Rhode Island PBS Weekly

On this episode, we take another look at contributor Steph Machado’s story about inmates learning the language of computers, also known as coding. Then, a second look at Pamela Watts’ story on how whaling logs from the 19th century are helping modern-day scientists track weather patterns and assess changes in the climate. Finally, in our continuing My Take series, we meet again Rhode Island Quahogger Jody King who tells us everything we need to know about Quahogs, Rhode Island's favorite clam

On this episode we take another look at Michelle San Miguel’s in-depth interview with educator David Upegui. Upegui, who grew up experiencing homelessness, has now received the nation’s highest honor for STEM teachers. He shares his unique outlook on how he has improved—and even saved—students’ lives. Then, we take a second look at the crew and students aboard Rhode Island’s iconic Tall Ship, the Oliver Hazard Perry. Finally we re-visit a Little Compton alpaca farm.

On this episode we take a second look at an interview with Rhode Island’s poet laureate, Colin Channer. Then, we revisit a story about a local artist whose work took a dramatic turn when her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Finally, another look at a story about a Coventry man who has taught thousands of kids to fish.

On this episode, we revisit a North Kingstown sanctuary that rescues horses. Then, a second look at a conversation with a former Providence Journal journalist forging a new path on the hiking trails of Rhode Island. Finally, we return to Bristol’s Linden Place, a historic home museum grappling with a troubled past.

On this episode, Olivia Ebertz travels to Jamestown, where residents are facing a shortage of drinking water. Then, the latest in the astounding story of Betty Anne Waters, who exonerated her brother from a false murder conviction. Plus, a new installment of Weekly Insight explores why Governor Dan McKee refused to sign the state budget.

On this episode, David Wright examines bridge safety across the state, in the wake of the Washington Bridge closure. Then, Pamela Watts heads to Industrious Spirit Company, or ISCO, a distillery creating unique flavors like seaweed and oyster. Plus, 66-year-old endurance athlete Paul Mellor gives a lesson on perseverance, and a new installment of Weekly Insight.

On this episode, Isabella Jibilian looks at why many Rhode Islanders are being priced out of the housing market. Then, we revisit Michelle San Miguel’s interview with a Providence Centenarian who embodies what it means to live a life of service, even when it wasn’t always welcome. Finally, Anaridis Rodriguez our contributor, WPRI 12’s Politics Editor Ted Nesi discuss the revised State budget for the new fiscal year and the plans and the cost of rebuilding the Westbound side of the Washington Bridge.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel reports on how climate change is fueling the dwindling lobster population off the Rhode Island coast. Then, Pamela Watts takes ah look at how climate change and rising sea levels threaten some of Rhode Island’s historical and iconic homes. Both stories are part of our continuing Green Seeker series. Finally, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12’s Politics Editor Ted Nesi discuss transportation director Peter Alviti’s response to Rhode Island PBS Weekly’s Washington Bridge investigation.

On this episode, our contributor Steph Machado explores the intense pressure that higher education is under amid massive changes in Washington, and ongoing financial issues with an in-depth interview with Dan Egan, president of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, which represent Rhode Island’s eight private colleges. Then, as America’s 250 anniversary approaches, we take a second look at Pamela Watts report on a daring raid in Warwick Rhode Island that may have sparked the American Revolution? Finally, Anaridis Rodriguez our contributor, WPRI 12’s Politics Editor Ted Nesi discuss the financial challenges facing Providence and recent poll numbers that show Governor McKee’s job approval rating at an all-time low.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel and Jeremy Bernfeld have an in-depth report on our continuing investigation into the Washington Bridge. Our story looks at how and why Rhode Island’s Department of Transportation (RIDOT) may have missed warning signs lurking inside critical components which ultimately led to closure and demolishing of the Westbound side of the bridge. Then, our contributor Anaridis Rodriguez and producer Isabella Jibilian report on how violence affects young people’s mental health and how the Nonviolence Institute in Providence is working with them and teaching them how to cope in nonviolent ways. Finally, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12’s Politics Editor Ted Nesi explain why lawmaker have about $65 million dollars more to work with to craft the budget than they anticipated.

