Good morning, Providence.

A nonprofit helps low income families in Providence and children in the Dominican Republic by providing food, housing, and school supplies.

The volunteer run group faces rising demand with limited funds + relies on community help to keep its programs running.

Rhode Island is accepting applications for up to 24 new recreational cannabis shops with the window open until the end of the year, and sales at the current seven shops reached nearly $9 million in July and August.

The Cannabis Control Commission says the new licenses—half reserved for those hurt by past laws—may lead to the first new shops opening in 2026.

A lawsuit from the ACLU challenges Brown University’s practice of keeping campus police records secret—arguing that officers with similar powers to public police should follow state records laws, while Brown plans to dismiss the suit.

Former officer Michael Greco and student Audrey Gmerek have called for more transparency to hold campus law enforcement accountable.

Brown University laid off 48 employees and eliminated 55 vacant positions as part of measures to address a $30 million deficit.

The plan also includes selling properties in Providence and consolidating health plans—steps that will permanently reduce spending and provide support for affected staff.

John Friedman, the inaugural dean of Brown’s Watson School, said in a video interview that the American Dream is getting harder to reach due to growing racial and economic segregation + fewer chances for strong education.

He explained that when more students build skills and social capital, everyone benefits with more progress.

Brown University is launching a new research center using a $5 million grant from the National Nuclear Security Administration to improve computer simulations of extreme events like high-speed flows and blasts.

The center — a joint effort with NYU and Georgia Tech — will work to make simulation models more stable and accurate.

The state Ethics Commission approved changes to gift rules for public officials—raising limits to $50 per gift and $150 per year while broadening the definition of lobbyists.

The new rules, urged by Common Cause Rhode Island, will take effect on Jan 1, 2026 after a nine-month review process.

The government shutdown began on Oct.

1, and non-essential services like national parks have closed — federal workers deemed non-essential in Rhode Island are furloughed while essential services such as airports, postal service, Social Security, Medicare, and veterans' benefits continue functioning. Passport services and in-person assistance may face delays if the shutdown lasts longer.

Governor McKee sent a letter to House Speaker Shekarchi and Senate President Lawson urging oversight hearings on the demolition and rebuilding of the Washington Bridge after a forensic audit criticized years of faulty repairs that endangered public safety.

The westbound span will remain closed for at least three more years—this disruption has affected local commutes and may influence next year’s gubernatorial race.

South County Health has expanded its oncology team by appointing Dr. Gerald Corvin as Medical Director and adding three permanent providers to form an 11-specialist group that will improve local cancer care.

The health system will open a new outpatient cancer clinic at the East Greenwich Medical and Wellness Center later this fall—this change follows a year after several cancer doctors resigned.

Judge Judy sold her Newport mansion for $15.3 million in September to Sea Spray Newport LLC, according to city records.

The 15,600-square-foot estate built in 2012 once belonged to philanthropist Dorrance H. Hamilton and has six bedrooms and six bathrooms—details that highlight its luxury design.

Christopher Bessin of East Providence missed the Boston Marathon qualifying time by one second in a 26.2-mile race in Erie, Pa.

He set his personal best—running nearly perfect pacing—and said his performance shows how tougher qualifying standards have made the race harder to reach.

Bryant University's Smithfield campus was named as a potential base camp for FIFA's 2026 World Cup after its facilities met high standards during inspections—this option could let international teams train near Gillette Stadium in Foxboro starting next June, and a news conference is scheduled on campus tomorrow.

Bryant University has been chosen as one of the base camp sites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after inspections and visits by FIFA officials—Gov. Dan McKee, General Treasurer James Diossa and Bryant University President Dr. Ross Gittell will announce the selection on Friday at 1 p.m.

Live Music with J. Michael Graham

5-9 p.m. — The Guild PVD Beer Garden — Free admission — Celebrate the weekend with live music from Rhode Island's own J. Michael Graham.

Howl-o-ween Hike N Treat

2:30-5:00 p.m. — Warwick City Park — Fundraising entry — Bring your furry friends for a fun-filled hike benefiting the Warwick Animal Shelter.

Improv 101 Class

Oct 5 – Nov 2 — Kismet Improv — Cost info not provided — Discover the fun of improv in this beginner-friendly four-week class.

Rhode Island International Film Festival

8-10 p.m. — 195 District Park — Tickets available — Celebrate diverse global storytelling with Oscar-qualifying films from over 60 countries.

Golden Reflection Painting Night

7-9:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Complimentary beverage included — Unleash your creativity while sipping and painting at this relaxing studio session.

Collecting Modern Furniture: A Panel Conversation

5-6:30 p.m. — Providence Preservation Society — $15 Students / $30 PPS Members / $35 General — Explore insights on collecting modern design from experts in a guided discussion.

Rhode Island International Film Festival

8-10 p.m. — 195 District Park — Entry Fee to be Confirmed — Experience global cinema with films from over 60 countries at this prestigious festival.

Jurassic Quest

12-3 p.m. — Rhode Island Convention Center — Family-friendly adventure — Experience the world’s most popular dinosaur exhibit alongside an exciting LEGO festival.

Annie Dukes with Meridian, Lady Pills, Marou, & Gamma Rage

7-11 p.m. — Fete Music Hall — $12 ADV | $15 DOS — Enjoy a night of live music featuring local acts and vibrant performances.

Anthony Rodia Comedy Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Uptown Theater — Ticket information available — Enjoy an evening of sharp and relatable humor from Italian-American comedian Anthony Rodia.