Good morning, Warwick.

Garden City Center will lose the Newport Creamery store after its lease expires on December 31—ending a 63-year run at the mall; staff learned of the change recently and the company is seeking a new location in Cranston.

Starting Aug. 15, Route 2 in Cranston will run with one lane in each direction under Route 37 as crews begin tearing down the Route 37 bridge—lane restrictions will affect merging and traffic flow.

The project will continue until mid-November 2025—ramp exits will remain open during the work.

Gov. Dan McKee signed a law on Aug 4 that will raise Rhode Island’s minimum wage from $15 to $16 per hour on Jan 1 and to $17 per hour on Jan 1 the following year—affecting nearly 50,000 workers while excluding tipped employees.

Striking SEIU 1199 workers have been on strike at Butler Hospital for 12 weeks and will hold a press conference at 9:30 a.m. today to push for a fair contract after they rejected a final offer from Care New England.

Hospital officials said the union had not shared key details about the proposal—union leaders are accused of using the strike to boost their profiles.

Modern Calligraphy Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — Cocktail Hour Essentials — Ticket required — Explore the art of modern calligraphy while enjoying a crafty night out.

2025 Fall Pollinator Expo

10 AM – 2 PM — Clouds Hill Museum — Free entry — Celebrate nature and learn about pollinators at this outdoor event for gardening enthusiasts.

Live Music: Kevin Herchen

6-9 p.m. — Harbor Lights Dining Events Golf Marina — Reservations recommended — Enjoy fantastic live music and stunning sunset views with Kevin Herchen.

Apple Festival 2025

10:00 AM – 3:30 PM — Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick (Airport) — Free entry — Celebrate the flavors of autumn with delicious apple treats and family-friendly activities.