Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 31st of July.
Good morning, Providence.
💼 Business
Striking Butler Hospital union workers voted 98 percent to reject the hospital’s final offer for a new contract that would have provided a starting wage of $18 an hour for some positions.
The workers have been on strike since May 15—seeking better wages, healthcare, and workplace safety measures.
🎭 Culture
Film crews shot M. Night Shyamalan’s movie Remain at Dexter Training Ground on July 30 for scenes filmed inside a cloister near Cranston Street Armory.
The garden set (featuring actor Jake Gyllenhaal) was built to support the film’s production design.
🎓 Education
The EEOC determined that Providence Public School Department violated Title VII by running a loan forgiveness program—offering up to $25,000 only to new non-White teachers—that excluded White applicants since 2021.
The agency now invites the department to join conciliation discussions to address the unlawful employment practice.
🏛️ Government
On July 30, Brown University reached a voluntary agreement with the federal government to restore its research funding and resolve three nondiscrimination compliance reviews.
The deal includes a commitment of $50 million in grants over 10 years to support local workforce development and protects academic freedom by confirming the government will not control its curriculum — keeping Brown’s teaching mission free from intrusion.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F.
Neronha joined 21 attorneys general and one governor in a lawsuit filed on May 5 in Massachusetts that challenges a federal law clause blocking Medicaid funds from Planned Parenthood health centers—lawyers say the rule may cut essential care and raise Medicaid costs over time.
🏥 Health
Rhode Island Blood Center launched its 'Pint for a Pint' campaign on Monday, July 28 to help boost a critically low supply of blood—donors 21 and older who give a pint by Aug.
31 will receive a voucher for a free pint at one of 13 local breweries, though vouchers cannot be used on the day of donation. The campaign targets scarce O-negative and O-positive blood needed for emergencies and routine treatments.
📰 Real Estate
The median price for a single-family home hit $520,000 in June while multifamily homes reached $599,000, and listings rose sharply by 62% from last year—landlords cite rising costs from regulations and taxes as a factor.
Demand continues to be strong even as supply stays low, putting pressure on local buyers.
🏈 Sports
Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee met with an investor who is interested in buying the Connecticut Sun to possibly move the team from Mohegan Sun Arena to Providence.
City officials are checking if Amica Mutual Pavilion, which already hosts the Friars and Bruins, can meet the team's practice facility needs — a key factor in the decision.
🎉 Providence Events
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Reckoners Concert with Dread Buffalo
7-10 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $20 adv, $25 day of — Experience a night of soulful rock 'n' roll with Boston supergroup Reckoners and special guests Dread Buffalo.
Museums on Us by Bank of America
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — RISD Museum — Free entry for cardholders — Access over 225 museums nationwide with your Bank of America card.
Providence Flea
11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — 195 District Park — Free entry — Explore local vintage finds and handmade goods in a vibrant community market setting.
Elegant Peacock Glass Art Class
1-3:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Includes complimentary beverage — Create your own unique glass art masterpiece in a fun atmosphere.
Providence Flea Market
11 AM – 3 PM — 195 District Park — Free entry — Explore local vintage goods, artisan crafts, and delicious food amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.
Outdoor Bubble Play
2:00 – 2:30 PM — Wanskuck Library — Free — Enjoy bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and fun outdoor activities for toddlers in a safe environment.
Arts and Crafts at Capitol Ridge
3:30-4:30 p.m. — Capitol Ridge at Providence — Free entry — Monthly arts and crafts session with residents for a creative community experience.
Wee-One Wednesdays at RWP Botanical Center
9-10 a.m. — Roger Williams Park Botanical Center — Registration required — Bring your preschooler for nature-themed activities, crafts, and fun in the gardens.
Board Games Afterschool Activities
3-5 p.m. — Rochambeau Library — Free entry — Stop by to play a variety of board games and make new friends.
Live Music with Ron Giorgio
6:30-9:30 p.m. — Luigi's Restaurant & Gourmet Express — Cost varies — Experience Ron's powerhouse voice while enjoying a summer menu under the stars.
🏠 Providence Real Estate
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💼 Providence Job Board
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📣 Providence Announcements
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