A jury in Rhode Island has reached a verdict that could cost former makers of lead paint billions of dollars. After more than a week of deliberations that jury has decided three companies should be held accountable for the lead poisoning of thousands of children in this state.

A Liberian exiles living in Rhode Island are looking forward to a bright future in their once war torn country.
Rhode Island has the highest per capita rate of Liberian exiles in the country.
Hundreds of them turned out Sunday for a visit by the country's first woman president.

Click the link for the entire address delivered to the local Liberian community Sunday by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.

The poverty rate among children in Rhode Island is rising. Three quarters of the children living poverty live in one of six communities: Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Woonsocket, West Warwick, or Newport . Despite rising poverty, statistics show the vast majority of children are healthy and receive preventative care. Those are among the conclusions in the 12th annual Rhode Island Kids Count Fact Book.

Click the listen link to hear WRNI's Bob Seay talking about the status of children in this state with Rhode Island Kids Count Director Elizabeth Burke-Bryant.

The Organizers of the Rhode Island International Film Festival are launching a second festival. The month long Roving Eye Festival features 25 documentaries being shown at venues around the state.

The festival began at the Columbus Theater with the new documentary "A Life Among Whales" It explores the lives of whales through the eyes of biolgist Roger Payne.

Click the listen link to hear WRNI's Bob Seay talking about the film with its producer and director Bill Haney.

Trinity Repertory Company in Providence describes its latest production as a docu-drama. Boots On The Ground depicts the impact of the war in Iraq on those here at home. It is based on interviews with soldiers, reporters, and military families.
Listen to hear WRNI's Bob Seay's interview with the play's creators, Laura Kepley and Deb Salem Smith.

The man who touched off the fireworks that sparked the deadly Station Nightclub fire three years ago is beginning a prison sentence.

Daniel Biechelle was the tour manager for the band Great White. He did not receive as harsh a sentence as state prosecutors sought, but he has received a more serious sentence than that proposed by his lawyer.

WRNI's Flo Jonic reports.

As Brown University investigates the relationship of slavery to its founding, a new book tells the story of two founders of the University and their sharp dispute over slavery.

Click the listen link to hear Bob Seay's interview with Charles Rappleye, author of "Sons of Providence: The Brown Brothers, the Slave Trade, and the American Revolution."

The affordable housing crisis in Rhode Island is growing. That's demonstrated in two new reports.

Use of emergency homeless shelters in Rhode Island is again at a new all time high. A report prepared for the Rhode Island Emergency Food and Shelter Board shows shelter use was up 2% in the past fiscal year. That's the fourth annual increase in a row. Bob Seay discussed the report with Shelter Board Chairman David McCreadie.

Hurricane Season is approaching. Each year, meteorologists warn that this region is long overdue for a catastrophic storm. There hasn't been one since 1954. The most serious storm in anyone's memory is the "Long Island Express," which struck Rhode Island in 1938.
Click the listen link to hear Flo Jonic look back on that storm and ask about the state's readiness for the next big storm.

Closing arguments are scheduled in the trial of the alleged killer of a Providence police detective.

The trial of Esteban Carpio has focused public attention on serious mental illness. That's because defense attorneys are employing an insanity defense, a rarely used defense in criminal trials.

Mental health practitioners warn the trial gives a misleading impression of mental illness. David Lauterbach, president of Kent center Warwick , told Bob Seay that he worries the case could add to the stigma of the illness.

Now that summer has arrived, young people have plenty of extra time on their hands. Some inner city kids from Providence will be spending some of that time in an unlikely setting, on the golf course.

Bob Seay visited the non-profit Bottonhole golf course on the Providence-Johnston border.

Some key decisions are expected in coming weeks about the future of the Providence public library.

Operators of the second largest public library system in New England are proposing closing several branches to make ends meet.

A one-time barber, who some doctors call psychotic, is facing a life sentence without parole for the murder of a Providence police detective more than a year ago.
A superior court jury has rejected an insanity defense and found Esteban Carpio guilty of first degree murder.

After settlers from Europe arrived in New England, the Narragansett Indian tribe endeavored to maintain a peaceful existence with the newcomers.

That ended with an attack on the tribe that drew it into King Phillip's War.

That's one of the stories recounted in the new book Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War.

WRNI's Bob Seay discussed the book with author Nathaniel Philbrick.

Imagine a paralyzed man using the power of his brain to play a computer game, adjust the television volume, or check his e-mail.

It sounds like science fiction, but it's the result of a tiny sensor implanted in the man's mind.

The sensor was created by Cyber-kinetics Neurotechnolgy Systems, a private firm created by some Brown University researchers in partnership with the school.

WRNI's Bob Seay discussed the results of the initial testing with Brown University Professor John Donahue.

Amidst increasing Arab-Israeli violence, some activists on both sides of the conflict maintain people in the Middle East can live in peace.

These peace activists promote dialogue to address long standing tensions and pain.

Their story is the subject of one of the films shown tonight as part of the Rhode Island International Film Festival.

WRNI's Robert Ames discussed the film "Encounter Point," with its director, Ronit Avni.

Among those anxiously watching to find out whether the Mideast cease fire lasts are some Rhode Islanders, who were in the region during the fighting.
WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with two of them this week: Nadia MacAbbee has just returned from Israel for her junior year at Brown University. She spent the summer doing volunteer service as part of an ambulance crew.

Brown University Political Science Professor Melani Cammett hopes to return to Lebanon in the fall, despite a frightening exit from the country that cost her $1300.

While many communities are trying to lower class size, one Rhode Island town is hoping to attract additional students.

School officials in Jamestown are inviting students from other communities to enroll in Jamestown Schools.

WRNI's Mark Degon discussed the plan with Jamestown Superintendent of Schools Robert Power.

Rhode Island voters next week which of two Republicans will continue to campaign for the U.S. Senate.

It's a decision of national interest as the Republican party tries to hold on to its control of the Senate, while Democrats fight to regain a little political strength.

Incumbent Senator Lincoln Chafee frequently finds himself at odds with the Republican Party. But he has strong backing from the party, as he tries to fight off a challenge from a more conservative Republican, Cranston Mayor Steve Laffey. WRNI's Flo Jonic has been following both candidates on the campaign trail.

In just a matter of weeks, Lieutenant Corporal Eric Valdepenas would have returned from Iraq to his large, close knit family in Seekonk, a small community by the Rhode Island border.

The 21-year-old had been assigned to the Marine Reserve's First Battalion with the 25th Marine Regiment, which is headquartered in Ayer, Massachusetts . He was on patrol in the Al Anbar Province on Monday when a roadside bomb struck his vehicle. Valdepenas and two other Marines from his unit died in the attack.

Developments in Rhode Island politics with Providence Journal Political Reporter Scott MacKay and University of Rhode Island Political Science Chair Maureen Moakley.

The political round-table this week focuses on the upcoming primary elections.

Leaders of the national Republican Party have the U.S. Senate candidate who they wanted in the general election in Rhode Island.

Incumbent Senator Lincoln Chafee will take on former Rhode Island Attorney General Sheldon Whitehouse.

Chafee has survived the challenge of a more conservative republican, Cranston Mayor Steve Laffey.

While the U.S. Senate race has attracted the most attention, several other general election races are set following yesterday's primary.
State Senator Elizabeth Roberts will face former Rhode Island National Guard Adjutant General Reggie Centrachio in the race for Lieutenant Governor.
Congressman James Langevin, who has no Republican opponent, easily won a primary challenge. And the Mayor of North Providence is the democratic candidate for secretary of state.

The impact of war on society is the subject of a classic play that's now being staged in Pawtucket.

Mother Courage and Her Children is the first play of the new season at the Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theater. It runs through October 22.

Many of the thousands of Liberian nationals, who have made Rhode Island their home for more than a decade, are facing up to the prospect that their time may be coming to an end.

The Department of Homeland Security is notifying them they have to leave the country next year.

Liberians are not giving up though.

The Attorney General in Rhode Island is denying anyone in his office played any role in shaping a plea deal for the owners of the Station Nightclub, where 100-people were killed in a fire three years ago.

He's not holding out much hope of blocking it though. The judge in the case is making it clear he plans to stick to the agreement under which one owner would spend four years behind bars and the other would do no jail time at all.

There are two proposed changes to the Rhode Island constitution on the ballot in November.

Backers are spending millions of dollars on the campaign in favor of the question that would permit a casino in West Warwick.

The campaign for approval of question two is much smaller. That question would restore voting rights to convicted felons as soon as their released from prison.

Ethics in state government becomes a campaign issue once again.

The Rhode Island Attorney General is on the defensive about a plea deal in the Station Night Club prosecutions. And Congressman Patrick Kennedy's first re-election ad addresses his substance abuse problems.

Those are among the topics WRNI's Bob Seay discusses this week with U.R.I Political Science Chair Maureen Moakley and Providence Journal Political Reporter Scott MacKay.

The new artistic director at Trinity Repertory Theater is displaying his abilities.

Curt Columbus directs the first show of the season at Trinity. The Cherry Orchard runs through October 22. WRNI Theater critic Bill Gale finds it a worthwhile effort.

Two women who live in Providence are planning their wedding in Massachusetts.

A judge in that state has ruled that same sex couples from Rhode Island can cross the border to marry, because there is no explicit prohibition in Rhode Island law. WRNI's Bianca Vasquez-Toness reports.

Despite the pleas of prosecutors and the relatives of some people killed in the Station Nightclub fire, a judge has finalized a plea deal for the owners of the club.

Michael Derderian is beginning a sentence of four years behind bars. Jeffrey Derderian will serve no time in prison. WRNI's Nancy Cook reports on the emotional sentencing.

The political ramifications of the Station Nightclub Fire plea bargain, political debates, and low number license plates are among the topics of this week's political round-table.

Regular guests Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island Political Science department joined WRNI's Bob Seay.

The possible sale of Harrah's entertainment and campaigning by nationally known political figures are among the topics reviewed by the WRNI round-table this week.

WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

Two women in Providence are now legally married. They are the first same sex couple from Rhode Island to travel to Massachusetts for a court approved wedding.

WRNI's Flo Jonic attended the ceremony.

As of next year, there are going to be some new faces occupying many of the state-wide offices in Rhode Island .

Incumbents are seeking re-election only to the offices of governor and attorney general. As part of a series of interviews with candidates for statewide office, WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with the democratic nominee for secretary of state. He's Pawtucket mayor Ralph Mollis.

