The Rhode Island Foundation, which helps support “Behind the Story,” is leading a national initiative locally called Press Forward Rhode Island, which will provide grants to nonprofit and for-profit news organizations that come up with ideas for how to improve access to news, address information gaps and increase sustainability.

“I’ve watched this significant decline in the presence of local media,” Cicilline said. “You see news organizations just shrink or just go away completely. And the reason it’s particularly pernicious is because you think about the role journalists play in exposing corruption, mismanagement, bad decisions by those in local and state and federal government. And that’s important oversight and sometimes the only way the public learns about those things.”

Cicilline also talked about a recent survey Press Forward Rhode Island published showing 89% of Rhode Island respondents saying they still placed value on local news and trusted those news sources more than national organizations.

But the research also showed Rhode Islanders are concerned about misinformation, and nearly two-thirds of respondents said they felt like local news lacked diversity in viewpoints.

“The responsibility of journalists and news sources is to report facts and not to give you what you want to hear or to support your opinion, and to distinguish between stories that are facts and opinion pieces,” Cicilline said.

“But that’s where civics education matters,” he added. “Making sure people understand this is a place where you can go when you want to know what the facts are. And if you want opinions on something, go to the opinions page or go to the program that’s talking about opinions, not news, but really educating people about the differences between those two things.”

Later in the show, Dan and Eli discussed the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Dan’s pick

• Providence’s Largest Primary Care Provider Searches for New Leadership. What’s Next for Patients? by Eric Halvarson, The Providence Eye
• Newport Grand remains abandoned. Is there hope for redevelopment? by Savana Dunning, Newport Daily News

Eli’s pick

• Climate change is driving scallops north. That’s good news for New Bedford by Brooke Kushwaha, The New Bedford Light
• Rehoboth fire chief fired over alleged ethics violations in connection to solar farm by Stephen Peterson, The Sun Chronicle

Lauren Clem, a senior editor, and Jonathan Pitts-Wiley, a photographer, shadowed workers in fields including hospitality, health care, policing, fishing and restaurants.

“I am not normally working the night shift, so we had some very sleepless few weeks,” Clem said. “The majority we did on separate nights, and we tried to line them up chronologically within the feature.”

Pitts-Wiley, a North Providence-based portrait and documentary photographer, partnered with Clem to capture moments experienced by those featured in the piece. He said he aimed to respect the dignity of his subjects while using light in different ways to capture compelling images.

“For me, it just came down to what is visually interesting and trying to create images that are compelling irrespective of having all the context,” Pitts-Wiley said. “The viewer is not in the room with you. They don’t know the smell, they don’t have the context, they only have the image.”

Later in the show, Kim and Eli discussed the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Kim’s pick

• Family Travel by Lauren Clem, Rhode Island Monthly (currently only available in print edition for April)
• Has 'Real Housewives' helped one cast member's RI business? We found out by Paul Edward Parker, The Providence Journal

Eli’s pick

• Three-part series on homelessness by Jim Hummel, Hummel Report
  Part 1: Out in the cold
  Part 2: Finding shelter
  Part 3: What's the plan?
• Vineyard Wind sues GE Renewables to block it from abandoning project by Anastasia Lennon, The New Bedford Light

“One of the motivations behind starting the outlet was to cover all of the city and move beyond downtown and the East Side, and to cover areas that might not get as much in-depth attention,” Halvarson said during a taping of the show.

Halvarson, who grew up in Cranston and now lives in Providence, recently published a deep dive on murals in the city amid controversy surrounding a large painting of Iryna Zarutska on a downtown building.

The Ukrainian refugee, who was stabbed to death in Charlotte, North Carolina, has become a polarizing figure, with a group that includes billionaire Elon Musk financially backing efforts to put up murals of her across the country.

Halvarson spoke with artists, curators and Providence residents to explore what goes into placing murals in public spaces and what factors are considered when they are likely to spark debate.

“I wanted to find a way to put this in context and bring it into a broader conversation about Providence, beyond the conservative or progressive takes,” he said.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli discussed the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Dan’s pick

• New schools’ price: $12M a year for 26 years by John Howell, The Warwick Beacon
• Is that a $100 bill? Someone is leaving cash all around Rhode Island. by Carlos Muñoz, The Boston Globe

Eli’s pick

• New Bedford officials anticipate $10 million or more in deficit challenges by Colin Hogan, The New Bedford Light
• Barrington budget and tax levy: A new process and a big increase by Josh Bickford, EastBayRI

More than 90% of the state’s sludge — a mix of human waste, organic materials and chemicals filtered out of wastewater — is disposed of at the facility in northern Rhode Island.

“If that closes, you’re going to have dozens of cities and towns that will have not have a place to take their sludge,” he said. “They’re going to be faced with essentially finding places that can landfill it, and cities and towns now that have been forced to do this they are taking their sludge by rail to Massachusetts and then it goes all the way to Ohio or Pennsylvania.”

Now, a similar issue is emerging in North Kingstown, where residents are calling on the Quonset Development Corp. to rescind approval of a proposed sludge facility. Meanwhile, House Speaker Joe Shekarchi has supported legislation to create a commission to study biosolids, and Gov. Dan McKee is urging greater transparency around the proposed project.

Kuffner said there’s no link between the two projects in different parts of the state, but many people are watching closely to what happens in both communities to get a better sense of where sludge will go in the future.

“For people in the industry who are trying to find a place for their sludge, they’re thinking, ‘If this thing can get up and running, it’d be great because then it takes the pressure off Woonsocket and Woonsocket can then close,’” he said.

But Kuffner acknowledged the science behind the Quonset project is still relatively new and has faced challenges in other parts of the country. He said the project has several hurdles to clear before it might become a reality, and there are several factors that could prevent it from getting off the ground.

“There are a lot of stakeholders that make it very complicated,” he said.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli discussed the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Kim’s pick

• Homeowner dug up what looked like a toy. Was it part of a 1978 homicide? by Mark Reynolds, The Providence Journal
• As residents dodge potholes, approved repair budget will fix less than 6 miles of road by Colin Hogan and Brooke Kushwaha, The New Bedford Light

Eli’s pick

• Parents voice frustration, anger over Attleboro school rules on restraint and seclusion by Rhianwen Watkins, The Sun Chronicle
• Barrington Police: Suspects lurking in bushes were playing ‘senior assassin’ by EastBayRI

“I was able to make it work for a really long time,” Shorey said, adding the long hours required at a local newspaper were affecting his ability to spend time with his family. “I was ending up having to do almost a full-time extra job 15 to 20 weeks a year.”

Shorey said he’s currently exploring options to continue reporting in Rhode Island. He said people should expect to see his byline again within the next four months.

“Digital really is the future,” he said. “I’m more optimistic, even in Rhode Island, you see this news collaborative, with a lot of the digital sites and it’s sharing some resources, and I think they’re going to do more of that in the future. There’s a lot of them now.”

