Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 17th of August.
Good morning, Providence.
🏘️ Community
This week in Providence, a look back at the notorious 1975 Bonded Vault heist—with thieves targeting mafia accounts—comes alongside news that spotted lanternflies have spread to north-central areas as state officials test pesticide measures.
The roundup also covers a remembrance of historic wooden roller coasters, local events like the Washington County Fair and high school football practices, and the wrap of filming on M. Night Shyamalan’s film celebrated here.
A new movie called Ghostwriter is set to start filming tomorrow on Benefit Street in Providence; it is directed by J.J.
Abrams and stars Glen Powell, Jenna Ortega, and Samuel L. Jackson. In other news, an East Providence man built a pirate ship to support local charities, Nicholas Alahverdian was convicted of a 2008 rape in Utah with sentencing set for Oct. 20, plans for the Cranston Street Armory remain unsettled, and Providence marks 50 years since a major robbery at Hudson Fur Storage on Cranston Street—stories show big shifts in local news.
💼 Business
Aroma Joe's at 257 Thayer St in Providence has introduced a new Poppin' Pumpkin Latte that uses popping candy to add a twist to its pumpkin spice, espresso, and milk drink—available hot or iced until Nov.
2. Every Monday in August, a 24-ounce serving is offered for $2.50 during a special promotion.
Providence businesses are preparing for the 2026 WorldCup as matches begin in June near Foxboro and Ocean State 2026 - a group created by Gov.-McKee's office - is building partnerships to welcome soccer fans.
Moonshine-Alley in Providence says plans tested during March Madness will help them handle a much larger crowd.
🏛️ Government
Mount Hope Bridge reopened Saturday, Aug.
16 at 7:30 p.m.—its resurfacing project finished 33 hours early, allowing traffic to resume. Officials credited a hardworking crew and local cooperation from Bristol and Portsmouth for the quick turnaround.
The Mount Hope Bridge reopened early on Sunday after resurfacing finished 33 hours ahead of schedule.
The first cars crossed at 7:35 pm (Lori Caron Silveira said good weather and a hard-working crew sped up the project) (original plans expected a Monday reopening).
On August 13, the U.S. attorney general sent a letter to Governor McKee that warned Rhode Island’s sanctuary policies could bring federal penalties—like adding immigration rules to state funds—if the state does not change its practices.
Rhode Island Attorney General Neronha called the letter a bully tactic while McKee’s office must reply by August 19.
🏥 Health
State health officials closed the popular swimming area at Easton's Beach on Saturday afternoon after tests found high levels of bacteria in the water.
Officials noted it is the first closure in three years — warning beachgoers that swimming may cause rashes, eye infections, and other severe symptoms.
The Rhode Island Department of Health recommended reopening the swimming areas — Spouting Rock Beach Association and Gooseberry Beach — after bacteria levels fell to safe limits.
The department said it will continue testing the water until Labor Day.
🎉 Providence Events
Submit an event →
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.
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.
Apes of the State Concert
7-11 p.m. — The Met — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the energetic performance of Apes of the State live in Pawtucket.
Acoustic Performance by Milton J
12-6 p.m. — Doomed Records — Free entry — Experience thunderous beats and soul-stirring melodies from singer-songwriter Milton J.
Bonsai Workshop
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Rhodium Room Distillery Bar — Price TBD — Enjoy crafting tiny trees with friends while sipping drinks at the distillery.
Farmer’s Market at Dexter Park
3-7 p.m. — Dexter Training Ground — Free entry — Enjoy fresh produce and local goods while soaking in the community atmosphere.
Adjust The Sails Concert
5-8 p.m. — Alchemy — $15 adv. / $20 dos — Enjoy a night of live music with Nervous Surface at this all-ages event.
The Lemonade Stand 2025
4-10 p.m. — 195 District Park — Free entry — Celebrate local artistry and community spirit at this engaging showcase in Providence.
lowheaven Live Concert
6-9 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $15 adv. / $18 dos — Experience an eclectic night with lowheaven and supporting bands.
Rhode Island Bitcoin Meetup
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Moniker Brewery — Free entry — Connect with fellow Bitcoin enthusiasts at the longest-running Bitcoin group in Rhode Island.
🏠 Providence Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Providence Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Providence Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Providence.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.