Around the country, corrections officials and prisoner advocates warn that prisons appear to have a revolving door. Once people are released from prison, they say, there are not enough support services to help them successfully re-enter society. In South Providence , some former prisoners are finding support not from a government agency but from a church.

Incumbents are seeking re-election only to the offices of governor and attorney general. As part of a series of interviews with candidates for statewide office, WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with the Republican nominee for secretary of state. She's City Councillor Sue Stenhouse.

Forced out of its usual performing space during renovation work, Second Story Theater of Warren is staging a court-room drama in an actual court room. It is using the courtroom in the Old Statehouse in Bristol for its production of Inherit the Wind. WRNI Theater Critic Bill Gale has this review.

Candidates for the U.S. Senate in Rhode Island are becoming more aggressive. Plenty of money is being spent on that campaign and several others. WRNI's Bob Seay discussed that and more during the weekly political round table.

WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

Rhode Island voters face choices next month not just of candidates but on nine ballot questions. The most contentious is question 1. It asks whether you approve of changing the Rhode Island constitution to allow a casino in West Warwick operated by the Narragansett Indian tribe and its chosen partner. The tribe has tried for more than a decade to win approval of a casino. Nancy Cook asks who might benefit from a casino.

The race for Rhode Island attorney general this year is a re-match from the election four years ago. Incumbent Patrick Lynch is opposed by Republican Bill Harsch. Harsch challenged Lynch for the post previously as an independent. Bill Harsch told WRNI's Bob Seay the importance of the office of Attorney General can't be over-looked.

In the race for Rhode Island Attorney General, the incumbent claims to have experience that his challenger does not. Attorney General Patrick Lynch began his legal career as a state prosecutor and has been the elected official in charge of the office for the past four years. But experience also gives Lynch a public record that Republican Bill Harsch criticizes regularly. Attorney General Lynch told WRNI's Bob Seay he holds one of the most challenging positions in state government, but also one of the most gratifying.

Brown University has released a long-awaited report on its ties to slavery. It includes recommendations for making amends. But the report doesn't apologize for the university's past, nor does it suggest the university pay reparations. Brown's first female African American President commissioned the study.

In their first televised debate the Rhode Island candidates for the U.S. Senate continued their now familiar strategy. In the debate broadcast on WRPI television, Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse tried to focus on national issues and the national Republican Party. Incumbent Lincoln Chafee tried to focus on local issues.

The Rhode Island candidates for U.S. Senate are going negative, as the national Republican Party is reportedly giving up hope of holding onto the Senate seat in this state. That's among the topics examined in the political round-table.

WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

It appears race plays a role in determining the quality of care received by people enrolled in managed care programs. That's the conclusion of study done by a researcher at the Brown Medical School. The study that appears in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows racial disparities among managed care plans in the Medicare program. The study was conducted by Doctor Amal Travedi who spoke with WRNI's Bob Seay.

The two U.S. Senate candidates and most of the major candidates for state-wide office in Rhode Island shared the same stage Friday.

They appeared at a forum hosted by the Center for Hispanic Policy and Advocacy. The Latino population of Rhode Island has become a growing political force, as the population has doubled in the past decade, as Nancy Cook reports.

The two candidate for Governor in Rhode Island have formally debated nine times on issues ranging from health care to senior citizens concerns to good government. But the economy and job development is an issue that keeps popping up as a major issue. Nancy Cook takes a look at the candidates' economic policies.

The U.S. Senate campaign in Rhode Island has become even more negative. Opponents of the proposed casino in West Warwick are upset about a Providence Journal editorial this week that endorses a casino.

WRNI's Bob Seay spoke with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

The two candidates for Governor of Rhode Island espouse different philosophies on the role of government and have dissimilar resumes. The incumbent had a successful business career. His Democratic rival has spent his career in government. We continue our candidate conversations this morning by meeting the Democratic c31andidate for governor.

Wrni's Bob Seay discussed the campaign with Charlie Fogarty, a former state senator who is now Lieutenant Governor.

The Republican candidate for governor has less than four years of experience holding state office. He has held only the top office in state government. Mark Degon spoke with the incumbent, Governor Don Carcieri in his State House office.

An estimated 125,000 people in Rhode Island do not have health insurance.

That's about 12% of the state's population.

Both candidates for governor list health care reform among their top priorities. But Nancy Cook reports that they propose very different solutions.

With the mid-term election just a few days away, candidates are focusing on making sure they get their supporters to the polls. Voter turn-out is one of the topics covered in the political round-table conducted by Bob Seay with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

The two candidates for the U.S. Senate in Rhode Island have a lot in common, aside from their party affiliations. Incumbent Lincoln Chafee and democrat Sheldon Whitehouse have similar backgrounds and similar positions on most issues. Both are critical of the war in Iraq . But Nancy Cook reports one issue where there is some disagreement is how to proceed in Iraq .

Advocates for women today are urging single women to make sure their voices at heard at the polls tomorrow. Marcia Conne-Tighe, executive director of the Women's Fund of Rhode Island spoke told Bob Seay she's telling women that there is no excuse for not voting.

One day before the Rhode Island elections, candidates are focusing heavily on high voter turn out areas such as Cranston, East Providence, and Warwick.

Traditionally, Warwick has politically belonged to the Chafee family. Before succeeding his father in U.S. Senate, Lincoln Chafee served seven years as mayor there, after serving on the city council.

But even in his home city, Chafee is locked in a tight re-election battle with democrat Sheldon Whitehouse, as Nancy Cook reports.

Rhode Island voters have responded to the years of debate over a proposed casino in West Warwick . Harrah's entertainment spent about 12-million dollars on a campaign to persuade voters to back the casino, which would have benefited the Narragansett Indian tribe. But casino advocates won over fewer than 40-percent of voters as Nancy Cook reports.

In the tightest race of the Rhode Island elections, Governor Carcieri has won a second term in office. But just barely.

As Democrats won every other statewide race the governor managed to pick up about 51% of the vote, compared to 49% for his Democratic opponent, Lieutenant Governor Charlie Fogarty.

Democrats were winners of all but one statewide election in Rhode Island.

Incumbent Governor Donald Carcieri narrowly won re-election.

Incumbent U.S. Senator Lincoln Chafee lost his position.

Bob Seay reviewed the election results with Brown University Political Science Professor Darryl West.

Rhode Island will have an entirely Democratic congressional delegation as of January.

The two Democratic members of the U.S. House easily won re-election.

The Republican, who had represented Rhode Island in the U.S. Senate for four years, will not be returning. Flo Jonic reports on the victory of Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse over incumbent Lincoln Chafee.

"Probuditi" is the title of the latest children's book written and illustrated by Providence's Chris Van Allsburg. It's his first with African Americans as the central characters. But Van Allsburg has returned to a farmiliar theme-magic. He told Bob Seay that the title, Probuditi, is a word used by a magician and hypnotist.

Among the challenges facing education leaders in Providence is reform of the city’s middle schools. All seven middle schools in Providence are classified as in need of improvement under the No Child Left Behind act.

Some students at those schools are getting extra help though. Flo Jonic reports on an intense tutoring program available to them.

More film projects are planned in Rhode Island in the new year. The state has become the back-drop for numerous films and television shows in the past year and a half, as the sight of production crews and stars at work has become familiar. Leaders of the Rhode Island house are suggesting a movie studio be opened at Quonset point. The new industry in Rhode Island is spawning some side businesses in the state, as well. WRNI's Nancy Cook reports.

The holiday season is bringing many traditional shows to Rhode Island stages, including "The Nutcracker" and "A Christmas Carol." But one area theater is providing a decidedly different view. Theater Critic Bill Gale took in the latest productions on stage at the Sandra Feinstein Gamm Theater in Pawtucket.

The tradition continues. For 30 years now, Trinity Repertory Theater has staged a production of "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. The new artistic director has made some changes this year. Theater Critic Bill Gale appreciates the effort, but finds something missing.

Controversy continues over how to review ballots from tight elections in East Providence and Cranston. State prosecutors have begun releasing some of the documents from the criminal probe of the deadly Station Night Club fire of three years ago. Those are some of the topics WRNI's Bob Seay discusses with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

At the same time as its production of "A Christmas Carol," Trinity Repertory Theater is staging a different type of holiday. Theater Critic Bill Gale finds "Dublin Carol" by Conor McPherson fascinating:

The Rhode Island Supreme Court faces its first question about same sex marriage. The president of the University of Rhode Island is defending the school's reputation. Those are some of the topics WRNI's Bob Seay discusses with regular analysts Scott MacKay of the Providence Journal and Maureen Moakley of the University of Rhode Island.

Rhode Island homeless shelters have been filled to capacity this week
as men and women who usually sleep outdoors seek shelter from the intense cold. Some homeless people are so put off by shelters they need some encouragement to enter one. WRNI's Flo Jonic introduces us to one man, who tries to provide that encouragement.

In this installment of our cultural roundtable we look beyond the stage
at the community value of our local arts organizations, and at how the
community and the press view and support those organizations. WRNI's Bob Seay talks with Providence Black Rep's artistic director Don King, and veteran arts journalist Bill Gale.

As state lawmakers begin reviewing state spending, Governor Carcieri
is pushing for some immediate spending cuts. He says ending the current fiscal year without a deficit will require sacrifices from many groups. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports on the supplemental budget proposal the governor submitted yesterday.

Listen to the Democratic response to the Governor's address.

Listen to WRNI's excerpts from the Governor's state of the state address.

Listen to the Governor Carcieri's full address.

Senate Majority leader, democrat Teresa Paiva-Weed, responds to the
Governor's state of the state address. She talks with WRNI's Bob Seay.

Dancer and Choreographer Liz Lerman is bringing her unique participatory 'Dance Exchange' work to Providence. WRNI's Bob Seay visits the production and talks with Lerman.

Trinity Repertory Company has performed plenty of Shakespeare. This
season it's taking its first crack at the Bard's early history play, Richard
III. Bill Gale has a review.

Rhode Island kids are reading, writing and doing arithmetic better
than they did a year ago but they still lag behind their counterparts
in New Hampshire and Vermont. WRNI's Flo Jonic has results from the
latest round of New England Common Assessment Program testing.

The popularity of farmers' markets and the growing trend to eating
local are keeping some Rhode Island farmers busy even in the winter.
WRNI's Elizabeth Smick reports on their extended growing season.