The long-time journalist also discussed how the industry has changed, especially with the influence of social media. A 2025 Pew Research Center poll found Americans continue to trust local news more than any other type of information.

But the poll also found Americans ages 18 to 29 are equally likely to trust information from social media as from national news outlets. And trust in social media has grown across all age groups since 2016, according to the poll.

Shorey said it’s changed dramatically over his career, and media literacy is always something he tried to highlight to students and younger journalists.

“I don’t want to disparage 18 to 29 year olds, but there is less news literacy than there’s ever been, in my opinion,” Shorey said.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli discussed the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Dan’s pick

• Providence residents ran a $1M budget. Then the system fell apart by Ben Berke, Ocean State Media
• Monopoly Man? by Eli Sherman, 12 News (for Rhode Island Monthly)

Eli’s pick

• Ads for preppy store in liberal Newport co-opted by White nationalists by Antonia Noori Farzan, The Providence Journal
• State pays union dues for thousands of employees after paycheck mistake by Brian Crandall, NBC 10

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

The two men traveled to Philadelphia to visit a redeveloped space known as “Bok.” Afterward, state contractors who gave them a tour alleged Patten behaved inappropriately during the trip and that Thorsen failed to intervene.

The two men were also treated a free lunch at a restaurant called Irwin’s, which opened early specifically for them. Thorsen paid for Patten and himself days later after realizing trouble was brewing.

“It was a very unusual circumstance that Thorson was walking into, with no menus, no waitstaff, no table settings at the other tables, the chef personally preparing meals — no bill,” Anderson said.

“So, something even beyond the unusual nature of what happens in political lunches was going on here,” he added.

The issue became a scandal after the McKee administration was forced to release an email detailing the alleged behavior, following a public records battle with Target 12 and The Providence Journal.

Both former directors later came under scrutiny from the R.I. Ethics Commission, which alleged they violated the state’s ethics code.

Patten was fined $5,000 to resolve the matter, while Thorsen is contesting the allegations.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli discussed the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Kim’s pick

• Five years in, ‘world’s shortest’ parade is an institution by Ted Hayes, EastBayRI
• Monopoly Man? by Eli Sherman, 12 News (for Rhode Island Monthly)

Eli’s pick

• MORE MILLIONS: Seven-figure home sales spreading away from waterfront by Veer Mudambi, Providence Business News
• Investigation into alleged affair between judge and prosecutor concludes by Grace Ferguson, The New Bedford Light

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

“It’s this place that used to be a luxurious place to shop with the Nordstrom’s — with classic mall stores like The Gap, J. Crew and a lot of those have been replaced and gone,” Gagosz said. “When we say the mall is in limbo, it’s like, what is the future of this major development?”

The mall has been under court-ordered receivership, a state-level version of bankruptcy, since the former operator defaulted on millions of dollars of debt in 2024.

Gagosz and her colleague Steph Machado detailed the current state of the mall’s vendors, including a mounting number of empty storefronts alongside businesses that continue to bustle.

The duo also looked at what it would take to reinvent the struggling shopping complex, which is poised to lose a longstanding tax break with the city in 2028.

“If it failed, it would completely transform downtown Providence in such a negative way,” Gagosz said.

“luckily though, it is literally at the front door of the state House, lawmakers have to drive by it in order to go park and get into the State House and deliberate over whatever they’re going to deliberate that day,” she added. “I think the same with City Hall, and I don’t think that there is an appetite for anybody to allow this mall to fail. It just can’t.”

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Dan’s pick

• Families now being affected by SNAP benefit changes by Mara Hagen-Spath, The Valley Breeze
• Jamestown boy captures world record with a spoon and his nose by Joe Tasca, Ocean State Media

Eli’s pick

• How two troubled RI lives came to an end in room 207 of a CT Super 8 by Jack Perry, The Providence Journal
• GoFundMe raising money for ‘John’ the Brown University tipster by Melanie DaSilva and Shiina LoScuiuto, 12 News

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Although the show was filmed locally and Rhode Island is featured throughout, Berger said first-time viewers will quickly learn it is more about the cast and their relationships than the setting.

“You see them at the polo tournament, you see them at Newport Vineyards, you see them at Goddard Park, you see them at all these different locations that we will recognize,” Berger said Wednesday. “But someone in Peoria isn’t going to know what beach they’re on.”

Berger, who has worked across multiple media platforms during her career, also voiced support for entertainment news and encouraged Rhode Islanders to embrace the national attention the show brings.

“My favorite thing is when I post something on social media and someone writes, ‘Well, who cares?’” she said. “I do. I care, and a lot of people do. And especially these days, you need a break. You need a mind-rot moment, and it’s fun.”

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Kim’s pick

The Providence Place mall is up for sale. But is the age of the indoor mall over? by Alexa Gagosz and Steph Machado, The Boston Globe

DNA in 1988 murder a possible link to New Bedford highway killings by Frank Mulligan, The Standard -Times

Eli’s pick

As Woonsocket plans to close sludge incinerator, a regional crisis looms by Alex Kuffner, The Providence Journal

RIDOT Director Alviti insults local official on blizzard call by Brian Crandall, WJAR-TV

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Fish, an anchor and reporter, was stationed on Aquidneck Island with Welch, the station’s chief photographer.

For hours during the height of the historic snowstorm, the breaking news duo trudged through wind and snow to show viewers the dangerous whiteout conditions.

“It’s active, it’s interesting. People are usually sitting at home and can’t go anywhere because they’re snowed in, so it’s on us to show them what’s happening outside,” Fish said, adding that she has always enjoyed snow and covering major weather events.

Beyond documenting the snowfall, Welch emphasized the importance of finding stories afterward that highlight the human resilience that often emerges during emergencies.

The pair recalled one story about a younger man who stopped to help an older woman shovel, sparking a new friendship between neighbors in Middletown.

“We heard something that made us think they didn’t know each other,” Welch said. “We went over and talked to them, and that was the case. So we instantly put a microphone on them and started recording and told them, ‘Do your thing.’”

“It was a prime example of people who didn’t know each other coming together,” he added.

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

The shooting killed two people and wounded three others, who remained in critical condition as of Wednesday. The incident quickly drew national attention.

Police identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, a transgender person who also went by the name Roberta Dorgan. Authorities said Dorgan shot and killed Rhonda Dorgan and Aidan Dorgan during a hockey tournament at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena.

Robert Dorgan later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after bystanders intervened to stop the gunfire.

Kim Kalunian of 12 News was among the first journalists on the scene, where she encountered a chaotic environment filled with first responders, student-athletes and families trying to understand what had happened. It was the second deadly shooting Kalunian had covered in two months. She was also on the scene of the December attack at Brown University.

“I just remember thinking on the drive there, ‘This is the start of vacation week, we’re going to an ice rink, it is undoubtedly going to be packed with families,’” Kalunian said. “Heading to that scene not knowing what we would encounter — it was heavy.”

