Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will join What’sUpNewp for his next monthly live conversation, “Ask The City Manager,” on Wednesday, February 19, at 11 am. What questions do you have for the City Manager? Leave them below, and we’ll answer as many as possible during the live broadcast. During our 30-minute conversation, we’ll address various […]
People & Profiles
Posted inNews
Black History Month – Dr. Harriet Alleyne Rice: A native Newport Black History heroine that is largely unknown in the city of her birth
The following was written for What’s Up Newp by Keith Stokes, Vice President of the 1696 Heritage Group. This story was originally published on Feb. 11 ,2021. A native Newport Black History heroine that is largely unknown in the city of her birth. Harriet Alleyne Rice was born to George and Lucinda Rice in 1866 in […]
Posted inCity & Government, People & Profiles
Listen: A conversation with Scott Wolf of Grow Smart, a leading advocate for responsible growth in R.I.
Grow Smart Rhode Island has been the leading organization in the state, advocating for affordable and workforce housing, walking cities, improved transportation, and responsible zoning. Scott Wolf, executive director of Grow Smart, joins us for this podcast. Scott talks about how Newport and Westerly, East Providence, and Woonsocket have been leaders in developing walkable communities, […]
Posted inBusiness
Significant voice for the homeless retires
For four decades, Russ Partridge has served the homeless community, from Crossroads in Providence to the WARM Center in Westerly, where he has been executive director for 17 years. He has earned a reputation statewide for the work he has done, the expertise he has shared, and as a voice for those silenced by poverty […]
Posted inCity & Government
Ask the Superintendent: A live conversation with Colleen Burns Jermain (Jan. 29)
Newport Public Schools’ Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain will join What’sUpNewp for her next monthly live conversation, “Ask The Superintendent”, on Wednesday, January 29, at 1:30 pm. During our 30-minute conversation, we’ll address a variety of topics, ask various questions, and look for updates on ongoing issues. What questions do you have for the Superintendent? Leave […]
Posted inBusiness
Newport Hospital appoints Sarah Nekrasz as Chief Nursing Officer
Newport Hospital this week announced the appointment of Sarah Nekrasz, MSN, RN, BC, FPCC as the new Chief Nursing Officer (CNO). Sarah has been serving in this role on an interim basis since September 2024 and has been an integral part of the nursing team here at Newport Hospital for more than 26 years. “Over her decades […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Sports
Newport Gulls: Michael Falcone takes his talents to Europe
By Chuck Paiva, General Manager of Newport Gulls. This story originally appeared here. Long-time Newport Gulls Director of Baseball Operations, Michael Falcone, has moved on to an exciting new chapter in his career. Michael has taken his talents overseas to Belgium, where he will be working with RFC Liège, a professional football club in the […]
Posted inBusiness
Hinckley appoints Gavin McClintock as new CEO
Yacht maker Hinckley today announced that it has tapped Gavin McClintock as its new Chief Executive Officer. McClintock brings experience from his previous role as Chief Financial Officer at Safe Harbor Marinas and as the founder of marina group Tidekeeper. He’s now at the helm of the 95-year-old company. In his new position, McClintock plans […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Meet Amy Allen, the songwriter behind the music stuck in your head
By ELISE RYAN Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — Amy Allen might not yet be a household name, but her work lives in your brain rent-free. And it’s grabbed the attention of the Grammys. The 32-year-old songwriter has composed enduring hits with Halsey (“Without Me”), Selena Gomez (“Back to You”) and Tate McRae (“Greedy”). Her contributions to Harry Styles’ “Harry’s […]
Posted inCity & Government
Ask the Superintendent: A live conversation with Colleen Burns Jermain (Dec. 18)
Newport Public Schools’ Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain will join What’sUpNewp for her next monthly live conversation, “Ask The Superintendent”, with What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, December 18, at 1:30 pm. During our 30-minute conversation, we’ll address various topics, ask various questions, and look for updates on ongoing issues. What questions do you have for the Superintendent? Leave […]
Posted inNews
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will join What’sUpNewp for a one-on-one conversation on Dec. 18
