Good Day
Providence
Saturday, August 9th, 2025
Good morning, Providence. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 9th of August.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ North Providence man Jamal Mansaray pleaded guilty on April 29 to bank fraud conspiracy, bank fraud, aggravated identity theft and illegal firearm possession, and was sentenced on August 8 to 110 months in federal prison — he will also serve three years of supervised release and pay over $70,000 in restitution. Go Local Prov
- ➤ A Marine Corps veteran was killed by a hit-and-run driver on North Main Street during a New Year's Eve party in 2023—city leaders have secured over $5 million and will use the funds to add safer crosswalks, biking lanes, paving and striping. 10 WJAR
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ In the first six months of 2025, cannabis sales in the state reached $68.7 million—mirroring last year’s figures as the average transaction fell from $36.19 to $34.99; state officials say these numbers show a stable and maturing market under strong oversight. Go Local Prov
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Bristol native Scarlet Biancuzzo, a Barrington High School graduate, was awarded a $60,000 journalism scholarship by Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio—she will attend the University of Missouri this fall to pursue her passion for storytelling. Her high school internship at the State House helped shape her future in journalism. Rhode Island PBS
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Today the RIPTA Board postponed its planned vote on cutting bus routes after Governor McKee sent a letter urging a new plan to close a $10 million budget gap by cutting low-performing routes—an action following an efficiency study that indicated service cuts were inevitable without further cost-saving measures. Rhode Island PBS
- ➤ On Thursday, Aug 7, the RIPTA board tabled a proposal to cut bus routes intended to mend a $10 million shortfall for fiscal 2026 after Gov. McKee sent a last-minute letter advising caution—critics and transit advocates voiced sharp concerns over impending layoffs and reduced services. CEO Chris Durand said the board will announce its final decisions soon—while riders remain worried about the long-term viability of the system. Rhode Island PBS
- ➤ Rhode Island Gov. McKee nominated former state official Stefan Pryor to return as Commerce secretary on Wednesday, pending Senate confirmation as the General Assembly remains on recess. House Speaker Joe Shekarchi expects Pryor’s extensive experience to support state economic development+his Senate confirmation will restore continuity in public-private efforts. Rhode Island PBS
- ➤ Providence officials approved a nearly $150 million plan to upgrade city buildings and parks last week. Almost $50 million will go to building a new Public Works garage and to fixing City Hall and parks—projects set to finish within five years. 10 WJAR
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Garden Volunteer Day at Mt. Pleasant Library
10:00-11:30 a.m. — Mt. Pleasant Library — Free entry — Help maintain the beautiful library garden and enjoy the outdoors while giving back to the community.
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Anthony Robustiano Live Comedy Show
7 PM – 1 AM — Comedy Connection — Check venue for pricing — Enjoy a night of high-energy stand-up comedy with Anthony Robustiano's relatable and vibrant storytelling.
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Providence Art Club New Exhibitions Opening
2-4 p.m. — Providence Art Club — Free entry — Explore vibrant new art exhibitions featuring various talented artists and their unique perspectives.
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Fungi Exploration Walk
6-7:30 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Discover the wonders of fungi while exploring nature on a walk to Roger Williams Park.
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