Playwright Martin McDonagh lists Harold Pinter and David Mamet as two of his favorite writers. Their influence is obvious in a McDonagh play now on stage at the Sandra Feinstein Gamm theater in Pawtucket. Bill Gale has this review.

Some sports fans in this area are still searching for words to describe
their disappointment in the New England Patriots' narrow loss in super-bowl 42 on Sunday. Some say they're in pain. But commentator Frederick Reamer found himself in tears on Sunday for a far different reason.

With Valentine's Day upon us, Festival Ballet Providence is offering a mid-winter bill of three ballets noted for their emotional qualities. Masters of Motion is at the VMA February 8, 9 and 10. Bill Gale has a review.

In between revivals of classics, 2nd Story Theater in Warren some digs up some obscure plays as well. Now on stage is a little known play called Red Scare. Theater critic Bill Gale finds it well worth seeing.

Presidential candidate John McCain made a brief campaign stop in Rhode Island yesterday before racing up to Boston to receive the endorsement of vanquished former rival Mitt Romney. Governor Carcieri, who until last week was Romney's Rhode Island campaign chair, also endorsed the Arizona senator. WRNI's Flo Jonic was there.

One way Governor Carcieri hopes to help balance the state budget is
by sending fewer Rhode Island seniors to nursing homes. He's not the first person to make that proposal. Some advocates for seniors have long pushed for more community based services. And although they are excited to see the Governor on board, they're nervous about the details. WRNI's Megan Hall reports.

Governor Carcieri's budget proposal to rely less on nursing homes for
elderly care reflects a national movement away from institutional care.
WRNI's Bob Seay talks with Professor Larry Polifka. Polifka is the associate director of the School of Aging Studies at the University of South Florida, and the director of the Florida Policy Exchange Center on Aging.

Nudity is one thing for adults. But when children are involved there's
a difference. At the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence
a strong production takes on the issue. Bill Gale has a review. Some Things are Private continues at Trinity Rep through March 23. Bill
gale reviews the performing arts for WRNI.

There's more proof of the influence Rhode Island could have in the democratic presidential primary. Senator Hillary Clinton took a day away from Ohio or Texas yesterday to barnstorm in this state, which also holds a primary next week. Speaking before a crowd of two thousand at Rhode Island College, Senator Clinton vowed to extract the u-s from the war in Iraq, establish health insurance for all, and create five million new jobs through an energy independence program. WRNI's Flo Jonic was on hand.

Illinois senator Barak Obama is now the only major candidate from either party, who has not made a direct appeal for support from Rhode Island voters ahead of the primary here one week from now. Even conservative republican Mike Huckabee is trying to drum up support in Rhode Island. WRNI's Megan Hall reports that despite the enormous lead of John McCain, Huckabee and his Rhode Island supporters are not ready to give up.

In less than one week, Rhode Islanders get their chances to weigh in
on the race for president. In a tight primary, it appears the preference
of voters in this state will carry a lot more weight than usual. Casting
your vote could be a little more difficult too, because of the state budget crisis. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports.

When Mike O’Connell took over management of the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation he realized some things were not quite right. With the help of Governor Carcieri, an expedited audit was requested. WRNI’s Flo Jonic reports on the findings of the audit released yesterday.

Senior projects have become a sign of change for earning a high school
diploma in Rhode Island. Another sign of change is a controversial
proposal to make so-called "high stakes testing" a bigger part of graduation requirements. But educators and students are finding there is no simple path to graduation day. WRNI's Rhonda Miller reports.

It's been almost five months since the state department of transportation imposed weight restrictions on the interstate 95 Pawtucket River bridge because of corroded steel. Ample time for truckers to get the message that if they're carrying more than 22 tons they need to take a detour. But as Wrni's Flo Jonic reports, state police find violators every day.

Rhode Island's unemployment rate has hit a 13 year high. The Ocean State now has the sixth highest unemployment rate in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. WRNI's Flo Jonic examines the factors for, and the people, behind the numbers.

Tom Brady is a retired Army colonel who has been acting head of
Philadelphia schools. Brady has held high level positions in
Washington, D.C. and Fairfax, Virginia schools. WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller has more from Tom Brady and some who know him.

WRNI's Bob Seay talks Lincoln Chafee about his new book Against the Tide: How a Compliant Congress Empowered a Reckless President forum.

The new Providence school superintendent Tom Brady is a retired army
colonel who starts work July 14. Brady replaces Donnie Evans who resigned in march. Brady is the acting head of Philadelphia schools, which just appointed a permanent leader. He spoke from his Philadelphia office with WRNI Morning Edition host Bob Seay.

It's easy enough to feel pessimistic about Rhode Island. The state's
unemployment rate is the 6th highest in the country. The state deficit
is the highest in nearly 20 years. And homes have lost six percent of
their value in the past 14 months. But there is also cause for optimism
- due in large part to the presence of RISD and Brown University, a new industry is taking root. WRNI's Flo Jonic has our story.

The issue of illegal immigration has recently moved into the forefront.
But, even before governor Carcieri issued his executive order designed
to crack down on illegal residents, a flood of bills with the same intent
had been filed on smith hill. After years of passive acceptance of a broken federal immigration system, some Rhode Islanders are saying 'enough is enough'. Advocates, however, say they're being made scapegoats for years of overspending and corruption.
WRNI's Flo Jonic begins our series with an overview.

Two years before the Governor's executive order to crack down on illegal immigration, Rhode Island's general assembly voted to stop giving health care to undocumented and even some legal immigrants. That was through changes to RIte care - the state sponsored program that provides health coverage to low income children and families. Now the state is considering cutting over two thousand immigrant children who were spared from those cuts. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has more.

Education week magazine recently ranked the state's schools among the most expensive and lowest performing in the country. Educators say the disconnect is due in part to the large number of non-English speaking students.
There's no question that many English language learners are performing below grade level and dropping out of high school. But, WRNI's Flo Jonic reports that improving academic achievement is complex and costly.

As Rhode Island engages in a debate about how to care for immigrants who came here illegally, there's little talk about those newcomers who came here legally, but would go back home if they could. Over the past five years, Rhode Island has welcomed more than a thousand refugees from war torn countries around the world. Many come from parts of Africa like Liberia and Burundi where medical care is nothing like the American health system. A new program through the international institute and the department of health aims to make that transition a little easier.

The congressional stalemate over immigration has left many employers scrambling to find summer workers. In Newport, hotels are hoping to solve the shortage before the tourism season gets into full swing. WRNI's Elizabeth Smick reports.

WRNI's Morning Edition host Bob Seay discusses some of the issues
raised in this series with reporters Flo Jonic, Megan Hall and
Elizabeth Smick.

When two mentally ill men died after encounters with the police this
year, Rhode Island law enforcement officials and mental health advocates took notice. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has 2 reports on the topic. The first looks at efforts in Rhode Island to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Rhode Island law enforcement is working with mental health advocates to implement a mental health program called crisis intervention teams or CIT. Over ten states and many more cities have turned to CIT after mental health tragedies. In the second of this two part series WRNI's Megan Hall reports on the crisis intervention team in New London, Connecticut.

The City of Providence has appointed its fourth school
superintendent in less than 10 years. He's a retired army colonel who
inherits a district facing complex academic, financial, social and
political issues. This week, WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller
takes a closer look in our series: Providence Schools - In the Shadow
of the Renaissance.

The success of a school usually depends on the success of teachers, In
part two of our series, Rhonda Miller reports on the role of teachers
and teacher unions in the Providence schools.

The Harvard family research project notes that parent involvement is a
critical factor in academic achievement. In this installment, we take
a look at the power of parents in public education.

Providence schools face a difficult year with the state in a severe
budget crisis. A new superintendent starting in July will face
financial challenges that range from aging buildings to updating
curriculum. In this installment, we look at the politics and purse
strings of education.

The humble fruit crate label is celebrated in a new exhibit at Johnson
and Wales University's culinary arts museum. WRNI's Flo Jonic, herself
a collector of these eye-catching 20th century relics, checked it out.

Today three paint companies will appeal a superior court ruling holding
them financially responsible for removing lead paint from over 250,000
buildings in Rhode Island. If the state Supreme Court upholds the
decision, Sherwin Williams, NL industries, and Millennium Holdings will
have to pay for a massive clean up program that may require as many asten thousand people licensed and trained to remove lead paint. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall takes a closer look at the people who do that work already.

Neither the prosecution nor the defense is happy with the jury's verdict
in the case of a Woonsocket woman accused of beating to death her three year old nephew. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports.

Looking for a few good books to read on the beach this summer? WRNI's Elisabeth Smick asked a couble of Brown University professors for their top picks.

Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew" is one of his most performed comedies because it allows for lots of interpretation. The Gamm Theater in Pawtucket has gone far down that road. Bill Gale has a review. The Taming of the Shrew continues at the Gamm Theater through June 15.

Ten Rhode Islanders have died in the Iraq war. Many are buried at the
Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter. That's where WRNI's Flo Jonic caught up with the family of Marine lance corporal Holly Charette, the first female Marine killed in the Iraq conflict.

This Memorial Day, we look at the stories of two Rhode Islanders who
lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The casualties of war extend beyond the men and women in the armed forces. Brown university graduate, researcher, and visiting scholar Michael Bhatia was killed by a road side bomb in Afghanistan earlier this month. WRNI's Megan Hall brings us more on a man who believed writing papers about the war wasn't enough.

2nd Story Theatre in Warren is noted for its fast-paced productions.
Combine that with a playwright who loves to write short, speedy plays
and you have a rocket waiting to go off. Bill Gale has a review. Fuddy Meers continues at 2nd Story Theatre in Warren through June 8.

WRNI’s Ronda Miller talks to upcoming graduates of the International Yacht Restoration School in Newport. Their journey and future goals are profiled.

April was another tough month for the Rhode Island real estate market.
Both sales and prices continued to fall for a 15th consecutive month.
WRNI's Flo Jonic has more.

The brain may hold the answer to healing patients who thought they were beyond help. That's according to scientists gathering this week at
Brown University. They're meeting to discuss their work creating brain
implants that do everything from moving artificial limbs to treating
mental health. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has the story of
a Rhode Island man who was the first American to use this new
technology to treat his obsessive compulsive disorder.

America's first indoor shopping mall is 180 years old and shutting down for renovations. But the arcade may not return as a landmark incubator for small business. WRNI's Rhonda Miller has more.