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will join What’sUpNewp for his next monthly live conversation with What’sUpNewp, “Ask The City Manager”, on Wednesday, December 18, at 10 am. During our 30-minute conversation, we’ll address various topics, ask various questions, and look for updates on ongoing issues. What questions do you have for the Superintendent? Leave them […]
Posted inCity & Government
Charlie Holder reflects on his first two weeks as Newport’s Mayor
Newport Mayor Charlie Holder is setting a tone of collaboration and transparency as he begins his tenure leading the city council. In a one-on-one conversation with What’sUpNewp on December 12, Holder emphasized the importance of working together and maintaining open communication with residents. The newly elected mayor/council chair outlined his approach to chairing council meetings, […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Newport Mayor Charlie Holder to join What’sUpNewp for a live one-on-one conversation
Newport’s new Mayor Charlie Holder is kicking off his monthly Q&A series with What’sUpNewp, starting Thursday, December 12. This 30-minute live chat will begin at 10 a.m., the day after Holder’s first City Council meeting as Mayor/CouncilChair on December 11. Have a question for the Mayor? You can submit your questions below and tune in […]
Posted inNews
U.S. Naval War College bids farewell to Adm. Guillermo E. Barrera
Former Commander of the Colombian Navy Adm. Guillermo E. Barrera has retired as the first ever Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Distinguished International Fellow at the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) in Newport, Rhode Island, after 13 years of service. Selected in 2011, Barrera was the first of four international fellows chosen by the CNO […]
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
Newport City Manager outlines next steps for approved $98.5 million bond; reasoning for new hires
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy provided updates on the city’s plans following the approval of a $98.5 million bond measure and discussed recent staffing changes during his monthly interview with What’s Up Newp on Thursday, November 21. The bond measure, approved by voters on November 5, gives the city authority to sell bonds over the […]
Posted inCity & Government
Ask The City Manager: A live conversation with Colin Kennedy (Nov. 21)
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will join What’sUpNewp for his next monthly live conversation with What’sUpNewp on Thursday, November 20, at 10 am. During our 30-minute conversation, we’ll address various topics, ask various questions, and look for updates on ongoing issues. What questions do you have for the Superintendent? Leave them below, and we’ll answer […]
Posted inCity & Government
Ask the Superintendent: A live conversation with Colleen Burns Jermain (Nov. 20)
Newport Public Schools’ Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain will join What’sUpNewp for her next monthly live conversation with What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, November 20, at 1:30 pm. During our 30-minute conversation, we’ll address various topics, ask various questions, and look for updates on ongoing issues. What questions do you have for the Superintendent? Leave them below, and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Preservation Society of Newport County gears up for holiday season with new offerings
The Preservation Society of Newport County is preparing for a bustling holiday season with a range of new offerings and ongoing projects. Trudy Coxe, President and CEO of the organization, shared details about upcoming events and initiatives in an interview with What’sUpNewp on Friday, November 1 The holiday festivities at Newport Mansions kick off on […]
Posted inElection
Senator Whitehouse proposes Supreme Court Ethics Reform, discusses Ukraine aid
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse is pushing for significant reforms to the U.S. Supreme Court, proposing two bills aimed at addressing ethical concerns and introducing term limits for justices. The Rhode Island Democrat, in a wide-ranging interview, outlined his plans to enhance accountability and transparency within the nation’s highest court. “I’ve got two bills that I think […]
Posted inArts & Culture
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Trudy Coxe, CEO & Executive Director of The Preservation Society of Newport County
Trudy Coxe, CEO & Executive Director of The Preservation Society of Newport County, will be interviewed live on WUN on Friday, November 1 at 3 pm. The conversation will focus on the organization’s work in preserving Newport County’s historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts, and social history; a conversation about this weekend’s Newport County days; and […]
Posted inNews
Newport School Superintendent provides updates on Rogers High School Construction and teacher negotiations
Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain provided updates on several key issues during her monthly interview with What’s Up Newp on Wednesday. The new Rogers High School construction project is progressing well, Jermain said. The building’s exterior is nearly finished, with brick work almost complete and utilities being connected. “It’s a stunning building,” Jermain said. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
International Tennis Hall of Fame hosts intimate Q&A with Wimbledon Champion Pat Cash
As a lifelong passionate tennis fan, I’ve seen my fair share of awesome matches. Several stand out, and Pat Cash’s exuberant win over Ivan Lendl at the 1987 Wimbledon is one of them. So of course I was thrilled that the Australian player was headlining a talk at the International Tennis Hall of Fame (ITHF) […]
Posted inArts & Culture
A conversation with Jacques Pépin: Cooking, happiness, and bringing people together
The Jacques Pépin conversation event at the Newport Wine and Food Festival was understandably sold out this year. For gourmands, who wouldn’t want to listen to the television personality talk about his 75-year experience in the industry? It was an incredible treat to hear from Pépin and his daughter, Claudine Pépin, about his career and […]
Posted inCity & Government
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Representative Lauren Carson
Representative Lauren Carson (D. Dist. 75, Newport) will join WUN for a one-on-one conversation at 10 am on Tuesday, October 22. Tune in to watch live as the conversation happens or anytime afterward on whatsupnewp.com. Have a question for our guest? Please leave it in the comments.
Posted inArts & Culture
Christie’s Americas’ Chairman Emeritus, Stephen Lash, is bringing his love of ocean liners and the era of art deco to Redwood Library
Stephen S. Lash has been an avid collector of artifacts from the great ocean liners from the art deco era of the 1920’s and 30’s. Having served at Christie’s for over 40 years—including his current stint as the Chairman Emeritus—the Boston native has developed a discerning eye for art, the sea and architecture. Lash was […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Manager addresses utility billing, early voting, and bond referendum
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy addressed several pressing issues during his monthly chat with What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, October 16, including utility billing concerns, early voting procedures, and the upcoming bond referendum. Kennedy reassured residents about the delayed September utility bills, urging them to wait for the October bills before taking action. “The October bills will […]
Posted inNews
Ask The City Manager: Colin Kennedy joins What’sUpNewp to discuss the bond question and more on Oct. 16
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will spend thirty minutes with What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, October 16, at 10 am, answering our and your questions about what’s happening in the City. October 16 is the first day of early voting for the upcoming General Election, and I plan on asking the City Manager questions and diving deeper […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport School Committee candidate Elizabeth “Beth” Cullen emphasizes new approaches, collaboration
Elizabeth “Beth” Cullen, a candidate for Newport School Committee, is emphasizing the need for new educational approaches and improved collaboration between city officials and educators as she campaigns for one of the open seats in the upcoming election. Cullen, a self-proclaimed fourth-generation Newporter with 30 years of experience in the local school system, believes her […]
Posted inElection
Incumbent Stephanie Winslow seeks re-election to Newport School Committee
Stephanie Winslow, an incumbent Newport School Committee member, is seeking re-election for what would be her third term. Winslow, who was initially appointed to fill a vacancy in March 2020, has been a key figure in policy reform and equity initiatives within the Newport Public Schools system. Winslow, a Newport native and computer programmer by […]
Posted inElection
Becky Bolan seeks re-election to Newport School Committee to see Rogers High School project through completion
Newport School Committee Chair Becky Bolan has announced that if she is re-elected in November that her next term would be her last, citing a desire to see the Rogers High School project through to completion. Bolan, who has served on the committee for approximately 17 years, made the announcement during an interview with Ryan […]
Posted inElection
Newport School Committee candidate Dr. Robert B. Power emphasizes need for auto tech and cosmetology at Rogers High School
