Reopening Rhode Island + Minimum Wage + President Biden's Visit

Happy Friday, Woonsocket!

Welcome to the Woonsocket Patch Daily — the quickest way to get caught up on the biggest news and events happening in town.

In today's Daily, we share the latest news about Rhode Island's reopening on Friday, Gov. McKee signing a bill that will increase the state's minimum wage, the Department of Environmental Management stocking fish statewide ahead of Memorial Day weekend, President Joe Biden's brief visit to the Ocean State, and the growth of the Rhode Island's job market.

First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny, with a chance of showers in the evening. Temps: High of 82° & Low of 57°.

Here are the top five stories in Woonsocket today:

1. Gov. Dan McKee has confirmed that Rhode Island will reopen Friday, with nearly all COVID-19 restrictions being lifted for most businesses and public spaces. (The Providence Journal)

2. The governor has also signed a bill that will gradually increase Rhode Island's minimum wage over the next four years. The state's current minimum wage is $11.50 and will eventually reach $15. (WPRI)

3. The Department of Environmental Management will be stocking trout and landlocked salmon in Rhode Island's inland waters ahead of Memorial Day weekend. (Patch)

4. President Joe Biden landed in Rhode Island yesterday on his way to the Coast Guard Academy graduation ceremony in New London, Connecticut. State leaders, including Gov. Dan McKee and National Guard Maj. Gen. Christopher Callahan, greeted him at Quonset Point around 10 a.m. (Patch)

5. The Rhode Island economy added 400 jobs in April, boosting the number of jobs in the state to 467,600. Since the beginning of 2021, the state's job market has grown by 9,800. (Newport Buzz)

Happenings and Events in Woonsocket:

• Rhode Island Quahog Week began Monday, a week-long celebration that highlights the importance of Rhode Island's shellfish to the state's economy and culture. Participating restaurants and markets will offer specials and deals. For more information and a list of participating restaurants, click here.
• Millrace Kitchen is hosting musician Lisa Bello as part of its Outdoor Music Series from 6-8:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more information and directions, click here.

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Featured classifieds:

• Job Listing: Seasons Corner Market Now Hiring with Summer Bonus

You're all caught up on what's happening today in Woonsocket. We'll see you in your inbox tomorrow. Have a great day!

-Annie

About me: I grew up in Central Massachusetts and graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Harvard University. I have lived, worked, and studied in Boston for the last five years and cover stories in Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. I am passionate about music and the arts, creative writing and literature, and topics of social and political justice.