In the 48 hours after the Pawtucket shooting, coverage quickly expanded into national conversations about transgender rights, gun violence and gun control, public safety and mental health.

Dan McGowan, a columnist for The Boston Globe, wrote in his daily newsletter Tuesday that it is important not to lose sight of the victims as the public narrative shifts after a deadly event.

“I’m trying to say something that’s somewhat humanizing,” McGowan said on the show. “You put yourself in that spot and think about what you might be going through if you were in that kind of situation, so I just tried to put words on paper.”

Later in the show, Kim, Dan and Eli talked about the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Kim’s pick

• Wile E. Coyote on the loose, part of wider trend in Woonsocket by Mara Hagen-Spath, The Valley Breeze

Dan’s pick

• Cranston, Pawtucket sue to block charter school By Rosegalie Cineus, The Cranston Herald

Eli’s pick

• A record-breaking night for URI basketball vs. Saint Louis. Here’s why by Bill Koch, The Providence Journal

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

“Even after putting iterations of different prompts into the AI chatbot, the chatbot was still violating ethical guidelines for counseling,” Williams said. “It was doing things like gaslighting, false empathy and giving advice that didn’t line up with guidelines.”

Williams said the research was prompted by recent headlines showing more people are turning to AI chatbots for mental health counseling. He said the trend comes at a time of high demand for therapists and limited resources.

Despite the concerning trends highlighted in the research, Williams said, “it’s not surprising that people will turn to ChatGPT.”

“You can essentially have a free therapy session whenever you want,” he added.

Williams also discussed a recent story examining proposed legislation aimed at capping administrative and glucose-monitoring costs that help drive up the price of insulin. He said the economic impact of insulin costs totals $1.5 billion annually in Rhode Island, according to the American Diabetes Association.

“It’s glucose-monitoring strips and the administration of insulin that research has shown can be just as expensive, if not more expensive, than insulin itself,” he said. “So it ends up adding up for families who have to monitor their blood sugar levels.”

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Dan’s picks

• Meet the Cranston man who was barber to the mob by Pamela Watts, Ocean State Media
• Legal fight foreshadowed Plant City’s closure by Alexandra Leslie and Eli Sherman, 12 News

Eli’s picks

• Lizzie Borden House says coffee shop owner owes $160K for defamation by Dan Medeiros, The Fall River Herald News
• Dreier youngest to win district spelling bee in North Providence by Luzjennifer Martinez, The Valley Breeze

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

He spoke about the station’s longtime brand, “Operation Snowball,” and how relaying school closures and cancellations has changed as real-time information has become more accessible.

“It used to be a real undertaking because literally all the staff — the sales staff, the promotion staff, the administrators — would have to come in and answer phones,” Haberman said. “And if you got a surprise snow, nobody was there to answer the phones, so it was a real disaster.”

Haberman is also the public announcer for Brown University athletics. He said he learned about the deadly December attack through an alert system he receives from the school and recalled thinking, “I hope this is a mistake.”

“How many times have you seen people in any of these scenarios say, ‘I can’t imagine it happening here,’ and then you’re saying the same thing?” he said. “It’s terrible.”

Haberman has witnessed the transformation of radio over the past two decades and said that while the medium has contracted alongside other platforms, it remains uniquely effective in Rhode Island.

“It’s relentlessly Rhode Island,” he said of talk radio, which airs local programming throughout the day on WPRO. “It’s steeped in Rhode Island. It’s the world through a Rhode Island lens.”

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “stories we wish we wrote,” including (not all mentioned on air):

Kim's picks

• New Bedford man found not guilty of 2001 beating death of half-sister by Frank Mulligan and Dan Medeiros, The New Bedford Standard-Times
• Belton Court development plan is an ‘engineering marvel’ in density by Josh Bickford, EastBayRI

Eli’s picks

• Interest in betting sky-high with Patriots back in big game by Gina Ricciardi, The Valley Breeze
• Sewer rate, fee hikes coming for upgrades by Ryan Blessing, The Westerly Sun

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

“Nobody thought they were going to be this good,” Dondero said. “Nobody thought Drake Maye could potentially win the MVP award. I certainly didn’t think we’d be talking about a Super Bowl run. Make the Super Bowl? Are you serious?”

Dondero predicts the Patriots will win 28-20, largely because Broncos starting quarterback Bo Nix suffered a season-ending injury last week. Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, a former Patriots player, is expected to start in his place.

“I don’t know how you want me to come on here or anywhere and come up with a path for the Broncos, with Jarrett Stidham, to beat the Patriots,” Dondero said. “He’s a backup quarterback who doesn’t have a real pedigree. I’m not saying it can’t happen, but I don’t see how you expect them to find enough plays from Jarrett Stidham against that defense to get the win, even at home.”

“Behind the Story” co-host Dan McGowan, a self-described New York Giants fan, predicted a Broncos blowout, while co-host Eli Sherman picked the Patriots to win 30-14.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “Stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Dan’s picks

• ‘I thought I was going to die’: Wounded Brown student returns to campus by Stan Grossfeld, The Boston Globe
• Bucci takes ‘full responsibility,’ won’t step down by Barbara Polichetti, The Cranston Herald

Eli’s picks

• Pate dirt: North Providence residents frustrated at piles in their neighborhood by Ethan Shorey, The Valley Breeze
• Attleboro pushes forward with school redistricting by Rhianwen Watkins, The Sun Chronicle

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Lavin said covering the State of the State is somewhat easier than writing about the budget each year because it doesn’t require as much calculation. This year, she said McKee’s tone made it clear he was running for reelection in what’s likely to be a tough campaign.

“McKee is up for reelection this year and we know he has low approval ratings and at least one serious Democratic rival, maybe a second,” Lavin said. “So this was really a not-so-subtly kind of pledge to voters and I think the way that he’s trying to appeal to voters is: ‘I’m going to save you money.'”

Lavin also discussed her recent story that provided a preview of the legislative session, which began earlier this month. Lawmakers are likely to focus on a host of issues, but Lavin said health care is quickly emerging as a top priority on Smith Hill.

“That’s in large part because of these federal budget cuts and some of them have already happened, a lot of them are soon to come, and we know they are going to have major implications for Rhode Island residents, for hospitals, for nursing homes and insurance companies,” Lavin said.

“We’re already seeing all of these consequences now, so I think that that has sort of forced the legislature, whether they want it or not, to really go into crisis mode on health care,” she added.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “Stories we wish we wrote,” including:

Kim’s picks

• How a small town in Rhode Island is connected to ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ by Pamela Watts, Rhode Island PBS
• Try the trompe l’oeil desserts going viral on TikTok in Fairhaven by Faith Harrington, The Standard-Times

Eli’s picks

• The rise, fall and rise again of the Zeiterion by Colin Hogan, The New Bedford Light
• The Sun is changing to better serve you by Alex Nunes, The Westerly Sun

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

The cover story is available now on newsstands.

