With his singular persona as “America’s Nicest Judge,” Caprio (who died this week at age 88) became internationally known for kindness and empathy. IN MEMORIAM: Here are excerpts from just some of the many tributes to Judge Caprio. His 88 years of service to Providence and the entire state have made Rhode Island a much better place.”Gov. MEDIA: In another sign of how Trumpism is reaching into southern New England, The Public’s Radio and Rhode Island PBS are facing a reduction in staff through voluntary buyouts and — if necessary — layoffs. For public media in Rhode Island, that’s a reduction of $1.1 million a year.