This week a community fundraiser was held at The Courthouse Center for the Arts in West Kingstown in order to help rebuild the house of Russell Spears. The stone mason lost his Charlestown home to fire in January. WRNI’s Ronda Miller remembers the historic house with Russell’s son, Craig.

Two RISD graduate students, Melissa Small & Sarah Sandman, will bike across the country for what they call The Gift Cycle. They will carry works of art from local artists to exchange with artists along the way. They will gift at galleries in Brooklyn, NY, St. Louis Missouri, Lawrence Kansas, Breckenridge Colorado, Missoula Montana, Eugene Oregon, Portland Oregon, and Seattle, Washington. WRNI morning edition
host talks with the artists.

Bob Seay interview about Cryptic Providence with project creator Jay Critchley. Cryptic Providence includes dance, video, fire & music at the historic North Burial Ground in Providence from a variety of artists.

WRNI’s Morning Edition host Bob Seay talks to Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, member of Senator Intelligence Committee, which released a report on the Pre-Iraq War Intelligence. Report concludes that key questions were not substantiated by Intelligence.

Twenty middle schools are participating in a federally-funded program
designed to help adolescents make good choices rather than fall into
bad habits. WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller looks at project best
at middle schools in Jamestown and Central Falls.

The State House of Representatives has approved a nearly 7 billion dollar budget that closes a record deficit without raising the income or sales tax. It took nine hours but more time was spent debating benefits for illegal immigrants than deep cuts in programs that help the poor. WRNI's Flo Jonic has the story.

A documentary film about a different type of Providence middle school,
produced by a 1995 Brown University graduate, was recently honored at the Seattle International Film Festival. As part of his senior thesis
in education,Tom Hotchner was an observer at the school, which only accepts students who are struggling academically. Despite the passage of time, he was unable to shake the memories, eventually returning with camera in hand. WRNI Education Reporter Rhonda Miller has more on the film, and the school and Morning Edition host Bob Seay interviews the filmmaker.

The Providence Parks Department relies on a unique workforce in the
summer, senior citizens. WRNI's Megan Hall talks with the program's
supervisor and participants.

For the third time this year, a Rhode Island man with mental illness
has died after a clash with the police. WRNI's health care reporter Megan
Hall has more about the death of Mark Jackson.

Rhode Island just lost 2.4 billion dollars. Yesterday the state Supreme
Court overturned the first case in the nation to rule the paint
industry should pay for the removal of lead from hundreds of thousands
of homes. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has more.

One hundred and 30 years ago today George M. Cohan was born in Providence. His name is no longer a household word but his songs are played every 4th of July. And now, a Providence couple is spearheading a drive to build a statue of him. WRNI's Flo Jonic has more on this son of Rhode Island.

Morning Edition host Bob Seay interviews Bristol native Katrina Browne about Traces of the Trade, her PBS documentary film about the history of her ancestors, the DeWolfe family, in the slave trade in Rhode Island.
The film airs July 3 on Rhode Island PBS, channel 36.

Plays that are centuries old and filled with wit can be a struggle. There’s one on now at 2nd Story Theatre in Warren. Bill Gale has a review.
“The Beaux’ Strategem” continues at 2nd Story Theatre through July 26. Bill Gale reviews the performing arts for WRNI.

Sound Session, Providence's genre-defying music festival, is 5 years old and bigger than ever. This year the festival includes a program for kids along with dozens of acts in 25 venues. WRNI's Bob Seay talks with the festival leaders and some of the kids performing at Burnside Park Thursday night.

While most students are out of school for the summer, some are getting a jump start on middle school or high school. WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller has more on these teens and a program that helps them with the challenges they face.

Immigration activists are questioning the timing of a raid in which 31 alleged illegals were arrested. The raid was conducted while some of the highest profile immigration advocates were meeting with Governor Carcieri. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports on the event, and discusses the politics behind it with WRNI Morning Edition host Bob Seay.

With Trinity Rep and Brown University now working together on a theater training program, there’s a new summertime emphasis on College Hill. This year, three plays are being presented. Bill Gale reviews the first two.

The Brown/Trinity Playwrights Rep continues through August 2nd. A third play will be presented next week. All three will be done in repertory July 30 to August 2nd. Bill Gale reviews the performing arts for WRNI.

In Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita Eva Peron has been generally seen as a hard-edged, driven women. Now a summer theater production has taken a different look at her tragic life. Bill Gale has a review.

Evita continues at Theatre-by-the-Sea, Matunuck through August 3rd. Bill Gale reviews the performing arts for WRNI.

Local political experts react to the possibility of Senator Jack Reed becoming running mate of Barak Obama. WRNI’s Flo Jonic has more.

With electric rates up nearly 22 percent, a couple of Rhode Island communities are working to harness wind power. WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller takes a look at projects at schools in Portsmouth and Barrington.

A historic Providence cemetery has fallen into disrepair and its owners say they don't have the money to fix it. WRNI's Flo Jonic has the story.

The Newport Jazz Festival is a legendary event that draws people from all over the world. One musician used to make the journey from South Africa where he operated a jazz club. He is now a Rhode Islander and still looks forward to attending the annual event. WRNI's Rhonda Miller has more on his devotion to the festival.

Providence Mayor David Cicilline is openly feuding with the City's retirement board over its decision to restore part of Frank Corrente's pension. Corrente, a one-time top aide to former Mayor Vincent "Buddy' Cianci, served a federal prison sentence for bribery and racketeering convictions as a result of the Operation Plunder Dome investigation. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports on the board's decision and reaction to it.

That's the title of an exhibit now at the Newport Art Museum featuring the work of Grosvenor, along with work by some of his many students. Grosvenor is one of Rhode Island's most respected artists and is well-known in Newport County as a teacher, art historian and community-builder. He talks with WRNI Morning Edition host Bob Seay.

As some Olympians are returning home from Beijing, there's another group of athletes that hasn't even begun to compete. The summer Paralympics- the world wide sports competition for disabled athletes, starts September 6th. And for the Paralympics teams in the sailing division, there's no better place to prepare than at this week's Clagett Regatta in Newport. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall caught up with some of the competitors.

The chairman of the board of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority is calling it quits because of what he calls "deceptive management practices". WRNI's Flo Jonic reports on the resignation of Robert Batting.

This week, over eighty children from across Rhode Island descended upon camp fuller in Wakefield. They looked like any other campers, except for the name tags they wore. The white stickers listed not only their names, but the names of loved ones who died. The children also had another name for this place. They called it Camp Brave Heart. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall was there.

German playwright Friedrich Schiller's work Don Carlos is best known as an opera. But the Gamm Theatre has gone back to the original play.

A small group of Chariho High School students have created a non-profit to help college students buy textbooks. WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller reports.

A nursing home in West Warwick swears by a Japanese healing technique that treats patients without even touching them. WRNI’s Health care reporter Megan Hall has more.

Carol Wagner lies on top of a bed with her arms to her side and her eyes closed. The buttons on her yellow shirt sparkle as she listens to Carol Hessford.

A look at what's behind a $12 million budget shortfall at the Rhode
Island Public Transit Agency. Ridership is at an all-time high, but
RIPTA says it needs to cut service by as much as 20 percent to get
spending under control. The agency began a series of hearings and
public forums on the proposed reductions this week. RIPTA says
increased fuel costs are to blame, but a WRNI investigation suggests
there are other factors contributing to the problem. WRNI's Flo Jonic
reports.

Making Connections - From Rhode Island Classrooms To China.

Seventeen Rhode Island police officers from across the state took a break from their duties this week to learn more about mental illness. WRNI’s health care reporter Megan Hall attended the first day of the crisis response seminar.

We don't see a lot of the ancient Greek theater around here. But Trinity Rep has come up with a new version of a very old, very great play. Bill Gale has a review.

The Dreams of Antigone continues at Trinity Rep through October 26.

A Three part series by WRNI's Flo Jonic

A Three part series by WRNI's Flo Jonic

A Three part series by WRNI's Flo Jonic

The Providence First Works Festival runs for a month featuring dozens of musicians and artists performing and displaying their works at various venues throughout the city.

Rhode Island School of Design opens its new museum at the Chace Center with a major exhibition by glass artist Dale Chihuly.

 In a coincidence of timing, recent state tests show Rhode Island students doing poorly in science - and the National Science Foundation is giving the state a $12.5 million grant for teacher training and a state-of-the art science program. WRNI education reporter Rhonda Miller has more on the project for middle and high schools.

The largest bailout plan in US history was in part made possible by a
bill Rhode Island mental health advocates have supported for over
fifteen years. WRNI’s health care reporter Megan Hall has more on the
other historic law passed by Congress last week.

Caretakers of St. Ann Arts & Cultural Center, a former Roman Catholic Church in Woonsocket, want to protect their historic art from the winter cold.

Have something you want to talk about? A new cable access show lets Rhode Islanders say whatever they want, as long as they leave a message.

Woonsocket born & bred Dave McKenna was considered by many to be
one of the best American jazz pianists of the last half century. He
died last weekend at the age of 78. WRNI arts critic Bill Gale reflects
on McKenna, the man and his music. 

Confused about where the candidates stand on health care? You're not alone. WRNI's Megan Hall spoke to some Rhode Islanders about John McCain and Barack Obama's plans.

Next Tuesday's ballot contains two questions that would authorize the state to borrow millions of dollars. Neither question faces any formal opposition. They are profiled in two reports by Flo Jonic and Megan Hall.

Listen to Question #1

Listen to Question #2

Next Tuesday's ballot contains two questions that would authorize the state to borrow millions of dollars. Neither question faces any formal opposition. They are profiled in two reports by Flo Jonic and Megan Hall.

Listen to Question #1

Listen to Question #2

As Election Day draws near and Rhode Island's deficit balloons to 58
million dollars, will either presidential candidate's approach to
public education make a difference in the Ocean State? WRNI's education
reporter Rhonda Miller takes a look at the main differences between
Senators John McCain and Barack Obama.

The popular "Up Close on Hope" series presents dance in Festival Ballet's studios on Hope Street in Providence. This fall's series has changed the focus a bit. Bill Gale has a review.

Oscar Wilde's comedy of manners and morals, "An Ideal Husband" was a moderate success in London in 1895. Today, it is seen a plea for tolerance in a harsh world. Pawtucket's Gamm Theatre is giving it a new look. Bill Gale has a review.

