Good morning, Providence.

Rhode Island communities opened warming centers yesterday to offer shelter from sub-freezing temperatures, with locations in Pawtucket, Woonsocket, Barrington, Cumberland, and at Crossroads Providence (and Open Doors in Pawtucket).

Residents are invited to cast votes in RI's grocery store bracket competition (featuring Round 2 matchups) after Round 1 saw McQuade’s Marketplace beat Belmont Market, with voting open until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Dec.

8.

Ben Sukle, owner of Oberlin + Gift Horse, said his restaurants help revive downtown Providence’s food scene after the pandemic.

He highlighted challenges such as high taxes, poor infrastructure, and the need to work with local farmers to support fair wages for his 75 employees.

Burger King in Rhode Island launched a SpongeBob-themed menu on Dec.

5 featuring the Krabby Whopper and treats like Mr. Krabs' Cheesy Bacon Tots (with flavor matched to the cartoon). The promotion supports The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squidward set to debut in U.S. theaters on Dec. 19.

Local farms now offer five RI-grown Christmas tree varieties+ each with unique traits like the Fraser fir’s strong branches and white pine’s long needles.

Shoppers can visit these farms to pick the tree that best fits their holiday decorating needs.

A new UNH poll finds 78% of Rhode Islanders are worried about winter heating bills amid rising prices, with only 13% saying they are better off than last year.

The survey, conducted Nov. 13-17, highlights growing economic strain and mixed views on spending.

The Rhode Island treasurer pledged $60 million in state deposits to back 80 to 90 mortgages for first-time homebuyers at Centreville Bank, BankNewport and Navigant Credit Union through the RI AnchorHome pilot.

Buyers earning up to 110% of the area median income will get a 3.99% rate and no PMI.

Rhode Island will cover extension costs for CharterCARE hospitals to remain open for December & January while Centurion Foundation finalizes its deal.

Attorneys reached an agreement on Thursday night with state Attorney General Peter Neronha that gives the hospitals roughly two months to secure a final plan.

The Diocese of Providence announced that state police Lt. Col. Robert Creamer will begin his new role as Director of Compliance on Jan.

5 (he will ensure diocesan employees and clergy follow policies, procedures and law). His appointment supports the church’s ongoing efforts to protect children and vulnerable people.

State officials launched RI AnchorHome to help first-time homebuyers access 30-year fixed-rate mortgages at a starting rate of 3.99 percent.

Applicants meeting credit and income guidelines can apply, and banks + credit unions will review the rate quarterly.

Eric Rueb and Jake Rousseau review the top high school football games and players across all divisions in RI, highlighting key moments that defined the season.

The segment gives local sports fans a detailed look back at standout performances.

Local sports saw big plays this week as Westerly's quarterback Landon Husereau broke state touchdown records and URI advanced with a 27-19 playoff win, setting up a game with UC Davis today.

Providence Bruins vs. Springfield Thunderbirds

3:05 – 4:35 PM — Amica Mutual Pavilion — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting matchup as the Bruins take on the Thunderbirds in a thrilling hockey game.

Meghan Patrick Live

6-10 p.m. — Moonshine Alley — Limited menu available — Enjoy an intimate night of country music with CMT's Next Women of Country 2025 singing her hits.

Earth Wind and Fire Live Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless hits of music legends Earth, Wind & Fire and groove to their unforgettable sound.

Dizgo with Nite Zero Band

7-8:30 p.m. — Fete Music Hall — $25 — Experience an exciting night of music featuring Dizgo and Nite Zero Band.

Kate Voegele with Tyler Hilton

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Greenwich Odeum — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of music with talented artists from 'One Tree Hill'.

Boston Pops Holiday Concert

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Providence Performing Arts Center — On Sale Now — Experience the holiday magic with classic tunes and a special appearance by Santa Claus.

Handel's Messiah

3-6 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Auditorium — Cost info unavailable — Experience the timeless beauty of Handel's Messiah performed live in Providence.

Frosty Night – Wooden Sign

7-9:30 p.m. — Paint and Vino — Complimentary beverage included — Create your own wooden sign while sipping on a drink of your choice.

BalletRI Presents The Nutcracker

7:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Clara's journey to the Land of Sweets this holiday season.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Providence Performing Arts Center — Ticket required — Experience a magical holiday adventure with captivating circus acts and festive music.