Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of July.
Good morning, Providence.
🏘️ Community
Volunteers stuffed 15,000 backpacks with over 80,000 school supplies at Sodexo in Providence on Friday, July 17 during the 27th annual back to school celebration.
Families can pick up their backpacks for free at 12 distribution sites on Aug. 15.
Coast Guard crews rescued a 66-foot yacht that was taking on water near Sakonnet Lighthouse on Friday, July 17.
They drained the engine room and towed the boat to safety + all four aboard were uninjured.
Cranston councilman Frank Ritz said the pool rental app Swimply is fueling late-night parties that disturb neighbors at properties hosting up to 100 guests.
Ritz will meet with the app founder on Thursday to discuss stricter enforcement and new policies + better quiet hours.
💼 Business
Providence’s oldest brewpub, Union Station Brewery, will permanently close its doors tomorrow after a 33-year run at 36 Exchange Terrace.
It was closed for a private event Friday (7–10 p.m.) and the closure was announced via social media.
🎭 Culture
The Real Housewives of Rhode Island began filming Season 2 this summer, with cast members seen at Scarborough Beach, Circe Prime Steakhouse, Wickford on the Water, and Warwick Mall.
Bravo has yet to confirm the lineup as filming continues.
JWU Culinary Arts Museum gives visitors a chance to explore a retro diner plus artifacts from White House history and other culinary treasures that spotlight local food culture.
The exhibit is on the JWU campus and invites locals to discover Rhode Island's culinary legacy.
🎓 Education
Providence Public Schools show progress after state intervention, according to a new Rhode Island Department of Education report.
The report details improved academic performance, higher graduation rates, and more facility investments while it advises continued efforts to address teacher shortages and boost community involvement.
High school students in the inaugural Brown Collegiate Scholars Program began their residential experience this summer on campus, balancing college-readiness classes and social activities to build independence and academic skills — excursions like a visit to the Marble House help boost their confidence.
🏥 Health
Rhode Island extended the Eat Well, Be Well pilot program to support over 100,000 households with $10M in benefits, announced Thursday morning at the State House.
The program, offered at Walmart, Stop and Shop, and a local market (West African Superstore), helps families cope with rising grocery prices.
🏈 Sports
Providence basketball players hosted a free youth clinic at Fargnoli Park on Friday, July 17, in partnership with the city’s Recreation Department, where about 200 children practiced offensive and defensive drills + teamwork.
The event showcased local talent and energized youth sports.
🎉 Providence Events
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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.
Technology Help at the Library
1-2 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Get assistance with tech skills and job applications in a bilingual setting.
🏠 Providence Real Estate
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