Dr. Robert B. Power, a candidate for Newport School Committee, is making the inclusion of vocational programs at the new Rogers High School a central issue in his campaign. Power, who has a doctorate in school administration and has served as superintendent in three Rhode Island school districts, says he entered the race primarily to […]
Posted inCity & Government
Mark Aramli seeks re-election to Newport City Council, emphasizes financial challenges and tourism management
Mark Aramli, seeking re-election to Newport’s City Council At-Large, is sounding the alarm on the city’s financial challenges and calling for a new approach to managing tourism. In a interview with What’sUpNewp on Thursday, October 3, Aramli highlighted the fiscal imbalance he discovered during his first term and outlined his priorities for addressing these issues […]
Posted inBusiness
Salve Regina professor awarded NIH grant to research new treatments for common infection alongside undergraduate students
Salve Regina University today announced that Dr. Susan Meschwitz, a chemistry professor at the university, has been awarded a grant from the National Institute of Health to research treatments for urinary tract infections — which are experienced by 50-60% of women in their lifetime and highly recurrent. More from the announcement According to the National Institute […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Folk Festival taps Nathaniel Rateliff for new pioneering role
Newport Folk Festival today announced the creation of its Stewardship Program, appointing Nathaniel Rateliff as its inaugural steward. The program aims to identify individuals who enrich and support the festival’s legacy, challenging and celebrating the “Folk Family” through meaningful initiatives. Rateliff, chosen for his artistry, perseverance, and allyship, will serve a three-year term. He plans […]
Posted inElection, People & Profiles
Penny Hunt hopes to bring funding and leadership experience to Newport School Committee
Penelope “Penny” Billington Hunt, a newcomer to Newport politics, is running for a seat on the Newport School Committee with a focus on addressing funding challenges and leadership needs in the district. Hunt, who moved back to Newport in 2020 after living in the Boston area for 15 years, brings a background in nonprofit fundraising […]
Posted inCity & Government
Talkin’ Tourism: A conversation with Evan Smith, President & CEO of Discover Newport
Evan Smith, the President and CEO of Discover Newport, will join What’sUpNewp for a one-on-one live video conversation on Thursday, September 26, at 10:30 am. During this conversation, we’ll discuss the 2024 summer travel and tourism season, what’s ahead for the fall and winter, travel and tourism trends, the impacts of tourism and traffic, and […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Manager addresses infrastructure, $98 million bond, and residents’ concerns during What’sUpNewp conversation
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy addressed residents’ concerns about utility bills and infrastructure needs during What’sUpNewp’s Wednesday monthly “Ask the City Manager” session. What’sUpNewp’s newsletter allows supporters to listen to this conversation as a podcast. Become A What’sUpNewp Supporter Kennedy acknowledged the city “missed the mark” in rolling out recent changes to sewer and stormwater […]
Posted inBusiness
Aquidneck Community Table names Tuni Schartner as its first Chief Innovation and Development Officer
Today, the Aquidneck Community Table (ACT) announced Tuni Schartner’s appointment as its first Chief Innovation and Development Officer. The nonprofit said in a press release, “ACT is laser focused on building a local food system and economy in Newport County that is fair, resilient, and reflective of the diverse communities it serves. ” Schartner is […]
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
Ask The City Manager: Colin Kennedy joins What’sUpNewp for a one-on-one interview on Sept. 18
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will spend thirty minutes with What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, September 18, at 10 am, answering our and your questions about what’s happening in the City. What questions do you have for the City Manager? Post them below or here. Loading… Watch the interview live or anytime afterward below. Ask The City […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Comedian Tom Cotter on ‘No Apologies’ tour, coming to Jane Pickens Sept. 26 with comics Jim Florentine and Tammy Pescatelli
Comedian Tom Cotter makes no apologies … except for the time he had to apologize for a joke about the Pope. More on that later… The Providence native shared a few laughs earlier this week when I spoke to him on a call from his home in New York. With a career going back to […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
What’s Up Interview: ‘Prescription for Pain’ author Philip Eil, appearing at Charter Books on September 10
