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RI’s first head of the Cannabis Office has been tapped. Here’s what we know about her.

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RI’s first head of the Cannabis Office has been tapped. Here’s what we know about her.


Michelle A. Reddish has been tapped to be the first administrator of the Rhode Island Cannabis Office.

“Michelle’s significant expertise in regulatory compliance, development, and technological advancement position her to hit the ground running on day one,” said Governor Dan McKee in a news release. “I’m confident Michelle will effectively continue Rhode Island’s commitment to promoting the safe usage and responsible regulation of cannabis in our state.”

Kim Ahern, Chair of the Cannabis Control Commission, said of Reddish: “Her regulatory and industry experience will help ensure our Commission continues its thoughtful and thorough progress as we carefully expand the adult-use market in Rhode Island.

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More: How are recreational pot sales in RI a year after legalization? What the numbers show.

What does the administrator do?

The administrator coordinates the oversight and administration of cannabis use in Rhode Island, per state statute.

The position reports to the Cannabis Control Commission, which controls regulation, licensing, and enforcement requirements for cannabis establishments in Rhode Island, as well as policy for both adult use and medical cannabis.

Who is Michelle Reddish?

According to the news release, Reddish is the Chief Operating Officer at the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority, which oversees Oklahoma’s medical cannabis industry.

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She previously was the Chief Regulatory Officer at that same agency. In both positions, she focused on streamlining internal services, records retention and compliance.

Of the appointment, Reddish said: “I’m thrilled to move to beautiful Rhode Island with my children and step into the role of inaugural administrator. “I am eager to build strong partnerships across the state in support of safe and equitable access to cannabis. I sincerely thank Governor McKee and the Cannabis Control Commission for their trust and recommendation.”

What comes next?

Like many similar positions, Reddish’s appointment must go through the Senate for confirmation.

The news release said McKee has already submitted her name to the Senate for consideration.



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Rhode Island

First Major Heat Wave Of The Season Coming To RI

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First Major Heat Wave Of The Season Coming To RI


RHODE ISLAND — The first heat wave of the year is on its way to the Northeast, bringing the first round of 90-degree days to Rhode Island next week, according to Accuweather.

Millions of people in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic will be affected by the heat wave starting Monday, with the heat dome expected to continue to bake parts of the Southwest and interior Northwest all week, Accuweather said.

Rising temperatures will lead to a surge in electricity demand for cooling, putting pressure on the power grid to run air conditioners, according to AccuWeather’s Global Weather Center.

The forecast for Providence calls for temperatures reaching 93 degrees Thursday and 91 degrees Friday, The Weather Channel says.

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People in areas with temperatures reaching the 90s and 100s are “encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and take breaks in air-conditioned rooms or shaded areas,” AccuWeather said.

On average, heat waves kill more Americans than any other type of severe weather such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and lightning, according to AccuWeather.



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Rhode Island PrideFest brings thousands to celebrate in District Park

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Rhode Island PrideFest brings thousands to celebrate in District Park


PROVIDENCE, RI — Saturday marks the return of Rhode Island PrideFest.

Thousands of people packed District Park to celebrate love and pride. Many coming from all over New England.

“I love how big the queer community is,” said Celeste Weidemann.

“I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but it’s great to see all of these people celebrating love, being loved,” Weidemann said.

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The festival kicked off with more than 250 food vendors, non-profit organizations, and small businesses.

“It’s a beautiful day to be here surrounded around this many people. We feel all the love,” said Sean Aveler of Johnston.

“Love is love, so love who you want, love yourself,” Aveler added.

Rhode Island PrideFest had a positive effect for local businesses in the area with thousands of people flooding District Park.

Bayberry Garden owner, Tom Dennen, told NBC 10 that today is one of his busiest days of the year.

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“It’s great, we’re all down here celebrating the good vibes of PrideFest,” said Dennen.

“Great turn out, and people are happy and having a good time, it’s fantastic,” Dennen said.



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Malfunctioning steam room sets off alarm, prompts evacuation at Rhode Island YMCA

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Malfunctioning steam room sets off alarm, prompts evacuation at Rhode Island YMCA


MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (AP) — A malfunctioning steam room at a YMCA in Rhode Island pumped out so much steam that it triggered an a sprinkler system alarm on Saturday morning, prompting an evacuation.

In a statement, the Middletown Police Department said officials rushed to the Newport County YMCA in Middletown around 9 a.m. for a possible explosion but later learned an excessive amount of steam had set off the building’s emergency sprinkler system.

A 58-year-old woman was hurt but officials said it was a minor injury. The YMCA would remain closed Saturday, police said.

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