Her reporting explores Shekarchi’s personal life, follows his career in law and politics and offers a behind-the-scenes look at his role during a tense gun reform debate at the State House last June.

"When I met him in the morning, he said to me, 'It's gun day'," Liberman said. "And I was like, 'OK, there's my lead right there.'"

Liberman also had a front-row seat to Shekarchi’s internal debate over whether to run for Rhode Island governor.

"Joe is cautious," Liberman said. "If he runs, I don't think he wants to lose. Not that anyone who runs wants to lose, but I think he really doesn't."

As of Monday, the speaker had not made a decision, but he told “Behind the Story” co-host Kim Kalunian he plans to decide by the end of March.

Dan's picks

• Wall Street firm gets $20M payday in Pawtucket stadium deal; officials cite long-term savings by Eli Sherman, 12 News
• How AI-generated images complicated the Brown shooting investigation by Alexa Gagosz, The Boston Globe

Eli’s picks

• R.I. lawmakers are back in action on Tuesday. Here’s what awaits them. by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current
• What happens if Narragansett Bay freezes over? Here are tales from history. by Antonia Noori Farza, The Providence Journal

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

The duo discussed the current state of affairs in the much-anticipated 2026 gubernatorial race for Democrats and Republicans, and analyze the value of polls in political reporting.

White and Nesi, who also host the political affairs show "Newsmakers," also talked about what goes into preparing for debates, how they think about the value of those discussions and what affect they can have on a candidate's position in a race.

Later in the show, White and Nesi, along with host Eli Sherman, discussed "The Stories We Wish We Wrote," including:

Eli's picks

• Touro Synagogue fight leads to painful rupture, separate services by Antonia Noori Farzan and Katie Mulvaney, The Providence Journal

Tim's picks

• Gubernatorial candidates are split on proposed overhaul of R.I. public records law by Edward Fitzpatrick, Boston Globe
• Did Taylor Swift pay off a bride to get her wedding date? Ocean House pours cold water on the latest rumor by Steph Machado, Boston Globe

Ted's picks

• Blood Feuds: The Fight Over Who Gets to Be Native American by Bill Donahue, Boston Magazine

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

He also highlighted a new rate hike proposed by Rhode Island Energy for its distribution charges, which is the portion of customers’ bills where the company can make a profit.

“They agreed to hold off on filing this, this distribution rate case for several years, so now it’s actually been eight years since we changed this distribution costs,” Kuffner said. “They’re saying that through inflation, supply chain costs — all the costs that they pay have gone up, and their revenues haven’t matched that, so it’s squeezed their profits.”

Kuffner also talked about how the state is lagging in its effort to meet lofty carbon-cutting goals by 2030 and 2040, even though some leaders are optimistic the benchmarks can still be made.

“It’s going to be hard to get there,” he said.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli discussed the “Stories We Wish We Wrote,” including (not all mentioned on air):

Kim’s picks

• Companies being sued over the Washington Bridge are inspecting these RI bridges by Kathy Gregg, The Providence Journal
• Neighbors see big trouble with undersize lots by Greta Shuster, Warwick Beacon

Eli’s picks

• After going viral, Auntie’s House in Pawtucket adapts to high demand by LuzJennifer Martinez, The Valley Breeze
• A holiday ritual of fellowship and flour by Ellen G. Lahr, EastBayRI

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Patinkin said student athletes who behave badly should be held responsible for their actions. But he also called on adults — specifically coaches — to take some ownership of what’s going on.

“Coaches have the power to be able to sit kids down and a football team or a comparable situation and say, ‘Look, if any of you haze a kid, you’re off the team,'” Patinkin said. “Coaches can do that. They have the power. And I just have to think those conversations have not been happening in Rhode Island.”

Patinkin also discussed his experience writing about the Israel-Hamas war, which included him traveling to the Middle East to interview people on both sides of the conflict. Patinkin, whose writing has leaned pro-Israel, said he’s rarely received such sharp criticism over his position.

“It was withering … but I’ll tell you, it didn’t sway me,” Patinkin said. “When you’re a columnist putting your personality out there and people disagree with you, they say, ‘You’re a disgrace to humanity,’ so it gets very personal.”

Later in the show, Dan and Eli discussed the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.”

Dan’s picks

• Records reveal R.I. pediatrician wrote more than a hundred prescriptions for his own daughter by Amanda Milkovits, Boston Globe
• Union leans on lawmakers to keep School Budget Commission on track by John Howell, Warwick Beacon

Eli’s picks

• As winter heating costs rise, so does consumer anxiety in Rhode Island, poll finds by Alexander Castro, Rhode Island Current
• BROKEN NEWS? Outlets in search of sustainable community journalism model by John Lahtinen, Providence Business News

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

For decades, the Patriarca Crime Family ran a shadow government from Federal Hill, wielding power that rivaled public officials, private financiers and law enforcement on all levels.

Target 12 managing editor Tim White, 12 News chief videographer Johnny Villella and on-air marketing manager James Bartone joined host Eli Sherman to talk about the project that started nearly one year ago.

Episode 1: "The Hill" is currently streaming exclusively on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

The app is free to download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Samsung streaming platforms and TVs.

Episode 2: "The Fugitive" airs Monday, Dec. 1.

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

"Don't count us out because I believe that the trends right now are actually coming squarely over local news," Fox said. "People really want to know what is happening at their city hall, what is happening in their schools and what's happening next door."

Fox, who started reporting in high school for the Herald, has also had a career outside media, working as a communications specialist. She worked both privately and for various government agencies and politicians, including former Gov. Gina Raimondo and Rep. Jim Langevin. (She also ran and lost for a seat in the U.S. House in 2022.)

In recent weeks, Fox's team has been looking into an issue in Cranston where there's been a proposal to end the long practice of publishing special meetings in the local newspaper. Local governments often pay to advertise meetings in local news outlets, which means the advertisements help Fox's business. But she also highlighted that doing away with such advertisements damages transparency in government, and there are questions still circling around how the proposal emerged.

"I am confident to say the Cranston Herald won't go out of business over legal ads, and that's good," she said. "To me, the larger issue is we should be increasing transparency and the ease of it for people to access information."

Later in the show, Kim and Eli discussed the "Stories We Wish We Wrote," which included a cooking segment Kim did for "The Rhode Show" ahead of Thanksgiving. Other stories included (not all mentioned on air):

Kim's picks

• Inspector General uncovers ‘grossly mismanaged’ Pope’s Island Marina by Colin Hogan, The New Bedford Light
• The Last Don of Providence by the Target 12 Investigators and 12 News.