The opioid epidemic in the United States continues to destroy American lives and families. Over the past 25 years, more Americans have died from opioid abuse (over 750,000) than American soldiers killed in combat since World War I. It’s no longer a dirty little secret – the epidemic has been chronicled in books, articles, and […]
Posted inNews
Concert recap and photos: 2024 Rhode Island Folk Festival a big hit down by the river
The Rhode Island Folk Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary on Sunday, August 26, with over 40 performers, dozens of vendors and food trucks, and a guitar giveaway at Crescent Park in East Providence. The free festival enjoyed its largest crowd yet, with an estimated 2,500 fans in attendance. Fans young and old filled the sprawling […]
Posted inBusiness
Stories From The Garden: How the Maher Garden Center is reblooming into success
The roots Residents of Aquidneck Island may be familiar with the Maher Garden Center from their hand-made wreaths and Christmas trees. But the roots of the center run much deeper than the Christmas season. “The Maher Center itself started 76 years ago as a resource for parents with special needs kids,” Lynn Maher, the executive […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Interview: Meet Mark Stickney, Founder of Historic Music of Newport
Newport’s contemporary summer music scene is dominated by three internationally known festivals: Newport Folk, Newport Jazz, and Newport Classical. But the city’s musical heritage runs deep. Live music on the island is a tradition going back almost two hundred years, when classical musicians and military bands entertained summer visitors and year-round residents. One organization working […]
Posted inColumns
What’s in Season: Sweet corn and tomatoes from Fales Farm are classic end-of-summer staples
Crunchy, juicy, sweet, and acidic, corn and tomatoes are must-haves for a stocked summer pantry. Barbeque might come to mind first with this combination – thick slices of tomatoes stacked on a juicy burger, corn on the cob on the side. Corn cobs might be used in Cajun-style seafood boils, or, for those who have […]
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain provided updates on teacher contract negotiations, school construction, and plans for the upcoming academic year during her monthly virtual conversation with What’sUpNewp on July 31. Newport Schools Near Full Teacher Placement After Layoffs The Newport School District is close to fully placing teachers following recent layoffs, with only six […]
Posted inCity & Government
Exploring 2024-25 vision with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain on Wednesday videocast
This may be the dog days of summer, but for school administrators they are days filled with planning for a new school year, which in Newport begins September 6. Superintendent of Schools Colleen Burns Jermain joins WhatsUpNewp for her monthly videocast tomorrow (July 31) at 1:30 p.m. And there’s no shortage of subjects to address. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Folk Festival artists Steve Poltz and John Craigie reflect on their Newport Folk Festival experience
John Craigie is an L.A.-born singer-songwriter who infuses comedic storytelling into his performances. He’s been compared to Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, and he has collaborated with artists like Jack Johnson, Gregory Alan Isakov, and the Shook Twins. Seattle Newspaper The Stranger has called Craigie “…the lovechild of John Prine and Mitch Hedberg with a […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
From Bike Stage to Harbor Stage: Palmyra’s Newport Folk Festival journey
Palmyra, a folk band, performed at the Newport Folk Festival on Sunday, marking their third appearance at the event. The trio has played approximately 150 shows and recorded a new album in the past year. “We’ve been keeping busy, for sure,” said one of the band members during an interview with What’sUpNewp on Saturday. After […]
Posted inNews
StoryCorps launches “One Small Step” to bridge political divide
Since 2003, when David Isay founded StoryCorps, he has been on a mission of finding hope, even at the darkest times. Now, more than two decades later, StoryCorps has just launched One Small Step, a project meant to bridge the political divide. The intent is to produce thousands, perhaps millions, of one-on-one conversations between political […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Chef Peter Carvelli reflects on culinary honor, celebrating Foglia’s second anniversary
Four of Rhode Island’s top chefs brought a taste of the state’s “Classic Coast” to New York City on Thursday, showcasing the region’s evolving culinary scene at a sold-out dinner. The “Cooking on the Classic Coast” event, presented by Discover Newport, took place at Platform at Pier 57 by the James Beard Foundation. More than […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Giusto Chef William Reitzel reflects on Newport’s culinary evolution