Kristallnacht Remembered After 70 Years

This coming Sunday people of all faiths will gather at the Veteran's Memorial Auditorium to commemorate the 70^th anniversary of ‘Kristallnacht.'

After visiting hours are over and the day staff has gone home, some patients at Hasbro children's hospital wait for one last guest before they go to sleep.

As part of WRNI's continuing series on the recession, this report focuses on hunger. The Rhode Island Community Food Bank is reporting a spike in demand as prices and unemployment rise. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports.

Rhode Island’s unemployment rate jumped for a 10th straight month in October. It now stands at 9.3 percent - half a percent higher than September and the highest in 25 years. WRNI’s Flo Jonic introduces us to some of the faces behind the statistics.

The so-called "well made" play is pretty much seen as hopelessly out of date in today's theater world. But every now and then an oldie like this one pops up, and the result can be compelling drama. Bill Gale reviews "the Miracle Worker" at 2nd Story Theatre in Warren.

Teresa Grenier has been living without income since she developed a brain tumor and had to quit her job. That was about two years ago. She's still waiting to hear if she qualifies for disability benefits.

WRNI's Megan Hall reports that's not unusual.

Teresa Grenier has been living without income since she developed a brain tumor and had to quit her job. That was about two years ago. She's still waiting to hear if she qualifies for disability benefits.

As a Brown University Master's student, Playwright Adam Bock studied under Paula Vogel. These days, he's having considerable success on his own. His latest play, The Receptionist, is now at the Trinity Repertory Company. Bill Gale, performing arts critic for WRNI, has a review.

Web special: Listen to Bill Gale's uncut interview with Oskar Eustis.

WRNI arts critic Bill Gale catches up with former Trinity Repertory Artistic Director Oskar Eustis at his new home, the Public Theater in New York City.

The former Trinity Repertory artistic director is now well into his fourth season at New York's Public Theater, generally considered the country's top non-profit house. So how is he doing?

Many of us consider ourselves collectors. But a Cranston couple has taken the idea to a whole new level with their collection of ukeleles.

Rhode Island is in mourning for a beloved public servant. Retired U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell died New Year's day after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 90. WRNI's Flo Jonic looks back on his life and legacy.

Some of the most prominent politicians in the country traveled to Newport yesterday for the funeral of retired Senator Claiborne Pell. Pell, who represented Rhode Island for 36 years, died New Year's Day of Parkinson's disease at the age of 90. 

Cities, towns and public employees would take the biggest hits under a budget balancing plan unveiled by Governor Carcieri in a rare televised address.

At a public hearing this morning, Rhode Islanders will have a chance to weigh in on a plan to dramatically alter programs for the state's poor, elderly and disabled. 

A public hearing on a plan that would overhaul the state's Medicaid program in exchange for a federal spending cap continues this afternoon. According to WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall, the first day of testimony was lively. 

The State Department of Labor and Training says the unemployment insurance fund will run out by April unless it can borrow from another state fund.

When Attorney General Patrick Lynch rented the Providence Performing Arts Center for an inaugural viewing party he had no idea how many people would show up. 

In these difficult times, the Gamm Theatre looks back to the Great Depression. Clifford Odets' play "Awake and Sing" took on the era, the American immigrant experience, and love in many forms. Bill Gale has review.

A survey of 1,700 high school students suggests teachers are not performing well. The Providence teachers' union is questioning the validity of the survey. WRNI's Flo Jonic has our story.

Rhode Island lawmakers are pleading with lawmakers to reject a $55 million cut in state aid proposed by Governor Carcieri.  The cut is aimed at closing a $357 million shortfall in the current fiscal year.  WRNI's Flo Jonic reports from the Statehouse.

Rhode Island's unemployment rate continued its relentless march upward in December.  It's now ten percent, the highest level in more than 30 years.  WRNI's Flo Jonic with one economist's reaction.

Warren's 2^nd story theater had planned to stage Arthur Miller's tragedy "Death of a Salesman" this winter. But in these difficult times, the theater chose to go with a 1920's comedy instead. Bill Gale has a review.

In a state long run by men with names like Cicilline and Carcieri, a breakthrough. Cranston republican Allan Fung took office last month as Rhode Island's first Asian-American mayor. For WRNI, David Scharfenberg reports.

Providence Mayor David Cicilline says he does not believe the circumstances surrounding the firing of his tax collector will affect his political future. But as WRNI's Flo Jonic reports the public is not entirely buying his explanation for the dismissal of Robert Ceprano.

Over the past week, volunteers throughout the state have been working to answer a difficult question- how many people are homeless in Rhode Island?  WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall tagged along with one of the counters and filed this report. 

Yesterday President Obama signed a bill that could allow over four million uninsured children to receive health care.  WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has more on what the State Children's Health Insurance Program could mean for Rhode Island.

Imagine losing a loved one and having to wait four weeks to claim the body. That happened not too long ago to a Providence man and now he's on a mission to change state law. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports.

February is Black history month. At the Trinity Repertory company they are performing the African American family drama "Raisin in the Sun".  Bill Gale has a review.

The Obama stimulus plan promises to ease a disastrous budget situation in Rhode Island public schools, but will it also derail efforts for needed reform?

The ACLU has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the family of a Chinese immigrant who died in federal custody at the Wyatt Detention Center in Central Falls.  The suit claims 34 year old Jason Ng died as a result of negligence when his late stage liver cancer went undiagnosed until a few days before his death. WRNI's Flo Jonic has the story.

In an economic climate where most businesses are shrinking, there's at least one organization in the ocean state that can't keep up with demand and plans on expanding- The Rhode Island Free Clinic. 

In an economic climate where most businesses are shrinking, there's at least one organization in the ocean state that can't keep up with demand and plans on expanding- the Rhode Island Free Clinic.

As we celebrate the bicentennial of President Abraham Lincoln's birth, it's natural to wonder whether he was ever in Rhode Island and what he may have thought of the state. WRNI's Flo Jonic wondered so we asked her to investigate.

Rhode Island is the lone New England state that has no legal recognition of same sex relationships - as domestic partnerships or marriage.

Rhode Island high schools are finding it difficult to improve student performance on state Math tests, especially in urban districts. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison has more.

Providence Mayor David Cicilline has ambitious plans to reinvigorate the city's struggling economy. He unveiled them Tuesday night during his sixth annual state of the city address. WRNI political correspondent Ian Donnis was there.

Step into Providence's Festival Ballet on a Saturday morning. As young ballerinas practice their plies, there's another very different class taking place down the hall. 

Johnston teachers have reversed course and agreed to participate in a federally-funded summer science program. Parents and community leaders were outraged when they learned teachers might not participate.

Some ten thousand Liberian natives, including many in Rhode Island, will be deported March 31st unless President Barack Obama grants them an extension.

For many voters in Rhode Island, finding the polling place is the least
of their worries. In the tight democratic presidential race, a large
block of Rhode Island voters still must decide which candidate to back.
WRNI's Rhonda Miller talked with some of the people courting the
un-decided, and with some of those being courted.

Bill Gale reviews the Trinity Repertory Company's production of David Hare's play. "The Secret Rapture" runs through March 29.

March 1st was the deadline for Rhode Island school districts to notify teachers if they're slated for layoffs this spring. The pink slips lead to a ripple of personnel changes as WRNI's Elisabeth Harrison reports.

At 10.3 percent, Rhode Island's unemployment rate continues to rank as one of the worst in the nation. WRNI's Megan Hall explores how the state got into this mess with a look at one person behind the numbers.

Last year's Wall Street meltdown devastated the pension fund for teachers and state workers in Rhode Island. And unless state leaders take action, pension costs will consume a steadily larger amount of the tax dollars used to operate the state. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis has more.

A set of proposed regulations governing where and how often Rhode Island fisherman can fish could take effect on May 1^st.  Regulators say the rules are necessary to protect fish but fishermen say they'll cripple their industry.  WRNI's Megan Hall reports

Yesterday, Governor Carcieri unveiled plans to close the current budget deficit and an even bigger one for the next fiscal year. He hopes to forge ahead with pension reform and changes to Rhode Island's tax structure.  WRNI's Political reporter Ian Donnis has the details.

Governor Carcieri's 2010 budget assumes the state will save almost fifty million dollars by overhauling its programs for the poor, disabled, and elderly.  One major reform aims to make it easier for the elderly and disabled to receive the care they need outside of an institution.  WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall takes a look at the people who will be doing that work- home health care providers.

The YMCA might be best known for weight lifting, swimming, and treadmills, but the Y on the east side of Providence is now offering a less traditional work out. If you put your ear up to the door, you'll hear the sounds of laughter

WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has more.

Elected Republicans are relatively rare in Rhode Island. Yet in Warwick, Scott Avedisian has handily won reelection five times since he became mayor in 2000. More recently, Avedisian gained budget savings and concessions from city unions with far less of the rancor seen in some other local communities. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis explores how Warwick has had some success in moving past partisan politics.

Nationwide, schools are reporting an increase in students qualifying for subsidized lunch and breakfast programs. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison visited a school in Pawtucket, where educators are concerned that a small but growing number of students are going hungry.

Rhode Island is home to the only parrot sanctuary in New England.  It's called ‘Foster Parrots'.  It's located in an old poultry farm in Hopkinton and, as WRNI's Flo Jonic found out, it's one noisy place. 

Sen. Teresa Paiva Weed of Newport is president of the Rhode Island Senate and the first woman to hold a top leadership position in the Rhode Island General Assembly. WRNI political analyst Scott MacKay caught up with Senator Paiva Weed between meetings at the State House.

Despite an overall increase in graduation rates, urban students in Rhode Island are still three times more likely to dropout than their suburban counterparts. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison looks at why more than 2,000 teenagers in the class of 2008 slipped through the cracks of the public school system.

Psychologists around the state are reporting a spike in business from people who are experiencing severe depression for the first time. In most cases the despondency is the direct result of the loss of a job or home. Mental health experts call it "situational depression" and say it's perfectly normal. But, as WRNI's Flo Jonic reports, that doesn't make it any easier to deal with.

It took seven hours and tempers flared as the Rhode Island House last night passed a revised $7.2 billion budget for the current fiscal year. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis covered the marathon session.

In December, Governor Carcieri formed a panel to evaluate the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation. The advisory group's findings will be released later this month, with the hope of bolstering the local economy.

But as WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis describes, the Economic Development Corporation can't get the job done by itself.

