts of New England including Providence today.
Health officials advise checking the Air Quality Index and reducing outdoor activity for sensitive groups — conditions may improve once winds shift later this week.
Rhode Island officials reported that 25 animals have tested positive for rabies in 2026, with 14 cases in raccoons and 7 in bats.
They urge residents to avoid contact with wild animals + vaccinate pets to reduce exposure risks.
Rhode Island health officials reported three cyclosporiasis cases this year (previous counts were similar) amid a multi-state spike linked to produce, and experts advise washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly to reduce risks.
Researchers from Brown University and U.T.
Southwestern uncovered how aKG (a key metabolite produced by GPT2) signals the nucleus to control gene activity during brain development. Mouse studies showed that aKG supplements improved DNA structure in GPT2 deficiency, and further preclinical studies will test potential treatments.
This summer, visitors can choose from three unique Airbnbs in Rhode Island.
Options include a renovated lighthouse in Bristol offering coastal views (with indoor ladders available), a luxurious farm suite above a lavender field in South Kingstown, and a cozy treehouse retreat near downtown Wakefield.
Providence native Demetrius 'Boo Boo' Andrade will return to boxing on Friday, July 24 at Mohegan Sun Arena against Brazilian fighter Douglas Ataide.
Returning after a nearly three-year hiatus due to family tragedy & loss, the former Olympian aims for a career resurgence.
Northeast Traffic Live Concert
Evening — Uptown Theater — Tickets available — Experience a night of original music with Northeast Traffic, Atticus Allen, and Dust Ruffles.
Puerto Rican Bay Fest
All day — India Point Park — Free entry — Celebrate Puerto Rican culture with live music, delicious food, and family-friendly fun.
Knit Fish Pouch Workshop
6-8 p.m. — Creative Reuse Center of Rhode Island — Materials provided — Create a charming Rybka pouch from scrap yarn and learn fun knitting techniques.
Monthly Reading Club
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Mount Pleasant Library — Free entry — Engage in monthly discussions about literature that highlights diverse voices and experiences.
A Day in the Life Concert
5-7 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Enjoy the smooth sounds of the R&B Preservation Hall Band in a community-friendly setting.
Summer Sacred Concert
7:00 – 11:59 PM — Fete Music Hall — $15 ADV & DOS — Experience a vibrant night of music featuring Jesse Neptune and OzTheKid.
Wayne Hancock with The Soapbox Saints and King Sickabilly
5-8 p.m. — Alchemy — Tickets available — Experience a night of rockabilly and country fusion with Wayne 'The Train' Hancock and his friends.
Rhode Home Rescue Adoption Event
10 AM – 12 PM — Rumford Pet — Adoption fees apply — Meet some amazing dogs looking for their forever homes.
Ocean State Brewers Fest 2026
2-5:30 p.m. — Bristol Golf Park — Tickets available — Celebrate Rhode Island's craft beer at this unique golf-inspired festival!
Read More, Learn More!
2:30-5:30 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Discover the magic of storytelling with Mrs. Carol every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
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