On this episode, political reporter Ian Donnis interviews Senator Sheldon Whitehouse on climate, dark money, the tax code, Rhode Island’s loss of federal funding and what they may mean to the future of scientific research in our state and beyond. Whitehouse also takes on Democrats and why they lost the election….and, yes he talks about that vote on tariffs that he missed. Then, Michelle San Miguel profiles Ana Flores, a Cuban-born painter and sculptor, who has spent decades turning materials from nature into works of art. Finally, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12’s Politics Editor Ted Nesi explain what lawmakers are prioritizing in the final weeks of the General Assembly’s annual session. And why members of the Rhode Island House were united in their effort to reject Governor Dan McKee’s resolution to offer raises to 11 of his department heads.

On this episode, Pamela Watts finds out why some school districts are turning to remote mental health therapy to help Rhode Island students. Then, Contributor Steph Machado reports on what the Trump Administration cuts of tens of millions of dollars in science research funding will ultimately mean to Rhode Island’s universities. Finally, we hear one local family's story of survival.

On this special edition of Rhode Island PBS Weekly we take an in-depth look at youth and mental health issues. All of our segments on this episode were generously underwritten by a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island. We begin with Michelle San Miguel’s report on the mental health issues that many of the Ocean State’s young people struggle with every day. And the role race and sexual orientation plays in their emotional wellbeing. Then, Isabella Jibilian has a report on loneliness and its detrimental physical and mental effects on both the young and the old here in Rhode Island and beyond. Finally, Isabella Jibilian explores how technology that is designed to be addictive can have tragic consequences for kids and teens.

On this episode, Olivia Ebertz reports from Prudence Island where residents are struggling to find clean, fresh drinkable water. Then, a second look at a group of Rhode Islanders who call themselves Anti-Graffiti Vigilantes as they clean-up graffiti one rock at a time to help preserve some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas. Finally, on this installment of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi break down the heated debate in Providence over a proposed property tax increase and remember the late Rhode Island senate president Dominick Ruggerio.

On this episode, local lawmakers recently introduced legislation to prohibit library censorship. Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report on the Freedom to Read Bill aiming to stop the banning of books here in Rhode Island. Then, a second look at the stone walls that surround New England. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi discuss local toymaker Hasbro’s decision to stay in Rhode Island, and how the proposed Federal Funding cuts to Brown University could impact local residents.

On this episode, as part of our Green Seeker series, Pamela Watts updates her report on how and why climate change is helping fuel the exodus of bees in Rhode Island. Then, a second look at the decades-long dispute over beach access in Ocean State. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi discuss the installation of the state’s new Catholic Bishop, and why thousands of Rhode Islanders are scrambling to find a new doctor.

On this episode, Pamela Watts reports on the financial impacts both good and not so good for two Rhode Island cities since the Washington Bridge closure. Then, contributor David Wright introduces us to some entrepreneurs who turned the crumbling Washington Bridge into an ice cream flavor. Also on this episode, as much of the country this week is gripped by final four fever – the NCAA basketball championships, we take another look at the incomparable Providence college hoopster, the legendary, Ernie DiGregorio, affectionately known as Ernie D. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss Congressman Seth Magaziner’s flip flopping on taking up residence in his district.

On this episode, Breaking Point: The Washington Bridge, Rhode Island PBS Weekly is devoting the entire broadcast to the issue. Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report exploring why more than a year after the bridge was shut down no one has been held accountable. Then, Ian Donnis has an extended interview with Rhode Island’s attorney general Peter Neronha who talks about the state’s lawsuit over the failure of the Washington Bridge. Finally, we hear from Rhode Island’s former attorney general Arlene Violet who gives her take on the Washington Bridge’s troubling history and ultimate failure.

On this episode, teenagers often spend more than 5 hours a day online. For many it can be habit forming, which may just be what the creators of these platforms are looking for. Producer Isabella Jibilian explores how technology that is designed to be addictive can have tragic consequences for kids and teens. Then, contributor Steph Machado has an in-depth interview with Kathy Cloutier, the Executive Director of DORCAS International, Rhode Island's largest immigration nonprofit  as they grapple with potential cuts to staff and refugee services amid Federal funding changes from the Trump Administration. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi explain why Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation is worried about the future of Medicaid.