The early 1960s were a period of robust highway construction in the United States.  The interstate highway system- the largest public works project in the nation's history- was connecting American cities, often times cutting right through them.

This week, the Rhode Island health department released its first survey of which doctors use computers and which still use paper files to keep track of patient data. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall reports who has and who hasn't taken on the new technology might be surprising.

Scott MacKay talks to Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts about the 2010 governor's race, the Rhode Island economy and gay marriage.

The latest book by Providence Journal sports columnist Bill Reynolds, '78: The Boston Red Sox, a Historic Game, and a Divided City, describes how a memorable single-game playoff took place during the winding down of Boston's busing desegregation crisis. Reynolds recently spoke with WRNI's Ian Donnis about the book.

Employment experts see a silver lining in The Ocean State's economic crisis - a chance to upgrade the skills of Rhode Island workers. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison spoke to two students trying to do exactly that. Now they face graduation and a very tough job market.

Brown University professor Hilary Silver talks with Bob Seay about her documentary film "Southside: The Fall and Rise of an Inner-City Neighborhood." The 55-minute film explores the transformation of South Providence from a notorious site of urban blight to a multicultural community with blocks of vitality.

An alternative high school in Providence is going beyond the high school diploma to try and solve a nation-wide problem: how to help more minority students graduate from college. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison takes a look at College Unbound, the latest venture from the Met charter school.

The Wyatt Detention Center is under new management. The board of directors has fired Avcorr Management and its director, Anthony Ventetuolo. WRNI's Flo Jonic has our story.

It seems unlikely that a rarely performed German Play from the 1890's would be material for a Broadway hit. But "Spring Awakening" was just that in 2007. And the show is now on stage at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Bill Gale has a review.

Spring Awakening continues at the Providence Performing Arts center through Sunday.

World premieres generally happen in big towns like New York. But this weekend a new contemporary ballet by choreographer Viktor Plotnikov is being presented by Festival Ballet Providence. Bill Gale has the story.

The bloodshed on Providence’s south side has subsided since a pair of gang-related shootings last month, including one in which a teenager was killed at a birthday party. But violent crime typically increases in American cities during warmer weather – what some youth workers call “the killing season.” WRNI’s Ian Donnis reports on how police and others are actively trying to prevent further shootings in Rhode Island’s capital.

As Rhode Island monitors three possible cases of swine flu, WRNI's Elisabeth Harrison takes the pulse of residents in North Kingstown. The seaside enclave is home to the first probable case in Rhode Island, which was detected Wednesday and could be confirmed by Friday.

Rhode Island has only three probable cases of the swine flu that's spreading across the world, but state officials predict that number will rise in the coming weeks.  WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has more on Rhode Island's plans for what may happen next. 

Imagine being 23 years old, already a veteran of the Providence rock music scene and poised to make it big nationally. That's exactly where John McCauley III of Providence and his band Deer Tick find themselves at this moment.  At the South by Southwest music festival in Austin, Rolling Stone magazine picked Deer Tick as the breakout band of the event. WRNI's Bob Seay talks with McCauley about the band and their Providence roots.

WRNI's Scott MacKay talks with outgoing president of the University of Rhode Island Robert Carothers who is retiring after 18 years. Carothers will deliver the commencement speech at URI's graduation ceremony Sunday, May 17^th.

WRNI's performing arts critic Bill Gale reviews "The Scarlet letter" at the Gamm theater in Pawtucket through June 7^th.

Central Falls High School is trying a new approach to discipline. Since January, the principal has suspended suspensions as part of an effort to improve the school. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison visited the high school to see whether or not there is order in the class rooms without this time tested tool to deal with kids who get out of line.

Latinos are considered the largest single ethnic group in Central Falls. Yet despite the size of this community, the city's Latinos remain underrepresented in municipal jobs and elective office. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis examines why this large population group has yet to get its piece of the political pie.

The foreclosure crisis has hit Rhode Island hard. Last year nine out of one thousand properties were taken back by lenders - foreclosure rates far higher than the neighboring states of Connecticut and Massachusetts. And no Rhode Island community has been hit harder by the real estate meltdown than Central Falls.

As we continue our series on the One Square Mile city, WRNI's Flo Jonic examines the foreclosure issue and what Central Falls officials are doing about it.

In the hushed reverence of a historic Central Falls Church on Mother's Day, WRNI's Scott MacKay found that everything old is new again as immigrants from Latin America worship in the same pews where generations of European and Canadian immigrants knelt in prayer.

Like all cities and towns, Central Falls has changed with the times. 
Factories that once hummed with activity are now silent and empty. 
Trolleys that once ran so often a car was unnecessary have
disappeared.  But there is one constant.  Central Falls is now, and
always has been, a city of immigrants.  This morning we begin a 14-part
series we call "One Square Mile." Wrni's Flo Jonic begins with an
overview.

Central Falls may be the smallest city in the smallest state in the country, but its history is a tapestry of all that has made the United States the nation it is: the marginalization of Native Americans, the industry that catapulted the country to world power status and the waves of immigrants in search of a better life. As we continue our series on the one square mile city, WRNI's Flo Jonic explores the events that made Central Falls what it is today.

Many of the Latino immigrants in Central Falls suffered trauma before
they arrived here - be it conflicts in their home countries or
challenges crossing the border. But if they're looking for
professional help, it's hard to find. In that one square mile there's
not a single psychiatrist that speaks their language. WRNI's health
care reporter Megan Hall has more on mental health care in the city's
Latino community.

Facing bankruptcy in the early 1990's, the city of Central Falls asked the state to take over its school system. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison takes a look at the only school district in Rhode Island funded entirely by the state.

A little over a year ago the Wyatt detention center in Central Falls proudly announced that it had received a 99.7 percent rating by the American Correctional Association Commission on Accreditation, placing it in the top 17 percent of American penal institutions for standards that protect both the inmates and the public. Today, it's on the brink of financial collapse over fallout from its treatment of a prisoner who died of cancer that went undiagnosed until a few days before his death: a story that made national headlines.

Although Central Falls has been down on its economic luck, with about 15% or over 8,000 people currently unemployed according to the State Department of Labor, many of the storefronts along Broad and Dexter streets are occupied.  Like generations of immigrants before them, today's mostly latino population is carving out a living by employing themselves.  WRNI'S Rita Cidre explores the spirit of entrepreneurship that keeps people coming back to Central Falls.

Central Falls has a reputation for being a tough neighborhood with a notoriously under-performing school district. So it may come as a surprise to hear that it's also home to more than one state-champion chess team. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison has our story.

The teen pregnancy rate in central falls is the highest in Rhode Island.  Almost sixty out of every thousand girls age 15-17 get pregnant each year.  That's three times the state average of nineteen girls out of every thousand.  WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall profiles some of the people behind the numbers.

Central Falls is best known as a magnet for Roman Catholic Immigrants. But over the years it was also home to an enclave of Protestants who traced their ancestry to the British Isles. One of the most notable of this group is Rhode Island's 72nd governor, Lincoln Almond. Today, as we continue our `One Square Mile' series, WRNI political analyst Scott MacKay strolls the streets of Central Falls with the former governor, who recalls fondly his boyhood in Rhode Island's smallest city.

Food may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Central Falls. But the smallest state's smallest city has a vibrant culinary culture that draws customers from near and far. WRNI's Ian Donnis gets a taste of what's behind the flavors of Central Falls.

As the Rhode Island School of Design prepares for graduation this weekend, Providence is taking steps to increase the amount of money it and other universities pay for city services. Providence is facing a $17 million deficit this year and nearly $50 million next year. WRNI Education Reporter Elisabeth Harrison looks at how the search for revenue may be affecting its relationship with private colleges.

More than 80 percent of Rhode Island public schools are making good progress toward improving student achievement. That according to state officials, who have released the 2009 school classifications. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison was at DelSesto Middle School in Providence Wednesday for the announcement.

Charles Reed, the architect of Washington State's long term care overhaul and chairman of AARP's long term care committee talks with Bob Seay about lessons learned reforming long term health care in Washington state as Rhode Island prepares to revamp its Medicaid system.

Almost half of the children in Providence grow up in poverty. David Cartagena grew up poor in Rhode Island's capital, and became a criminal and gang member. But that's not how he'll be remembered. WRNI's Ian Donnis reports on how Cartagena changed not just his own life, but many of those with whom he came into contact.

The Low Anthem is another Providence based band drawing fans and critical acclaim from beyond the city limits. Bob Seay talks with the group about their music.

Jocie Adams, Ben Knox Miller and Jeffrey Prystowsky comprise The Low Anthem - one of the musical groups emerging from Providence that's attracting fans and critical acclaim well beyond the city limits with albums like "What the Crow Brings" and "Oh My God, Charlie Darwin". They recently sat down with Bob Seay to talk about their music. 

Close to 200 hundred mayors from around the country are in Providence this weekend for the 77th annual convention of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.  But the major attraction, Vice President Joe Biden and dozens of Obama administration officials, will not be here. They're boycotting the event because they don't want to cross a Providence firefighters picket line. 

Bill Gale reviews "Menopause the Musical" now playing at Trinity Rep.

Since coming on the job in 2003, Providence Police Chief Dean Esserman has been credited with helping to turn around what had been a troubled police department. Yet the chief's critics, mostly within the department, have taken issue with what they call his sometimes confrontational and mercurial management style.

A sampling of the high school valedictory addresses of 2009, assembled by WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison.

As lawmakers consider changing the Caruolo Act, a controversial state law that allows school districts to sue their city or town for more funding, WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison takes a look at its impact in Rhode Island.

It really wouldn't be full summer around here if there was not a musical on at Theatre-by-the-Sea in Matunuck. Right now, the barn theater is doing a show from the old days. Bill Gale has a review.

"Crazy for You" continues at Theatre-by-the-Sea through July 11. Bill Gale reviews the performing arts for WRNI.

The social messaging service Twitter has figured prominently during recent unrest in Iran. Activists have used short Twitter messages to share information about protests and to counter the government's official statements. Closer to home, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, and other forms of new media are also remaking American politics. But can they bring change to the tradition-bound Rhode Island state house? WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis describes the outlook.