Eli’s picks

• Family disputes police account in death of Woonsocket man by Corey Plante, The Valley Breeze
• RI Energy drops plan for $150 million in winter bill discounts by Ted Nesi and Sarah Guernelli, 12 News

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Recently, he’s covered a developing controversy in his hometown of Smithfield, where there have been allegations of antisemitic hazing involving the high school football team.

An attorney representing the accused players has disputed the allegations, which were filed as a complaint with the R.I. Attorney General’s Office.

Fitzpatrick said the controversy has been scrutinized by many in the town, along with broader Rhode Island and multiple Jewish advocacy groups.

“This has been a big deal in the community,” Fitzpatrick said.

“It has divided the community,” he added. “You had people out there really concerned about what this says about Smithfield.”

In another segment of the show, Fitzpatrick talked about how there have been many decisions coming out of Rhode Island U.S. District Court challenging the policies of President Donald Trump’s administration.

Many of those decisions were made by U.S. District Chief Judge John McConnell, which has made him the focus of nationwide scrutiny.

Fitzpatrick has covered McConnell during his time on the federal bench, including recent criticism that has ramped up after his most recent decision requiring the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP benefits in November, despite the government shutdown.

“People have threatened him even before this case came into focus,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s an issue that divides people and it has politics involved.”

Later in the show, Dan and Eli discussed the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They included:

Dan’s picks

• A tattoo artist lands in an unexpected role in Maine’s Senate race by Kimberlee Kruesi, The Associated Press
• The average SNAP recipient gets $6 a day. What’s it like to live on that little? by Antonia Noori Farzan, The Providence Journal

Eli’s picks

• Grassroots movement takes on Eversource by Abigail Pritchard McNulty, The New Bedford Light
• Mayor: Employees’ union exit ‘on the shelf for now’ by Ethan Shorey, The Valley Breeze

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Klamkin is recognizable for being at the forefront of media scrums over the years. But he's also well-known for the unique signoff he's had at the end of news reports for WPRO radio: "Steve Klamkin, WPRO News."

"I don't have a big booming voice, I never have," Klamkin said Wednesday. "The signoff from my stories over the years — it just happened and I never gave it a thought. And then people started saying it back to me ... so I thought, 'I guess it's a thing.' Well, come to find out, it's a thing."

Klamkin recently entered semiretirement, but he's continued to report for Latino Public Radio, which now broadcasts entirely online. Klamkin said he's hard back to work, interviewing multiple people himself before appearing as a guest on the show.

"It's been great fun," Klamkin said.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli discussed the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They included:

Kim’s picks

• At nearly 108, this Middletown woman may be the second-oldest living RIer. What's her secret? by Antonia Noori Farzan, The Providence Journal
• Meet the Providence 5th-graders running their own newsroom by Ben Berke, Ocean State Media

Eli’s picks

• THE ‘AMAZON EFFECT’: Warehouse looms over Johnston, but will it fulfill economic promise? by Matthew McNulty, Providence Business News
•  

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe

McNamara, who also runs the website KevinMcSports.com, said he's unsure whether Providence College, the University of Rhode Island or Bryant University will make the NCAA Tournament this season.

But he said the Friars may have a competitive advantage because the program has been spending big money under new rules that allow colleges to pay student-athletes up to a combined $20 million.

"At Providence, it's men's and women's basketball, hockey, some cross-country teams," he said. "But the focus is certainly men's basketball. No one knows how much Providence is investing in their men's basketball team this year. But it's new, and I can tell you, it's a lot of money."

McNamara also discussed last week's illegal gambling scandal involving the NBA and the New York Mafia. The FBI indicted big-name players and coaches, alleging game-rigging and coordination with gambling operators.

The scandal has fueled skepticism of sports betting and how it's affecting the integrity of competitive athletics. McNamara said it's something college sports need to examine more closely, as there have already been issues bubbling up at some schools across the country.

"Those are kids who did not or do not make much money, beyond their scholarship," he said. "They've gotten in trouble with sports gambling because it's legal and it's everywhere. And you think about how many people they come in contact with on a given day on campus, in their communities who say, 'Hey, you want to make an easy $5,000 to $10,000?'"

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the "Stories We Wish We Wrote." They include (not all mentioned on-air):

Dan’s picks

• Why Does Rhode Island Have Such a Full House? by Ellen Liberman, Rhode Island Monthly.
• Massive Schools Plan Proves Hard to Pin Down by Jonathan Howard, The Providence Eye.

Eli’s picks

• The Great New Bedford election ‘plunking’ controversy by Jack Spillane, The New Bedford Light
• Police chief clarifies speed camera hours by Jon Baker, Blackstone Valley's Call & Times.

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Hummel’s reporting showed forensic auditors determined a critical rod of the bridge that ultimately broke was likely corroding for up to 15 years, and several inspections that flagged issues with that section of the bridge largely went unchecked.

The new detail were not included in a draft report of the forensic audit that was made public last month.

“Sometimes what you leave out of the story can be the best part,” Hummel said, adding that state officials have not yet commented on the new findings. “That caught my attention.”

Hummel’s report comes as the General Assembly is preparing to hold another oversight hearing to examine the bridge issue, which has become a political headache and frustrated drivers for nearly two years.

Hummel suggested the hearing — which has not yet been scheduled — could help shed new light on the audit and what state officials directed investigators to examine.

“Until you get somebody from RIDOT under oath or you bring in [RIDOT Director Peter] Alviti, you may not get the answer to that,” he said.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on-air):

Dan’s picks

• Report will show ‘stunning’ scale of R.I. diocese’s mishandling of sexual abuse by clergy, Neronha says by Amanda Mikovits and Edward Fitzpatrick, The Boston Globe
• Legal joust erupts in court over alleged plan to sabotage, usurp King Richard’s Faire

Eli’s picks

• New R.I. cannabis retail licenses could be ready by May 2026. Not soon enough for some applicants. by Christopher Shea, Rhode Island Current (incorrectly attributed on-air to Alexander Castro, sorry!)
• Safety concerns persist at Woonsocket schools amid $100K in vandalism costs by Corey Plante, The Valley Breeze

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Hartley said no services were cut, but he underscored that the city still raised the overall tax levy to the state-capped limit of 4% for the next fiscal year.

“Municipal budgets today are very tight,” Hartley said. “Just to get the basic services and take care of your contractual increases takes up a lot of what you have room for. And so mostly, they said it’s not a great budget, it’s not perfect, but it’s the best we can do. And they passed it.”

Hartley also talked about the giant troll that was recently erected in town, and discussed the lasting effects of the closed westbound Washington Bridge, which connects East Providence to Providence.

“Rhode Islanders are very adaptable people,” Hartley said. “We kind of assume that things are going to be bad. And so I think at this point, almost two years in, we just know what to expect and that the bridge is going to be miserable and traffic’s going to take an extra half hour to get where you want to go.”

