Good morning, Warwick.

After teachers protested at City Hall on Monday, Mayor Picozzi increased school funding by $2.1M, raising the city’s contribution for schools to $143M without changing tax rates.

City officials said potential healthcare savings of about $1M may help—but most of the 45 staff positions cut might not be restored if student enrollment remains low.

Mayor Frank Picozzi announced on Monday that Commander Michael Lima, a 21-year veteran, was appointed as the new chief of police at the Warwick Police Department—Deputy Chief Major Andrew Sullivan will be promoted and Colonel Brad Connor is set to retire at the end of June.

Former President Joe Biden was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that spread to the bone on May 16 (the cancer is hormone-sensitive for effective management), and Rhode Island leaders offered support and prayers while calling for nonpartisan compassion (emphasizing care for all affected by the disease).

Providence will add Sabou Gueye, Nalani Kaysia, and Eseosa Imafidon to its women’s basketball team for the 2025-26 season while Bryant, URI women, and the men’s program lose players through the transfer portal, with Bryant’s Silvia Gonzalez headed to George Washington & URI’s Hawa Komara, Anaelle Dutat, and David Green moving to new programs. Coaching changes closed the portal in late April and additional moves may continue into the summer.

Voting is open for this week’s Providence Journal Softball Player of the Week contest during the busy 2025 RIIL season after Cranston East All-Stater Nevaeh Fatorma won last week with over 16,000 votes and 58.19 percent support, and five nominees are competing until Friday night—a winner will be named next week.

The Community College of Rhode Island’s softball team headed to the NJCAA Division III World Series on Monday in Syracuse, New York — marking their second straight appearance as head coach Paul Mercier said the girls were excited for the competition.

Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Pawtuxet Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant arts and crafts festival with local artisans, music, and delicious eats.

AMC Narragansett Spring Fling

1-4 p.m. — Goddard Memorial State Park — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful picnic with games, prizes, and outdoor camaraderie at this annual spring event.

Rhode Island's 14th Annual Esophageal Cancer Walk/Run

9 AM – 12 PM — Warwick City Park — Registration required online — Walk or run to support esophageal cancer awareness and research.

Creeping Beauties of the Woods

6 p.m. — West Warwick Public Library — Free entry — Explore a hauntingly entertaining journey through creepy fairy tales and undead adventures.

Modern Calligraphy Workshop for Beginners

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Cocktail Hour Essentials — Ticket required — Explore modern calligraphy with a fun workshop and take home your own beginner's kit!