On this episode, the cost of child care can drive parents out of the workforce. For some, it’s more expensive than their mortgage or rent. Michelle San Miguel reports on a pilot program that is trying to bring those costs down by incentivizing people to work in Rhode Island’s child care industry. Then, Pamela Watts interviews veterans who served in Iraq more than two decades ago. Their real-life stories are playing a starring role on stage at Trinity Rep Theater in Providence in an original production called Someone Will Remember Us. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and our contributor, WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi look into ethics' allegations surrounding Senator Sheldon Whitehouse and his wife's work, and they discuss what a poll by the State’s largest union group reveals.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel interviews Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien about his city’s future as many of its schools are failing, an iconic business is considering leaving and people are worried about how President Trump’s new policies will affect them. Then, Pamela Watts interviews a local professor who discovered a long-lost fugitive slave’s article, which had been written years before the Civil War. Finally, we take another look at our story on Growing up Hmong. The Hmong people are an ethnic group that originated in China, with a diaspora reaching across the globe. Their journey to the U.S. began after one of the longest and most divisive wars in American History – the Vietnam War -- came to an end. Producer Isabella Jibilian interviewed a Hmong family here in the Ocean State about their history and journey to America. This is part of our continuing My Take series.

On this episode, Ian Donnis reports on why some Rhode Island craft brewers say state laws are restricting their growth. Then on this episode of Weekly insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi discuss how the Trump Administration’s federal spending cuts to a whole host of programs, including Medicaid and cancer research will affect Rhode Islanders. Finally, we take another look at producer Isabella Jibilian in-depth report on loneliness and its detrimental physical and mental effects on both the young and the old here in Rhode Island and beyond.

On this episode, we take another look at Michelle San Miguel’s in-depth report on why many women with dense breast are at greater risk of developing cancer. And how a new Rhode Island law is helping uncover this risk. Then we meet again, Keith Nunes and hear about his journey to redemption after taking another man’s life. His story is part of our continuing Turning Point series. Finally, the election for Rhode Island's next governor is more than a year away, but this year will shape how that race unfolds. Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12's politics editor Ted Nesi explain what's playing out behind the scenes.

On this episode, contributor Steph Machado goes inside one of Rhode Island’s medium security prisons where inmates are learning the language of computers, also known as coding. They’re hoping that high demand for those skilled in web development and software design could lead to jobs that keep them out of prison for good. Then, producer Isabella Jibilian reports on the recent cyberattacks in Rhode Island and how we all can protect ourselves from future attacks here and beyond. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi talk about how Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation has responded to President Trumps first few weeks in office.

On this episode, we revisit producer Isabella Jibilian’s report on medical treatments for women going through menopause. Then, the winter birds are back and we take another at Michelle San Miguel’s report on their journey to the Rhode Island coastline. Finally, we take another look at Dwo Wen Chen’s pottery and he gives us his take on turning clay into art.

On this episode, Pamela Watts has an in-depth report on how whaling logs from the 19th century are helping modern-day scientists track weather patterns and assess changes in the climate. Then, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss Governor McKee’s annual State of the State address. McKee told Rhode Islanders he plans to close a roughly $250 million deficit without a broad-based tax increase. Finally, a second look at how climate change and rising sea levels threaten some of Rhode Island’s historical and iconic homes.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report on the efforts to secure funding for the Arts in Rhode Island. Then, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss the incoming Administration and what impact that might have on New England, and they unpack what’s in store for Rhode Islander’s as the legislative session gets underway. Finally, a second look and update on contributor Steph Machado’s story on the Federal Government’s charge that state officials were warehousing children for years at a psychiatric hospital.

On this episode, contributor Steph Machado has a wide- ranging interview with Michelle Wilcox, who this year rose to President and CEO of the State's largest provider of housing for the homeless -- Crossroads Rhode Island. Then, Rhode Islanders have long flocked to Trinity Reparatory Company for their annual performance of a Christmas Carol. But this year – there’s a twist. Producer Isabella Jibilian takes us behind the scenes to see how costume designerAmanda Downing Carney is giving Scrooge and his ghosts a new look. Finally, we revisit producer Isabella Jibilian’s story on toy designer Khipra Nichols – one of the designers behind such iconic toys as Mr. Potato Head and My Little Pony.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report on the city of Central Falls efforts to take back their schools, which the state has been running for 33 years. Then, Pamela Watts reports on the resurgence of vintage typewriters at a repair shop in Pawtucket. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss the latest on the Washington Bridge ... nearly one year after the westbound side was shut down, and why Providence has to pay a lot more for education.