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include:

Kim’s picks

• Which Dunkin’ is the most Dunkin’ of all? An investigation. by Beth Teitell, The Boston Globe
• Rhode Island considers ending Medicaid coverage of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss by Alexandro Castro, Rhode Island Current

Eli’s picks

• HOSPITAL MAKEOVERS: Health systems look for shot in the arm from multimillion dollar projects by Katie Castellani, Providence Business News
• New tour biz offers tastes of SouthCoast aboard a double-decker bus by Ashley Schuler, The Fall River Herald News
• Everyone’s coverage of the Dartmouth plane crash on I-195

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Berke examined the Law Enforcement Officers Due Process Accountability and Transparency Act, or LEODPATA, and whether it's changed how officials handle cases of alleged police misconduct.

His reporting shows the law -- which replaced a previous version known as LEOBOR -- has struggled to deliver on some of the promises its champions touted when it passed last year.

"The experts I talked to said things like, 'this is a meaningful tweak,'" Berke said. "It's not going to really radically alter how police accountability is meted out in Rhode Island, but it might make the system more responsive than it was to really egregious cases."

His reporting also shed light on the fact that nobody was publicly posting new cases of alleged police misconduct, which is requirement under the new law.

"It didn't exist," Berke said, explaining it took him nearly two dozen emails and six weeks of work to track down the information that's supposed to be readily available to the public.

Following his report, the Post Officers Commission on Standards and Training, or POST, created a webpage with the cases currently going through LEODPATA hearings.

There are currently four cases underway, including two in South Kingstown and one in Tiverton and Westerly, respectively.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Dan’s picks

• An Instagram poster pulled the mask off the Washington Bridge audit. Their identity remains hidden by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current
• Top RI Realtor Threatens to Call ICE on Buyer, Then Offers $20,000 to Kill GoLocal Story by Josh Fenton, GoLocalProv

Eli’s picks

• A drone, golf balls and a gun: How shoreline access tensions erupted in Narragansett by Antonia Noori Farzan, The Providence Journal
• Offshore wind’s effects on fish won’t be studied due to federal cuts by Anastasia E. Lennon, The New Bedford Light

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

"I was uneasy to watch this really serious, literally life and death issue, get turned into campaign mudslinging where it's about scoring points," Eil said during a taping of the show on Wednesday. "The public gaze drifts away from the real stakes of this issue, which, as I noted in my piece, is ongoing."

Incumbent Gov. Dan McKee last month slammed Democratic rival Helena Foulkes when she announced she would challenge him again in next year's primary election.

The governor's campaign launched an attack ad, accusing Foulkes of helping to fuel the opioid crisis while she was as an executive at CVS Pharmacy.

Foulkes and CVS have fired back at McKee, and Foulkes has defended her record at the retail giant, saying she worked to reduce opioid prescriptions and stem to flow of drugs going to pill mills.

Eil offered some suggestions for how candidates could talk about the issue of opioids, along with the effect controlled substances are having on Rhode Island where more than 2,000 people have died from overdoses since 2020, according the R.I. Department of Health.

"There are real things gubernatorial candidates can do to affect this issue," he said. "Public health advocates would dream of the kind of airtime that these two people, Dan McKee and Helena Foulkes, are going to have in the coming months. I just wanted to encourage them to think about the people who have lost their lives."

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They included:

Kim's picks

‘Barrington Pisser’ tells police that the videos he posted were a hoax by EastBayRI

Patients are being 'dumped' and left at RI hospitals for months, even years. Why? by Jonny Williams and Antonia Noori Farzan, The Providence Journal

Eli’s picks

Glass from the past: why are there marbles in the Blackstone? by Sofia Barr, The Valley Breeze

New Bedford man builds a thriving eBay bike shop business: Check out House of Cogs by Kathryn Gallerani, The New Bedford Standard-Times

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Nesi said he's been getting a lot of feedback over the past week in response to comments about the Providence pension system made by state Rep. David Morales, who recently announced he's running for Providence.

Appearing on "Newsmakers" last week, Morales said he'd tackle the city's woefully underfunded pension plan in part by renegotiating pension benefits paid to out-of-state retirees.

Cutting pension benefits has long spurred contentious debate in Providence, and previous efforts have often resulted in lengthy legal battles. Nesi said Morales' comments quickly evoked a lot of calls and emails from retirees who were upset by Morales' proposed idea.

"Retirees see this very simply: They worked, they were promised a benefit -- it's the city's job to figure out how to pay them the benefit," Nesi said.

More broadly, Nesi discussed Morales' political career and his approach to taking on incumbent Brett Smiley, who's seen as more moderate candidate and has said he intends to run for reelection. The two Democrats would face off in a primary election next September.

"There's genuine disagreement between different flavors of Democrats right now," Nesi said.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include:

Dan’s picks

• Lax Enforcement, Lack of Awareness Result in Poor Recycling Ticket Returns in Providence by Colleen Cronin, ecoRI News. (Bonus: Cronin joined "Behind the Story" in July to talk about Providence recycling. You can watch the full episode here.)
• How AI is changing police work by John Howell, Warwick Beacon. (Another bonus: Howell joined "Behind the Story" in June. Full episode here.)

Eli’s picks

• McKee and Foulkes have our attention on R.I.’s opioid crisis. Here’s how they can earn our respect by Philip Eil, Rhode Island Current
• Westerly unveils new schools strategic plan by Ryan Blessing, The Westerly Sun

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

For years, Rueb has been reporting on youth and professional sports, and he expressed excitement over this year’s high school football season, which is officially underway.

“I’m going to watch Central Falls and East Greenwich on Thursday, and those are the games I love to see,” Rueb said. “Someone’s going to do something I’ve never seen before and that’s the reason why high school football should exist, and why people should love it.”

Rueb also talked about some of the issue surrounding sports, such as the importance of developing programs, whether private schools have competitive advantages over traditional public schools and the dangers of parents getting angry at referees during games.

“Being a jerk is never part of the game,” Rueb said. “It’s the kids that I feel bad for because [parents] don’t realize how they’re affecting their kids’ lives going forward.”

Rueb also offered a preview of his new new sports show “Blitz Breakdown,” which just launched this week on the 12+ TV app.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.”

Dan’s picks

• Pawtucket school officials delete plagiarized welcome message by Ethan Shorey, The Valley Breeze

Eli’s picks

• City Council to sue and filibuster Mayor Mitchell by Colin Hogan, The New Bedford Light
• TF Green Airport CEO gets new contract, raise. Here’s how much he will be making by Patrick Anderson, The Providence Journal

A special shoutout to 12 News politics editor Ted Nesi, who’s started a new series of digital-explainer reels covering complicated issues for Rhode Island PBS. Watch his first one here, examining the new “Taylor Swift” tax that will affect second-home owners beginning next July.

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Gagosz covers a variety of topics including business and she's been tracking the yearlong uncertainty over whether the toymaker would make an out-of-state move. Hasbro for the past century has been headquartered in Rhode Island.

