Good morning, Warwick.

Rhode Island communities will celebrate Memorial Day on May 25 with parades at town halls, a 5K run at Fort Adams on May 23, and a Gaspee Days Arts and Crafts Festival at Pawtuxet Park over the weekend+ the events honor veterans and offer family fun.

Providence Journal invited locals to email their picks for iconic Rhode Island brands omitted from its April list + submissions should include a brief explanation to help shape a new story.

The School Committee approved layoffs of 18 teachers, three administrators, and 21 aides at Veterans Middle School Tuesday as part of the FY27 budget with a 3+2 vote.

Parents and staff criticized the cuts and warned the decision may reduce available courses for students.

Rhode Island gubernatorial candidate Helena Foulkes proposed a $100 million plan on Wednesday, May 13 to build new career and technical schools using a future general obligation bond that will need voter approval.

She received endorsements from International Union of Operating Engineers Local 57 and Johnston Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr.

Warwick School Committee approved the public schools budget for fiscal year 2027 in a unanimous 5 to 0 vote, as presented by Superintendent William McCaffrey — the measure sets the spending framework for local schools.

The Rhode Island DMV now offers the Atlantic Shark Institute plate featuring a mako shark design — buyers pay $43.50, with $20 supporting shark research, and plates ordered online or by mail will arrive in about four weeks.

Public beaches are managed by state and local authorities that restrict overnight sleeping except on designated campsites (for example, Charlie’s Breachway and Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground), and violating these rules may result in fines.

Warwick native Simone Gauvin was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2016 and continues to lead an active lifestyle that inspires many in the community.

Stepstone Falls offers a scenic hike with beautiful waterfall views as hikers start their journey at the Ben Utter Trailhead in Exeter (a local alternative to out-of-state trips).

The route provides a refreshing option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Johnston softball won 6 to 5 over Portsmouth on Tuesday as senior pitcher Haley Boudreau shined on Senior Night and set her sights on a title.

The team looks to climb the Division II standings in upcoming games.

LEADS Lunch Networking Event

12:00 – 1:30 PM — Urban Air Adventure Park —Registration required — Enjoy lunch and network with local business professionals in a vibrant setting.

Red Island State Marathon (New England Challenge)

N/A — Warwick City Park — Registration Fee Required — Experience a scenic marathon route through beautiful Warwick City Park with views of Narragansett Bay.

Gaspee Days Parade & 5K Foot Race

5k Foot Race — Morning — Gaspee Days Committee — Registration Required — Experience the thrill of running alongside a cheering crowd as you kick off the Annual Gaspee Days Parade.