On this episode, producer Isabella Jibilian has an in-depth report on loneliness and its detrimental physical and mental effects on both the young and the old here in Rhode Island and beyond. Then, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss how local lawmakers are preparing for a new Presidential Administration and why next year’s State budget is causing concern. Finally, at this time of Thanksgiving, we revisit Pamela Watts interview with Elisha Project founder George Ortiz who is on a mission to feed the hungry through a program that takes community sharing to a whole new level

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report on the mental health issues that many of Rhode Island’s young people struggle with every day. And the role race and sexual orientation plays in their emotional wellbeing. Then, in honor of Native American Heritage Month, Pamela Watts takes us on a journey with members of the Wampanoag tribe as they build and set sale an ancient wooden canoe known as a Mishoon. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss the growing number of State senators questioning whether the ailing Senate President should remain in his job. And, they unpack the funding battle over Providence public schools

On this episode, in honor of Native American Heritage Month we revisit Pamela Watts story on Native American children taken from their families and forced into boarding schools by the Federal Government where they endured a brutal assimilation. This resulted in multi-generational trauma for indigenous people such as the Narragansetts of Rhode Island. Then, producer Isabella Jibilian reports on the fast growing world of Chat GPT. This story is part of our continuing My Take series. And, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss the election results. And, finally, a look back at some of Rhode Island PBS Weekly’s most memorable moments as we celebrate our 4th anniversary on the air.

On this episode, we meet Maribeth Calabro, the newly elected president of the largest teachers union in Rhode Island. Contributor Steph Machado sat down with the new union boss and former Providence teacher for a wide-ranging conversation about what’s ahead for Rhode Island schools. Then, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi break down the Mayoral races in Woonsocket and Cranston, and take a closer look at the investigation surrounding Governor Dan McKee and a multi-million dollar state contract. And, finally, we take another look at why Mashapaug Pond, the largest freshwater body in Providence, has long been off limits for recreational use and what state officials are doing about it.

On this episode, in honor of breast cancer awareness month, Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report on why many women with dense breast are at greater risk of developing cancer. And how a new Rhode Island law is helping uncover this risk. Then, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi unpack some of Rhode Island’s biggest election races. And, finally, it’s Halloween week and Pamela Watts reports how and why a local couple has made it their mission in retirement to restore desecrated graves all over the state, including the grave of Bathsheba Sherman’s of the so-called Conjuring House

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel has an in-depth report on a local equine rescue and sanctuary that has cared for more than 400 horses over 25 years. Many were abused and neglected and about to be sent out for slaughter. Then, Pamela Watts heads out to Newport to meet the crew and students aboard Rhode Island’s iconic Tall Ship, the Oliver Hazard Perry. And then, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss bond measures on the November ballot and the latest on the Washington bridge saga. Finally, a second look at Dwo Wen Chen’s pottery, which was exhibited in May at the Smithsonian Craft show in Washington. DC.

On this episode, Growing up Hmong. The Hmong people are an ethnic group that originated in China, with a diaspora reaching across the globe. Their journey to the U.S. began after one of the longest and most divisive wars in American History – the Vietnam War -- came to an end. Producer Isabella Jibilian interviewed a Hmong family here in the Ocean State about their history and journey to America. This is part of our continuing series, My Take series. Then we revisit and update Pamela Watt’s story on the diverse works of local sculptor, Peter Diepenbrock. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss why the state should hold a constitutional convention and the upcoming layoffs at CVS.

On this episode, contributor Steph Machado reports on the changing path of education. Today, working toward a career in boat building, fire-fighting and the science of raising plants and animals in water can start in high school where technical training courses have exploded. The uptick has both students and educators here in Rhode Island seeing the future of work in a very different light. Then, photojournalist Michael Jones introduces us to master scrimshaw artist Brian Kiracofe who gives us his take on scrimshaw art and why it endures. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss what a recent poll reveals about how well elected officials in Rhode Island are doing their jobs, and why the majority of Rhode Islanders disapprove of how Governor McKee is doing his.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel explores the stone walls that surround New England and interviews experts who say the historic walls function as more than a barrier, that they unite the region in a way that nothing else does. Then, Pamela Watts gives us a history lesson on our state bird, the Rhode Island Red and introduces us to the centenarian who describes the iconic role the bird has played locally, culturally and in post WW II history. And, photojournalist, Michael Frank introduces us to a master cobbler from West Warwick, who gives us his take on the often forgotten art of shoe repair. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss Rhode Island’s largest hospital group, Lifespan, announcement that 20 percent of its executive force was laid off and why Cox Communications is suing Rhode Island over a statewide internet pla