The company announced this week it would indeed move to the Boston's Seaport, and a spokesperson said Hasbro will no longer have a corporate footprint in Rhode Island by the end of 2026.

Gagosz talked about her recent reporting on what losing Hasbro means for Pawtucket, along with the broader Rhode Island business community, along with what it means for the 700 people whose jobs are moving north.

In addition to discussing Hasbro, Gagosz talked about her newsletter dubbed "The Food Club," which takes readers behind the scenes of the regional food and restaurant industry.

Later in the show, Kim and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.”

Kim's picks

• Rhode Island Beaches Hosted Tiny Gelatinous Visitors This Summer: Salps by Isabella Jibilian, Rhode Island PBS/The Public's Radio
• Trick or treat? ‘The Conjuring’ house listed for auction on Halloween by Sarah Guernelli, 12 News

Eli’s picks

• Police investigating pornographic ‘Zoom bombing’ of New Bedford Board of Health meeting by Frank Mulligan, The New Bedford Standard-Times
• Coastal Agency Canceled Meeting to Vote on Lowering Quorum Requirements Due to Lack of Quorum by Rob Smith, ecoRI News
• Advocates: Save the Stephen Olney House by Ethan Shorey, The Valley Breeze

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Donnis is a longtime political reporter, who also hosts the show "Political Roundtable." He covers local, state and national politics, and this week he discussed Rhode Island's upcoming gubernatorial election in 2026.

Donnis also talked about the shifting landscape of public media in Rhode Island and across the country, along with the future of health care against the backdrop of a pending sale of Roger Williams and Our Lady of Fatima hospitals.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talked about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.”

Dan’s picks

• Westerly Planning Board’s rejection of housing plan upheld in Superior Court by Katie Castellani, Providence Business News
• Podcast: A newscast about a sea creature has become part of Ocean State lore by Edward Fitzpatrick, Boston Globe RI

Eli’s picks

• RI woman convicted in infamous 'stolen valor' case back in custody. What we know by Tom Mooney, The Providence Journal
• Christopher Silvia 'heartbroken' after ending campaign for Fall River mayor by Emily Scherny, The Fall River Herald News
• Who gets Christopher Silvia's mayoral race donations? What campaign finance law says by Dan Medeiros, The Fall River Herald News

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Lennon talked about what moves have been happening across the country leading up to stop-work order handed down last Friday to Revolution Wind, which project officials said was 80% completed.

She also discussed what's known so far about the security concerns cited as the reason for stop-work order, along with what other offshore wind projects are in the works and what this decision might mean for them.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Kim’s picks

• Cow pie star comes up empty in Little Compton by Christian Silvia, EastBayRI
• 'Impossible': Why potential bridge builders question RI's new Washington Bridge plans by Patrick Anderson, The Providence Journal

Eli’s picks

• While RIPTA Held Service Cut Hearings, McKee’s Office Scheduled Bus Hub Discussions with Paolino by Colleen Cronin, ecoRI News
• Lombardi sets new limit on yard waste after confrontation by Ethan Shorey, The Valley Breeze
• The RI Ethics Commission could double the gift limit for lawmakers. Should they? by Kathy Gregg, The Providence Journal
• Regionalization Ball in Middletown’s Court by Philip Cozzolino, Newport This Week

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Anderson is a government and politics reporter at the Projo, and he's part of a team of reporters who put together the newspaper's weekly Political Scene column.

The column this week focused on the governor's education agenda, which includes bolstering out-of-school learning for students to try and make up for education missed out on during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anderson discusses whether the policies are working, and what ground needs to be covered to achieve the governor's goal of closing a persisting gap between Rhode Island and Massachusetts standardize testing scores by 2030.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Dan’s picks

• Why the police log no longer names the accused by Joy Fox, Warwick Beacon
• As schools navigate AI, new guidance from R.I., Mass. urges adoption — and caution by Steph Machado, Boston Globe

Eli’s picks

• North Smithfield weighs humane fixes as beaver-caused flooding persists by Corey Plante, The Valley Breeze
• Noisy neighbors nag some residents nearby Main Street in Warren by Mike Rego, EastBayRI

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

White is managing editor and chief investigative reporter at 12 News, and he's been covering Alahverdian for years leading up to his criminal trial that began this week in Utah.

Alahverdian, a conman from Rhode Island, was a longtime critic of the state's child welfare agency until he got jammed up with the law and faked his own death in 2020.

White discusses Alahverdian's life in Rhode Island, his troubles with the law, getting discovered while using a fake identity in Scotland and his criminal trial in Utah.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Kim’s picks

• Report: R.I. child care providers not complying with health and safety regulations by Christopher Allen, Providence Business News
• Rocky Point's Corkscrew and Cyclone weren't the only roller coasters in RI. Here's a list by Savana Dunning, The Providence Journal

Eli’s picks

• New Bedford’s growing Hispanic population lags in voter turnout by Grace Ferguson, Tavishi Chattopadhyay and Jakob Moskowitz, The New Bedford Light
• $50 bills are popping up around Providence, thanks to this Instagram account. How it works by Nish Kohli, The Providence Journal

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Lavin is senior reporter for the independent, digital news outlet that focuses on state government and public policy. Lavin discusses ongoing financial issues in Woonsocket, which has seen its bond ratings yanked after struggling to get its annual financial reporting in order.

Lavin also talks about a recent feature she wrote about Sen. Pam Lauria, a Barrington Democrat, who made some power plays this past legislative session at the State House, helping to recast "her own reputation -- from quiet workhorse to change agent," according to Lavin.

Later in the show, Dan and Eli talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Dan's picks

• From ranking seaweed to working at Dunkin' Donuts, RI politicians share their summer jobs by Antonia Noori Farzan, The Providence Journal
• Future of former library building remains unclear by Allison Shinksey, Southern Rhode Island Newspapers

Eli’s picks

• Why more cranberry farmers are selling to conservationists, not developers by Crystal Yormick, The New Bedford Light
• Leadership at Rhode Island’s top economic development agency is in limbo at a critical moment for the state’s economy by Alexa Gagosz, Boston Globe RI

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Cronin is a Report for America fellow working at ecoRI News, a nonprofit news outlet that focuses on environmental news. She obtained years of recycling violations data that revealed Providence has ticketed most frequently in its poorest neighborhoods.

Cronin talks about how she gathered, analyzed and used the data to inform her reporting, along with how it led her to interviews with key community members.

