Latest News in Providence, RI

Sen. Jack Reed scores viral moment off Linda McMahon during Senate hearing. What happened.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed corrected Secretary of Education Linda McMahon during a Senate hearing on June 3, highlighting a significant mathematical error regarding proposed budget cuts. McMahon incorrectly claimed that a $1.58 billion expenditure over ten years equaled over a trillion dollars, prompting Reed to clarify that it amounted to $15 billion. Reed's intervention gained attention as he criticized the overall impact of President Trump's budget proposals.

Rat poisons are killing RI birds of prey. Will the state ban them?

Rhode Island's state Senate advanced a bill to ban rodenticides after a study revealed all 43 red-tailed hawks tested had rodenticide poisoning. Advocates argue that the legislation will protect wildlife and promote safer pest control methods, while opponents warn it may increase costs and disproportionately impact communities of color.

Community Libraries of Providence goes beyond books. How they're supporting neighborhoods

The Community Libraries of Providence, a network of nine libraries, serves as vital neighborhood hubs, promoting learning and community connection. Director Cheryl Space reported over 487,000 visits last year, highlighting the challenges of funding and rising censorship concerns. The libraries offer various programs and volunteer opportunities to engage the community.

RI Lottery Powerball, Lucky For Life winning numbers for June 4, 2025

Rhode Island Lottery announced the winning numbers from its June 4, 2025, draws, highlighting Powerball, Lucky For Life, and other games. Players can claim prizes under $600 at retail locations, while larger prizes must be claimed at Lottery Headquarters. Drawing times vary by game, with Powerball held three times weekly.

The Dean hotel is now known as Neptune. Here's the story behind the name change.

The Dean hotel in downtown Providence has rebranded as Neptune, reflecting Rhode Island's maritime heritage. A phased renovation will begin later this year, alongside a new restaurant and bar concept set to open this summer. This change follows 11 years of operation under the previous name.

He tried to burn down a RI Black church. Here's how much time he'll spend in prison.

A federal judge sentenced Kevin Colantonio, 36, to 6-and-a-half years in prison for attempting to set fire to a predominantly Black church in North Providence, Rhode Island. Colantonio pleaded guilty to charges including malicious damage by fire and obstruction of religious beliefs, with prosecutors citing racial motivations for the crime. Investigators discovered extremist writings linked to Colantonio, indicating a deeper pattern of hate.

Providence police refer investigation of local NAACP branch to FBI

Providence police referred a financial complaint about the local NAACP branch to the FBI, citing its multijurisdictional nature. National NAACP leaders filed the complaint, leading to the suspension of former branch president Gerard Catala for campaign finance violations.

Senate votes to open RI to new sports betting apps. Would that boost state revenues?

Rhode Island lawmakers are considering legislation to allow multiple sports betting apps, challenging the current monopoly held by International Game Technology. The proposed bill, which passed the state Senate, aims to enhance player experience and increase tax revenue, as Rhode Islanders currently spend only $38 annually on sports betting, one of the lowest rates in the nation.

Warwick to deploy devices to ticket speeders and other violators

Warwick officials plan to implement traffic enforcement devices at the intersection of Route 113 and Route 5 due to a rise in violations. The initiative aims to enhance road safety near the Crown Plaza Warwick-Providence hotel.

After 508 violations in a single day, Warwick installs red light cameras. Here's where

Warwick will deploy 15 cameras to enforce red light violations at five intersections following a significant number of traffic violations. In a recent study, police recorded 508 violations at the intersection of Airport Road and Post Road in a single day. Officials aim to enhance road safety, particularly for children, with additional cameras targeting speeding in school zones set to activate on August 28.