Sunday’s demonstration at the Rhode Island State House was hosted by the youth group “Gen Z: We Want to Live.”
Joe Tasca
The local voice on Weekend Edition for several years, Joe stepped into the role of morning producer in October 2023. Joe is also a reporter, covering stories in the field and conducting interviews with newsmakers.
From an early age, Joe was determined to become a broadcaster, and began his broadcast career as a high school student. His first job was working as a newscaster and engineer for WERI, a full-service radio station in his hometown of Westerly. Prior to coming to The Public's Radio in 2018, Joe spent 15 years as a news anchor and reporter for a cluster of six radio stations in eastern Connecticut.
He graduated from Westerly High and earned his bachelor's degree from Quinnipiac University. When he's not working, he enjoys reading, writing, hiking, playing golf, and traveling to Canada.
Posted inArticle, Politics
Westerly police chief says defunding movement is misguided
Chief Shawn Lacey says defunding local police departments would jeopardize community relations and public safety.
Posted inArticle, Politics
Few protesters in Cranston following nighttime curfew
Police were out in full force in Cranston last night following reports of a possible protest at the Garden City Shopping Center. But the night was relatively quiet.
Posted inArticle, Arts And Culture
Restrictions on outdoor events prove frustrating for organizers
Several Rhode Island communities are hoping to hold scaled-down outdoor festivals this summer. But the process of getting those events approved is seen by some organizers as arbitrary and unfair.
Posted inArticle, Arts And Culture
75 years later, Rhode Island war vet fondly remembers his service in World War 2
Today marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2 in Europe. Hope Valley resident Dave Mann earned a Purple Heart while fighting the German Army in 1944. Joe Tasca spoke with Mann about his near-death experience and the legacy of the deadliest war in history.
Posted inArticle, Business
Foster bartender faces uncertain future as shutdown continues
Many people who work in the food service industry remain unemployed as the business shutdown continues in Rhode Island. Allison Blanco of Foster works at Lucky’s Bar and Pizza. She’s been out of work since returning from vacation in mid-March. Joe Tasca spoke with her about the challenges of unemployment.
Posted inArticle, Health
Raimondo signs directive requiring face masks in public places
The Rhode Island governor says adjusting to a ‘new normal’ will require patience and flexibility.
Posted inArticle, Business
Ice cream parlor perseveres during shutdown
For the past eight years, Mel’s Downtown Creamery has provided the Westerly area with quality ice cream year-round. Joe Tasca spoke with owner Melanie Goggin about her journey through the ongoing business shutdown.
Posted inArticle, Business
Coventry restaurant thrives during business shutdown
While many sit-down restaurants in Rhode Island are struggling during the COVID-19 crisis, Pat’s Italian Restaurant in Coventry has managed to retain most of its pre-shutdown business. Joe Tasca spoke with owner Greg Stevens about how Pat’s has been able to maintain the momentum it’s built since opening in February.
Posted inArticle, Health
Raimondo signs directive to expand health care access in Rhode Island
The governor says her executive order will help patients seek the care they need and allow physicians to provide better services.