With an unemployment rate of over 12 percent, that's 68,500 people, it's probable that every Rhode Islander knows someone who's out of work. Today we begin a three part series introducing you to some of them.  You may not know these people but their stories are emblematic of the state's unemployment crisis, which is the third highest in the nation and the worst in more than 30 years.  We begin in North Kingstown, a community where the average family earns $70,000. It's also home to a civil engineer whose income has fallen below the average as a result of a recent job loss.

Imagine being out of work, out of unemployment benefits, homeless and with a wife and eight month old baby to support. That was the situation a Westerly family found itself in this spring until a social service agency put a roof over their heads.

In the last 11 years, surgeons in Rhode Island have operated on the wrong site of a patient's body 11 times. According to the Joint Commission, the national body that accredits and certifies hospitals, that's a fraction of the over 100 wrong-site surgeries that take place each year across the country.

We conclude our series on Rhode Island's unemployed with the profile of a man who has been jobless so long he's living in a tent. It's a consequence of unemployment that is more common than you might expect. WRNI's Flo Jonic has our story.

Rhode Island's highest court has ruled that lawmakers cannot be prosecuted for ethics violations based on their voting records. The ruling guts a case against former Senate president William Irons, who was accused of conflict of interest for voting against the so-called "Pharmacy Freedom of Choice" bill while collecting large fees from health insurance companies. WRNI's Flo Jonic has more.

When doctors at Hasbro Children's Hospital operated on the wrong side of a child's mouth in May, it was one more reminder that patients can sometimes leave the hospital with more problems than when they entered. But the causes of those problems are not always as obvious as surgery performed on the wrong part of the body.

This week, Rhode Islanders learned of another medical error when a surgeon at Miriam Hospital put anesthesia in the wrong eye of a patient. But smaller, less dramatic mistakes often go unnoticed and happen even more frequently. Last year, Rhode Island hospitals reported over three hundred mistakes to the department of health. And for every error, there's the trauma that comes with it- for the patient, as well as the doctor involved.

The American newspaper industry remains gripped by a cycle of decline. Readers and advertisers continue to move to the internet, but web-based advertising is less profitable than the old print advertising. This upheaval is sparking some new approaches, including the emergence of web-only newspapers entirely dedicated to covering much smaller communities. WRNI's Ian Donnis examines what this means for Rhode Islanders.

Few issues have provoked debate in Rhode Island and drawn the attention of those across the nation as has the proposal to strip the word "plantations" from the Ocean State's official name.

The Newport Music Festival continues in the mansions of The-City-by-Sea  through July 26^th. With 57-concerts performed by 52 musicians from 24 countries it is a massive undertaking that needs lots of volunteers, like a page turner, for instance. Bill Gale has the story.

The Rhode Island Community Food Bank says it distributed more food in the year ending June 30th than at any time in its 27-year history. But as WRNI's Flo Jonic reports, its banner year was more than offset by an increase in need.

Another legislative session is nearing an end with no vote likely on a funding formula for Rhode Island schools. Formulas are used in every other state to determine how much money to give each district. Rhode Island relies instead on legislative appropriation. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison looks at the consequences of keeping that system in place.

Perhaps because they are headquartered amid the summer throngs in Newport, Island Moving Company makes a habit of performing every July, a time when most dance companies lie fallow. This year their program is both bold and amusing. Bill Gale has the review.

A fatal boating incident that came to symbolize the problem of teenage drinking in Barrington has come to an end, with the sentencing of Ryan Greenberg. Prosecutors say Greenberg deliberately mowed down a friend with a power boat after a alcohol-fueled argument.  In handing down the sentence, a Providence Judge had unusually harsh words for Greenberg's parents and the Barrington police department. WRNI's Flo Jonic has our story.

An innovative summer program gives middle school students an introduction to the techniques of crime scene investigation or, as the popular CBS series is entitled, "CSI." WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison is on the case in Providence.

Summer school...for generations of Americans those two words have provoked a cascade of groans. Summer school is often required for poorly performing students at the expense of camp or other warm weather adventures. But a Providence program has been involving district teachers and students in a new kind of summer experience

If a new state regulation works, health insurance policies in Rhode Island will read less like legal documents and more like Reader's Digest.  WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has more.

Last night wrapped up the 50^th anniversary of the Newport Folk Festival.  WRNI's Megan Hall was there all weekend.

Hospital mergers seem to be in the air these days in Rhode Island. Roger Williams and St. Joseph's hospitals are moving closer to becoming one system. Lifespan and Care New England hospitals resubmitted a merger application last month, and Rhode Island Hospital and Memorial may consolidate as well. 

Beach visits, music festivals, and Del's lemonade: it's summer in the Ocean State. But in addition to these traditions, many Rhode Islanders are enjoying fresh produce from local farmer's markets during our short but illustrious warm season. WRNI's Reza Clifton has the story.

The Lieutenant Governor's office is sometimes viewed as an unnecessary perch from which officeholders plan their future campaigns. So when Elizabeth Roberts announced in July that she will seek re-election next year, rather than running for Governor, it raised fresh questions about the value of the office. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis examines whether Rhode Island really needs a Lieutenant Governor.

Mike Birbiglia may not be a household name, but the young Boston-born comedian's star is rising. He has made several appearances on Comedy Central, had a successful one-man show off-Broadway, "Sleepwalk with Me," and has two DVDs to his credit as well as being a regular on This American Life.

Every summer theater tries to go out with a winner. This year Theatre-by-the-Sea in Matunuck has chosen "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels."  Bill Gale has the review.

Congressman Jim Langevin held a town hall meeting in Warwick this week to hear concerns about changes to the nation's health care system. WRNI Health Care Reporter Megan Hall fact checks some of the questions and answers.

Congressman Patrick Kennedy has spent much of the summer dealing with family issues, especially his father's terminal brain cancer. But Kennedy tells WRNI that he will hold a public forum on health care early next month and talks about health care issues and his father's illness with WRNI political analyst Scott MacKay.

Providence officials are expected to unveil details of a plan next month to turn part of downtown into a hub for biotechnology and small start-up companies. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison looks at a shift at colleges and universities that may help strengthen the "knowledge economy" in Rhode Island.

Lately, the debate over the federal government's health care overhaul has centered on the content of fiery town hall meetings where opponents and supporters shout at, boo, and applaud members of congress. WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall takes a step away from the drama to hear what some of the leaders in Rhode Island's health care community think about the proposals.

WRNI's Bob Seay speaks with Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed about the government's health care overhaul.

WRNI political analyst Scott MacKay covered Senator Edward Kennedy for more than three decades. He reflects on the senator's legacy in this commentary:

When Ted Kennedy was nine years old his parents sent him to Portsmouth Priory, a Catholic boarding school on Aquidneck Island now known as Portsmouth Abbey.  Kennedy hated it but fortunately he didn't hold it against Rhode Island. He sent his son, Patrick, to  Providence College and campaigned hard as Patrick was elected first to the Rhode Island General Assembly, then to Congress. 

The senator leaves legions of friends and admirers in the Ocean State. WRNI reporter Flo Jonic spoke to some of them.

WRNI's Health Care Reporter Megan Hall reports on concerns that health care providers in Rhode Island have about reform and Bob Seay interviews Senator Jack Reed about those concerns and the prospects of passage of a health care overhaul bill:

Teachers around the state are preparing for the start of school, but for a few, it will be their very first time in a real classroom. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison visited the Rhode Island Teaching Fellows, a new state-sponsored program that puts teachers into the classroom after just six weeks of training.

Providence teachers are not happy with a new interview-based hiring system, which the district implemented in six schools over the summer. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison has more on the growing controversy.

University of Rhode Island President David Dooley speaks with WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison about encouraging business development and the challenges of running a major research institution with less than 10% of its funding from the state.

On Monday, Women and Infants Hospital will celebrate the opening of its new center for premature babies. The over 76 million dollar building will feature 70 private rooms for preemies and their families, making it the largest center of its kind in the country.

Shakespeare's comedies can often be more difficult to do than his tragedies. But the Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre has done well with one of the Bard's better comedic  works. Bill Gale has the review.

The best American musicals, such as "South Pacific" or "La Cage aux Folles" make you laugh, cry, and even think. That can be the case with  "Cabaret" now at the Trinity Repertory Company. Bill Gale has a review.

After years of effort, Rhode Island's General Assembly is moving closer to passing legislation that would outlaw indoor prostitution.  Rhode Island, along with Nevada, are the only states that sanction indoor prostitution.  But opponents say it's time to shut down what has become a growing indoor sex-for-sale industry.  WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis explores the debate - and what's at stake for the state.

Providence Mayor David Cicilline is adopting a zero-tolerance policy toward tent communities for the homeless. His hard line comes as lawyers for the city go to housing court today in an attempt to evict about 17 people from an encampment on Westminster Street. WRNI's Flo Jonic has a preview.

For the next two days, senior officials from the Obama administration will be in Providence to hear from residents and experts in Rhode Island about how best to manage the nation's oceans and coastlines.  

Rhode Island State representative John Loughlin the Republican who plans to challenge Congressman Patrick Kennedy in 2010 did something last night that Kennedy hasn't done: he held a public meeting on health care reform and WRNI's Health care reporter Megan Hall was there.

Earlier this week, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that roughly 12 percent of Rhode Islanders were living in poverty last year --- statistically unchanged from 2007.  The only exception was southern Rhode Island, where the poverty rate jumped from five to eight percent.  Yesterday, agencies that serve the poor came together to offer their services at the Westerly Armory. 

There may be signs that the recession is coming to an end, but many states are still struggling with budget gaps and high unemployment rates. That's especially true in Rhode Island, where a 68-million dollar budget deficit has prompted the governor to consider a government shut down and layoff state employees - unless they accept a pay cut and a delay in their pay-raises.  

It took 163 games, and 12 innings, but the Minnesota Twins are champions of the American League Central Division.  In a one-game play-off last night the Twins defeated the Detroit Tigers 6 to 5 in extra innings, and move on to face the New York Yankees today in the first round of post-season competition.

One-person plays are often criticized because of their intense focus on, well, just one person. But the play "I Am My Own Wife", now on the stage in Warren presents dozens of characters -- all played by one fine actor.  Bill Gale has our review.

As President Obama considers whether to send more troops to Afghanistan, he's confronting a split among his key advisors.  His top military people, including General Stanley McChrystal in Afghanistan, say more troops are needed if the 8-year-old war is to succeed.  But others, including Vice President Joe Biden and former Secretary of State Colin Powell, are skeptical about deploying more troops.