She also learned that ticketing has begun to ramp up again after a lull during the COVID-19 pandemic and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley's first year in office.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Kim's picks

• State may miss DCYF lease renewal deadline. Here’s why union workers are OK with that. by Christopher Shea and Alexander Castro, Rhode Island Current
• Why a decade-old fight over bake sales at RI polling places is rising again by Katherine Gregg, The Providence Journal

Eli’s picks

• Locals recount the ‘craziest’ moments they’ve seen in South County by Bill Seymour, The Independent
• How did Dante Bellini convince Ken Burns to do a biopic? First he had to change careers by Mark Patinkin, The Providence Journal

A special shoutout this week to some really cool new shows launching on our new WPRI 12+ TV app:

• Johnny Villella and Mike Montecalvo have created a podcast-style show called "Street Stories Unpaved," a spinoff of their amazing weekly TV segment "Street Stories"
• Sarah Guernelli has started her own 30-minute show called "12 Responds," which goes in-depth on consumer-related issues and stories she covers on the investigative consumer beat

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

The USL team owners said they wanted to move into the city shortly after the Pawtucket Red Sox announced a move to Worcester. The soccer team started playing home games in the new stadium this spring.

Shorey talks about how the new team, along with a handful of new housing developments springing up near the new Pawtucket-Central Falls train station, are affecting the city.

He also talks about city politics, including new candidate Adam Greenman, who's announced he's running against incumbent Mayor Donald Grebien in 2026.

Later in the show, Eli and Dan talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Dan's picks

• Judicial Nominating Commission forwards five names to McKee for District Court opening by Christopher Shea, Rhode Island Current
• Brown Health considers closing more facilities. Why it's being called 'catastrophic' by Jonny Williams, The Providence Journal

Eli’s picks

• Fifty years ago, a terrible accident, a friend lost by Manual C. "Manny" Correira, Bristol Phoenix
• Rhode Island needs a full-court press to land the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun by Dan McGowan, The Boston Globe RI
• 'These women are worth saving': How a new program helps RI women getting out of prison by Katie Mulvaney, The Providence Journal

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Medeiros is senior digital producer at the city's newspaper of record.

He lives and works in Fall River, which experienced one of its deadliest fires in recent history on Sunday. The fire broke out at the assisted-living facility Gabriel House and killed nine people, sending many more to the hospital and displacing dozens.

Medeiros talks about how the story unfolded, the people who died and how the city responded at a time when firefighters says they don't have enough staff to adequately put out fires.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include:

Kim's picks

• Sewage-contaminated water made 60% of R.I. beaches unsafe for swimming in 2024 by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current
• Meet the dog whose fluffy face brings joy to Providence’s East Side by Johnny Villella and Sarah Bawden, 12 News

Eli’s picks

• 'It's deplorable': Residents, council plead to keep Newport Hospital birthing center open by Savan Dunning, The Newport Daily News
• Westerly takes closer look at short-term rentals by Ryan Blessing, The Westerly Sun

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

Granahan is host of the Tara Granahan Show, weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon on NewsTalk 630 WPRO and 99.7FM.

She talks about what goes into putting together a show each day, what topics tend to resonate most with listeners and why she's seen a deterioration in journalists' ability to access government officials overseeing taxpayer dollars.

Later in the show, Eli and Dan talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include (not all mentioned on air):

Dan's picks

• ‘Significant cuts’ possible after Trump administration withholds $29 million from R.I. education by Steph Machado, Boston Globe
• Celtics Reset Is About “Aprons” and Money by Kevin Stacom, GoLocalProv
• Where They Stand: Democratic candidates for RI Senate District 4 by Raymond Baccari, 12 News

Eli’s picks

• Lizzie Borden on Netflix: 'American Horror Story' creator Ryan Murphy finds next 'Monster' by Dan Medeiros, The Herald News
• Rhode Island regulators find ‘deficiencies’ at Butler Hospital by Lynn Arditi, Rhode Island PBS/The Public's Radio
• 'A never-ending project': State's only wild bird rehab center needs funds to complete its facility by Alex Kuffner, The Providence Journal

Watch “Behind the Story” Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

“Behind the Story” is hosted by Eli

Coelho talks about why she chose to write the book, which explores different ways people can spend a day (or multiple days) eating and drinking their way through some of the most popular and unique restaurants, bars and neighborhoods across Rhode Island.

Coelho also discusses her unique social media account centered around bathroom selfies, along with some of the recent work that's been happening at Rhode Island Monthly.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They include:

Kim's picks

• Forget QR codes, these menus were fun by Gail Ciampa, The Providence Journal
• RI man’s surgery canceled with end of Brown Health, UHC Medicare Advantage contract by Sarah Guernelli, 12 News

Eli's picks

• Long, hot 'cut night' reduces city budget by $10 million by Colin Hogan, The New Bedford Light
• Tariffs help contribute to higher costs for fireworks by Ethan Shorey, Corey Plant and Luzjennifer Martinez, The Valley Breeze

Watch "Behind the Story" Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

• How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence), and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

"Behind the Story" is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim

Farzan discusses the Great Hurricane of 1938 that destroyed a roadway that's now at the center of a legal fight that the Watch Hill Fire District has leveled against the town. She discusses what went into gathering the story, what people are saying about it and a ongoing recall effort that's spun out of the dispute.

Later in the show, Eli and Dan talk about the “Stories We Wish We Wrote.” They included:

• How Rhode Island is attempting to stem the tide by Ellen Liberman, Rhode Island Monthly
• How safe are Rhode Island’s other bridges? by David Wright, Rhode Island PBS/The Public's Radio
• RITBA won’t release Mt. Hope Bridge inspection report, citing security by Tim White, 12 News

Watch Behind the Story Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

The show is hosted by Eli Sherman and Kim Kalunian of 12 News, along with Dan McGowan of the Boston Globe.

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence) and will be available

Howell goes behind the scenes on the issue, having landed a one-on-one interview with Mary Marran, president of Butler Hospital. He's also been spending his days at the picket line talking with health care workers about the strike that's spanned more than a month.

Later in the show, Eli and Kim talk about the "Stories We Wish We Wrote." They included:

• Remembering the electric trolley that once ran through Lincoln by Sophia Barr, The Valley Breeze
• Bitter battle over Johnson's Pond continues as former owner files federal lawsuit, Jim Hummel, The Hummel Report/The Providence Journal
• Blue parrot swears a blue streak: Caring for this pet bird isn't for the 'faint of heart', Dan Medeiros, The Fall River Herald News

Watch Behind the Story Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.How to download the free WPRI 12+ smart TV app

It airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence) and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.

Our new show, Behind the Story, gives you an inside look at local journalism through conversations with the reporters who break the big headlines.

In this week's premiere, host Eli Sherman sits down with 12 News anchor Kim Kalunian and Boston Globe RI columnist Dan McGowan to discuss how they each got their start. Plus, Kim highlights her series on local Cold Cases, Dan talks about his daily Rhode Map newsletter, and the trio goes over some recent news stories that stood out to them.

Watch Behind the Story Thursdays at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the WPRI 12+ TV app.

The show also airs on TV (Sundays at 8 a.m. on FOX Providence and 11 a.m. on The CW Providence) and will be available on demand through the WPRI 12+ app and right here on WPRI.com.