STORY OF THE WEEK: Back in the day, the approach of the end of February would signal the time for the Providence Newspaper Guild Follies – the bygone annual satiric sendup of the year in Rhode … more

“It’s a free pass.” K. Joseph Shekarchi was talking about the appeal of running for the First Congressional District seat now that David Cicilline has announced he will step down … more

By JOHN HOWELL Joseph Shekarchi didn’t get any argument when he told the House Democratic caucus Thursday evening that they “developed an agenda that was tremendously well received by … more

By JOHN HOWELL Legislative action enabling Kent Hospital and its larger entity, Care New England, to remain sustainable non profit institutions came down to two considerations for House Speaker K. … more

Since last spring tenants hard pressed to pay their rent have received a lifeline through RentReliefRI to help pay for back rent and, in some cases, rent going forward. Applications are being … more

 No quick fix to housing need, but we must continue working By SPEAKER K. JOSEPH SHEKARCHI In my first year as House Speaker, I’m proud of the way we worked together as a chamber to … more

By JOHN HOWELL What legislation didn't pass is as important as what was enacted, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi told members of the Warwick Rotary Club Thursday. Legislators did not approve the so-called "tax the rich" plan or a sugar tax on drinks more

By K. JOSEPH SHEKARCHI Imagine this: you're a medical assistant and a single parent. You've worked hard to be self-sufficient, even taking the classes needed to obtain your certification. Yet you cannot afford to purchase a home anywhere in Rhode Island. more

By HOUSE SPEAKER K. JOSEPH SHEKARCHI Sixty years ago, up the road in Boston, President Kennedy gave farewell remarks to his home state before assuming the presidency. Those remarks still guide public servants well. He challenged those of us entrusted more

By JOHN HOWELL Joe doesn't say no. Well, not at first. It's that way of doing things that earned Rep. K. Joseph Shekarchi the trust of his colleagues within two days of the election to select him as the next speaker of the House. Within 48 hours of the more