On this episode, Isabella Jibilian and Alex Nunes report on the battle over who has the right to be on Narragansett’s Town Beach, which has become a focus for activists who say the public is being shut out. Then, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage month, we revisit Michelle San Miguel’s story about one Rhode Islander’s commitment to preserve the state’s Latino history. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss why the demolition of the Washington bridge is on hold and why one of Rhode Island’s most iconic businesses – Hasbro – may leave the state.

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel introduces us to scientists working to establish Brown University and Rhode Island as a hub for RNA research. For many, RNA holds the keys to countless medical breakthroughs. Then, Pamela Watts interviews Elisha Project founder George Ortiz who is on a mission to feed the hungry through a program that takes community sharing to a whole new level. Finally, on this edition of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss the RI primary results and the fall election.

On this episode, we revisit Michelle San Miguel’s in-depth report on what’s behind the rise of parents home schooling their children in Rhode Island. Then, we take another look at the enduring legacy of Benjamin Franklin on one local town and public education. Finally, we return to Rose Island, where producer Isabella Jibilian introduced us to a professor who is catching birds in the name of science.

On this episode, we revisit Pamela Watts interview with local artist and handbag designer, Kent Stetson. Then we take another look at Michelle San Miguel’s intriguing story about a world where some people not only hear music, but also see it and where even the words they see can have flavors and colors and even smells.  The neurological condition is known as synesthesia and more of us have it then you might think.  Finally, we revisit  Rose Island where producer Isabella Jibilian introduced us to the Island’s manager Mike Healey who gave us a tour for our continuing series, Window on Rhode Island. 

On this episode, we revisit Pamela Watts interview with former Providence Journal Reporter John Kostrzewa talking about his book Walking Rhode Island. Then, on our continuing Window on Rhode Island series we take another look inside the Wolf E. Myrow company, a bulk jewelry supplier in the heart of Providence, where one family has been selling beads, rhinestones, and much more for several decades. Finally, we take another look at Newport’s International Polo Grounds and capture announcer, William Crisp, who is on a mission, through passion and sarcasm – to elevate the equestrian competition to new heights.

On this episode, we revisit a story about surfers out on Little Compton who many say are performing miracles. Then, we take another look at a story about a photographer cataloguing lighthouses up and down the east coast. Finally, producer Isabella Jibilian introduces us to Rhode Island filmmaker and urban explorer Jason Allard who gives us his take on why the State’s iconic, but abandoned buildings should not be forgotten.

On this episode, we revisit Rhode Island’s Poet Laureate, Colin Channer. Then, we take another look at how artist, Sara Holbrook’s work took a dramatic turn when her husband began to lose his way. Finally, on this episode of Weekly Insight, Michelle San Miguel and WPRI 12’s politics editor Ted Nesi discuss why a Democratic Rhode Island politician publicly raised concerns about President Biden.

On this episode, we revisit Michelle San Miguel’s deep dive into the importance of understanding media and staying informed. Then, we take a another look at the issue of critical race theory. The term has become a catchall for the debate over what, and if, we teach about race in schools.

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On this episode, producer Isabella Jibilian has an in-depth report on the number of American children who can’t swim and how racism has played a role in barring generations of swimmers from pools. Then, Pamela Watts takes us behind the scenes at Whooplah Studio—where the new Children’s show, Pollywog Pond, comes to life. Finally, a Coventry man teaches thousands of kids to fish.

On this episode, in collaboration with The Public's Radio, reporters Isabella Jibilian and Alex Nunes take an in-depth look at the decades-long dispute over beach access in Rhode Island. Then, as part of our Green Seeker series, Pamela Watts reports on how and why climate change is helping fuel the exodus of bees in Rhode Island. Finally, in our continuing My Take series, we revisit Rhode Island Quahogger Jody King who told us everything we needed to know about Quahogs, the Ocean State’s favorite clam.