Educators gathered in Providence with a singular focus: cutting the state's 16-percent dropout rate. WRNI's Elisabeth Harrison reports educators, state officials and students exchanged ideas about which strategies can help keep kids in school.

The U.S. Court of Appeals in Boston heard arguments this week about a Rhode Island racial profiling case.  The Rhode Island ACLU says state troopers illegally detained a van-load of Guatemalans after a routine traffic stop more than three years ago.  The lawsuit alleges that state police violated Rhode Island's Racial Profiling Prevention Act.  

By: Bob Seay

Herreshoff is a famous Newport boat designer, who talks to Bob about his famous sailing family, the history of sailing, and the America's Cup in Newport.

By: Flo Jonic

Our general assignment reporter will kick off the series with an overview of this 370-year old city. You'll learn about the architecture that draws thousands of tourists, the city's high poverty rate, and the city's biggest problem: parking.

Before Newport was a tourist Mecca, it was a Navy Town. The theme of a city re-inventing itself is at the heart of our One Square Mile series this week. It's also at the heart of this essay from WRNI's political analyst, Scott MacKay--who has followed Newport's transformation for the past three decades.

In 2006, the Newport housing authority discovered that close to a third of its units contained someone who suffered from asthma, sometimes so severe that it sent them to the emergency room. Since then, administrators has been working to reduce the problem – removing dust and mold from the units, and connecting residents with preventive health care.

The final step in the housing authority’s asthma control program is the most controversial: to make Newport the first city in Rhode Island to ban smoking inside all public housing units. WRNI’s health care reporter Megan Hall has the story.

By: Ian Donnis

Aquidneck Island is comprised of Newport and two other towns. But in a reflection of how little Rhode Island struggles with efforts to promote government efficiency and regionalization, a vision to create an island-wide approach to handling household sewage has proven vitrolic.

Newport's health care workers are feeling the effects of tough economic times. For some time, we've been hearing that nurses are in short supply in the United States, and Rhode Island is no exception. But the recession has changed that. 

By: Flo Jonic

WRNI's reporter Flo Jonic investigates the lives of the servants who worked in the Bellevue Avenue mansions. The conditions under which they worked will make even a job you hate sound great.

Most of the servants who worked in Newport's mansions were Irish - many of whom lived in the city's old 5th ward. The neighborhood eventually became Newport's political springboard for generations that would follow. The 5th ward has changed over the years, but as WRNI's Scott MacKay reports, the old neighborhood is full of history and memories.

Newport may be known as a tourist destination, famous for its large mansions and yachts. But it's also home to a large working class population,  and like many cities, to a growing number of homeless. That poses a big challenge for the city's schools, which last year saw a significant increase in one of its neediest populations: homeless children.

By: Scott MacKay

The difficult economy means more demands on social service agencies in Newport. WRNI's Scott MacKay reports that the Seaman's Church Institute, which has been helping those in need for the past ninety years, is busier than ever these days.

Steven Dietz is a prolific playwright with dozens of productions to his credit. But, for some reason, he's not been done much on the East Coast. Now, Midwesterner Curt Columbus brings him to Trinity Rep, and that's a very good thing. Bill Gale has the review.

By: Megan Hall

If you live in Newport, it's likely that you live on Broadway, or close to Broadway, or at least know someone who does. The street passes through a large section of the city's residential area – running past the Newport Hospital, the police station, and city hall. Broadway is a major thoroughfare, but it's not the best place to take a walk. The street is wide, the sidewalks are uneven, and the lighting is poor.

WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall has this story on the city's attempt to transform one of Newport central roadways.

By: Bob Seay

Founder George Wein personally stepped in to keep the Newport summer folks and jazz festivals going this year, but what about the future of these iconic events? Bob Seay reports.

By: Ian Donnis

How is it that one seaside city has three women in prominent elected positions, led by Senate president Teresa Paiva-Weed, when the number of women in high public office has declined since the 1980s?

Listen to a Newport Town Meeting, "Reinvention & Renewal," a panel discussion about Newport's journey from Naval town to thriving tourist destination, moderated by WRNI News Director and former NPR News correspondent Anthony Brooks. This program was recorded live Thursday, October 22nd at the Jane Pickens Theatre and Event Center in Newport and originally broadcast on October 23.

"Romeo and Juliet" is one of Shakespeare's most produced works. It's also one of the hardest to do well. In Pawtucket, the Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre has taken on the challenge. Bill Gale reviews.

Is the recession over?  According to the Federal government, the U.S. economy grew at a 3.5 % annual rate in the third quarter of this year, ending a full year of decline.  But in Rhode Island, there is little sign of an economic recovery. The recession is continuing to take a big toll on the nation's smallest state - which historically is the first in and last out of a recession.  As WRNI's Flo Jonic reports, history seems to be repeating itself. 

The death earlier this week of a twelve year old girl with swine flu has added new urgency to efforts to deliver the H1N1 vaccine. School vaccine clinics begin on Monday at ten schools across Rhode Island. 

As Rhode Island struggles through the worst economic slump since the Great Depression, one of its biggest challenges is to convince smart, college-educated young people to put down roots and stay in the Ocean State after they graduate. Each spring, too many graduates from local colleges collect their degrees and move away, resulting in a serious brain drain. 

This week, the ocean state saw two more deaths due to the H1N1 virus- a twelve year old girl, and a middle aged woman with underlying medical conditions. The news is adding pressure to an already difficult situation- a flu that is spreading rapidly and a shortage of the vaccine too. 

Law enforcement officials are among those welcoming Rhode Island's new prostitution law. They say the law signed last week by Governor Carcieri gives them the tools necessary to fight sexual exploitation. Yet despite the new law, WRNI's political reporter, Ian Donnis, reports that the debate about criminalizing prostitution continues.

Law enforcement officials are among those welcoming Rhode Island's new prostitution law. They say the law signed last week by Governor Carcieri gives them the tools necessary to fight sexual exploitation. Yet, despite the new law, WRNI's political reporter, Ian Donnis, reports the debate about criminalizing prostitution continues.

Author and frequent "This American Life" contributor Sarah Vowell talks with Bob Seay about her book on Roger Williams and the Puritans "The Wordy Shipmates"

Thanks to a new GI bill now in effect, colleges and universities in Rhode Island are starting to see an increase in the number of veterans on campus. WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison looks at some of the challenges these students face, and what schools are doing to try to help them.

The deadly shootings last week at Fort Hood army base in Texas brought post traumatic stress disorder into the national spotlight for a new and troubling reason -  the alleged gunman was a psychiatrist, counseling soldiers traumatized by the war.  On this Veterans Day, WRNI's health care reporter Megan Hall examines how the Ocean State counsels its returning veterans, and how those mental health professionals are taking care of themselves.

Combining premieres and chestnuts, Up Close On Hope has become a popular series at Festival Ballet Providence. The latest incarnation is running now. Bill Gale has our review.

WRNI"s Bob Seay talks with New Republic Senior Editor Jonathan Cohn about House approved healthcare legislation pending in the U.S. Senate.

There's been swift and angry reaction to a veto this week by Governor Donald Carcieri.  The Governor vetoed a bill that would have allowed same sex couples to make funeral arrangements for a deceased partner.  The man whose personal experience inspired that bill is vowing to fight the veto.  WRNI's Elizabeth Harrison reports.

Governor Carcieri and some of his critics in the gay community took part yesterday in what both sides call a productive meeting. The dialogue took place two days after the governor vetoed a bill giving gays and lesbians the right to make funeral arrangements for their partners. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis was at the state house.

The very public disagreement about health care reform and abortion between Rhode Island Congressman Patrick Kennedy and Bishop Thomas Tobin remains unresolved.  Kennedy and Tobin had scheduled a meeting last week to discuss their differences, but Kennedy pulled out, saying he didn't want to air the disagreement publicly. 

Students at the Rhode Island School of Design are helping to develop a cutting-edge computer system that may one day replace the mouse and keyboard. It's called g-speak, and it uses hand gestures to communicate with the computer. WRNI's education reporter Elisabeth Harrison visited the studio where RISD students are working on the project.

New York Times reporter David Rohde, who was kidnapped by the Taliban and spent seven-and-a-half months in captivity in Pakistan before escaping, spoke at Brown University on Monday.  Rohde is a graduate of Brown, who recounted the ordeal of his capture and eventual escape in a five-part series in the New York Times. 

WRNI Morning Edition host Bob Seay speaks with author Deborah Davis about her book "Gilded" and its characters.

It's easy enough to feel pessimistic about Rhode Island's future. A two and a half year recession left us with a nearly 13 percent unemployment rate, plummeting home values and soaring state deficits.  While economists agree the old manufacturing companies that once made the state prosper will never return, a new kind of business is taking root.

Rhode Island's General Assembly faces a raft of perennially tough budget issues when the session convenes in January. One topic the Assembly has not tackled recently is whether the state should decriminalize small amounts of marijuana, as Massachusetts has done.

Natural disasters are not usually seen as subjects for the musical stage. But then there was "Titanic" on Broadway and in film. Now another improbable production is being developed in New York - and it is centered in Rhode Island. Bill Gale has the story.

Imagine eleven people living in a public housing apartment.  Well, this oversized Providence family is enjoying its first Thanksgiving in their own home thanks to Habitat For Humanity. WRNI's Flo Jonic reports.

It's Black Friday, the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. The name stems from the fact that the Christmas shopping frenzy often puts retailers in the black. But as WRNI's Flo Jonic reports it may have a more sinister connotation this year.

The fledgling moderate party of Rhode Island has high hopes for next year's political season.   It intends to field a broad slate of candidates, including one for governor and close to 20 for the general assembly.  The moderates crossed a threshold last summer when they became an officially recognized political party.

There are ways to improve Rhode Island's economy, but it won't happen quickly or easily. That was one of the main themes yesterday as the House of Representatives held an economic forum at the State House. WRNI political reporter Ian Donnis has the story.

As the U.S. Senate begins debate this week on a major bill to overhaul national health care, WRNI's political analyst, Scott Mackay, sat down with Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse to talk about what's in the bill, and its propsects for passage.

Officials at the Community College of Rhode Island say they have reached a tipping point: with enrollment on the rise and budget cuts continuing due to the state's fiscal crisis, the days of an open door policy at Community Colleges may be nearing an end.

WRNI education reporter Elisabeth Harrison has the story.

As the U.S. Senate takes up national health care reform this week in Washington, much is at stake for R