Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of October.
Good morning, Providence.
Block Island Ferry resumes today on a modified schedule with extra trips after its Wednesday suspension for high surf—customers are urged to call the office to re-book their rides.
Aldi is rebranding its private label products in Providence and other state locations to clearly display its logo—responding to customer feedback.
The changes will roll out over the next few years and will include playful names like Red Bag Chicken.
Chan’s Fine Oriental Dining in Woonsocket is 120 years old and mixes Cantonese food with live jazz and blues for local fans.
Owner John Chan, whose family started the restaurant in 1905 and added music in 1977, runs a cherished spot—one that blends good food with great tunes.
Brown University announced that it laid off 48 employees and cut 55 unfilled positions to trim a $30m deficit caused by federal funding changes—university leaders provided support packages to affected staff and noted that financial uncertainty remained for future fiscal years, as detailed in a September 22 letter.
Rhode Island test scores show that only about one-third of young students do well in English and almost 7 in 10 struggle with math.
Providence schools have improved since before the pandemic though statewide results still lag behind Massachusetts and state leaders plan steps to meet a 2030 goal — a sign that more work is needed.
Paige Censale is a Brown University junior who makes films about immigration and global issues while caring for her mother with early-onset Alzheimer’s.
She has used her volunteer work at the border to guide her studies in international and public affairs—driving her work as a community advocate.
State Rep. Robert Craven ended his attorney general campaign three days after launching it due to renewed focus on two early-2000s domestic violence cases and a disputed endorsement claim — he said that his family must come first and he will decide on re-election later.
R.I. House Speaker Joe Shekarchi said he will start the 2026 legislative session as speaker but has not decided if he will run for governor.
His plan gives him control of the State House agenda + more media attention, though it may bring sharper scrutiny.
Rhode Island police misconduct information is now available online after Ocean State Media reported that the data promised under a 2024 law had not been shared until recently—POST has since added a public docket with ongoing disciplinary cases.
The change came after a political dispute over funding led to delays in meeting the law's transparency requirements.
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.
White Reaper Live
7:30-10 p.m. — Fete Music Hall — ADV $25 | DOS $28 — Catch the energetic performance of White Reaper with special guests Lip Critic and Worlds Worst.
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