Chef William Reitzel of Giusto restaurant in Newport sees the city’s culinary scene evolving beyond its traditional seafood fare. “It’s definitely evolving,” Reitzel said. “I started in Newport about 15 years ago and to the point of where it is today is completely different. It’s not just this tourist destination for clam cakes and chowder […]
Posted inNews
Newport Vineyards Chef Andy Teixeira aims to revolutionize farm-to-table dining
Newport Vineyards Executive Chef Andy Teixeira is growing more than just grapes at the 120-acre farm in Middletown, Rhode Island. Teixeira, a James Beard Award semifinalist, is cultivating a sustainable culinary program that includes housing for culinary students, four kitchens, and plans to grow bananas and figs. “We’re trying to be sustainable. We’re trying to […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Yagi Noodles’ Chef Basil Yu: From pop-up to James Beard finalist
Chef Basil Yu of Yagi Noodles in Newport is still processing his recent James Beard Award semifinalist nomination. “It’s still kind of a shock,” Yu told What’sUpNewp at a New York City event on Thursday night featuring four of Rhode Island’s James Beard Award semifinalists. “The list was something that I have looked up to […]
Posted inCity & Government
Watch: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
Newport Public Schools Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain faces challenges as the district grapples with funding issues and staffing changes ahead of the upcoming school year. A resolution before the Newport City Council proposes awarding the school building committee approximately $4 million for the Rogers High School construction project, with contingencies. The school district had initially […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Local artist Patrick Murphy unveils ‘House of Waves’ on Broadway
Patrick Murphy, a celebrated artist and photographer from Newport, is set to launch his latest venture, “House of Waves,” this Saturday at 154 Broadway. The new space promises to be a dynamic hub for creativity and community, embracing a spirit of innovation and flexibility. The Genesis of House of Waves The idea for House of […]
Posted inBusiness
Rachael Burns promoted to Assistant General Manager at Brenton Hotel
The Brenton Hotel announces Rachael Burns’s promotion to assistant general manager. Burns has served as the hotel’s director of sales and marketing since its opening in 2020. In her new position, Burns will oversee daily hotel operations, support the general manager with administrative tasks, handle all revenue, sales, and marketing efforts, and assist with staff training. “Rachael […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jake Shimabukuro may not be a household name, but he should be
Jake Shimabukuro, the ukulele virtuoso and composer from Hawaii, made an appearance through Spectacle Live before a sold-out crowd at Jane Pickens Theater on Saturday night. His abilities know no bounds and his stylings are unparalleled for any instrument but become even more remarkable when performed on a ukulele. He dazzled the audience with two […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: RI music legend John Cafferty, playing PPAC on July 13
In a little over a week, the Providence Performing Arts Center will come alive with the sounds of “Cool Summer Nights,” a series of concerts at the downtown theater featuring ticket prices as low as $10. Kicking off the series on June 22 is the world’s #1 Bruce Springsteen tribute band, Bruce in the USA. […]
Posted inBusiness
New small business, Newport Sailing Lessons, opens this summer
Aquidneck Islanders and Newport summer visitors alike will be delighted to discover new sailing opportunities out of Newport Harbor. Kate Richardson, a native Rhode Islander and U.S. Navy veteran, is now the proud small business owner of Newport Sailing Lessons. She runs the lessons out of her 1978 Pearson 30 sailboat, Hope, in Newport Harbor. […]
Posted inNews
Fort Adams Trust taps Regan Miner as its next Executive Director
Today, the Fort Adams Trust announced the recent hiring of Regan Miner as the organization’s new executive director. Miner is a public historian and historic preservation advocate. With over ten years of experience in historic preservation and nonprofit leadership, Miner will oversee programming and initiatives to support and promote the Fort’s mission while building partnerships […]
Posted inColumns
Gerry Goldstein: A steady hand, in war and the composing room
Tommy Plymesser, a gentle and soundly anchored soul, greeted the world just over 100 years ago during his home-birthed arrival on – ironically – Farewell Street in Newport. Later, during a long career in South County, he honed a particular skill: He could close his fingers around an idea, or a well-turned metaphor, and actually […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles
Conversation with the world’s leading ‘garbage artist;’ his trolls coming to Rhode Island
“Trash is treasure,” says Thomas Dambo, a Danish artist who has turned garbage into bigger-than-life sculptures, a giant swan in Denmark to trolls in Rhode Island. In a few days, on May 3, the first two of possibly six or seven trolls will take residence in Charlestown’s Ninigret Park. Dambo’s trolls, all built from recycled […]
Posted inNews
Charter Books to welcome Author Laird Hunt February 6 at 6PM
Story by Ruthie Wood Newport’s indie bookstore, Charter Books, is celebrating the release of Float Up, Sing Down, the new collection of short stories from Laird Hunt, in an evening with the author on February 6 at 6PM. Set in the same rural Indiana town as his 2021 novel Zorrie (a National Book Award Finalist), […]
Posted inNews
Moral complexity, empathy, and difficult conversations in the wake of the Israel-Hamas Conflict
Well before the attack on October 7, 2023, there were many, including many liberal Jews, who felt the Palestinian people suffered disproportionately at the hands of the Israeli government. In 2022, it led educator/playwright/actor Sandra Laub to craft her one-woman show, Picking Up Stones: An American Jew Wakes to a Nightmare. In the wake of […]
Posted inNews
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Deanna Lopes, Director of Paradigm Escape Rooms
Paradigm Escape Rooms on William Street is bringing interactive entertainment to Aquidneck Island with two newly designed, second-generation escape room experiences, fit for everyone, rain or shine. Deanna Lopes, Director of Paradigm Escape Rooms, joined What’sUpNewp at 2 pm on Monday, September 18 for a live virtual video conversation to tell us more about Paradigm […]
Posted inCity & Government
Watch: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joined What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation on Wednesday, September 6 at 1:30 pm. During the conversation, we discuss the new school year, and the latest on the Rogers High School construction project, and more.
Posted inArts & Culture
CUSP Gallery Brings Art Crowd to Broadway
Newport’s art scene could be on the cusp of transformation, thanks to a new gallery at 35 Broadway and the vision of its owner, Curtis Speer, an artist who relocated to Newport in November. Along with his partner, Tyler Martin, Speer moved his CUSP Gallery & Lifestyle from the well-established artist colony of Provincetown, MA […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Interview: We speak with Rising Stars at the Newport Jazz Festival
What’s Up Newp sat down with a trio of young artists at the Newport Jazz Festival last weekend. We met Matthew Whitaker, Julius Rodriguez and members of Butcher Brown at the festival. Here’s what they had to say. Butcher Brown Butcher Brown, a band of five artists from Richmond, Virginia, played the Quad Stage at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Louis Cato, TV late night bandleader, offers ‘Reflections,’ a new album of ‘laid bare, honest’ songs
By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Musician and producer Jack DeBoe recalls the time many years ago when he fully grasped the sheer musical ability of his new friend, Louis Cato. DeBoe and Cato were playing a gig in Boston when DeBoe got up from his drum kit for a break. […]
Posted inCity & Government
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Stephen Casey, Democratic Candidate for Congressional District 1
Stephen Casey, a Democratic Candidate for Rhode Island’s Congressional District 1, joined What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation at 2 pm on Thursday, August 3, 2023. During the interview, we learn more about Stephen, find out why he’s running in this special election, and discuss what he believes sets him apart from his opponents. […]
Posted inCity & Government
WUN-ON-ONE: Newport School Superintendent joins What’sUpNewp for a review of the past year, look at challenges ahead
Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joined WUN’s Ryan Belmore and Frank Prosnitz on the first day of summer school vacation to recap the year that was, talk about the challenges ahead, and more. Watch or listen to our conversation below.
Posted inArts & Culture
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with NewportOUT’s Sean O’Connor about Newport Pride Weekend
Newport Pride Weekend returns Friday, June 23, through Sunday, June 25. NewportOUT’s Sean O’Connor joined What’sUpNewp to provide details about Pride Weekend, give us some background and information on the new Pride Center in Newport, and more. For more information on Newport Pride Weekend or the Newport Pride Center, visit www.newportprideri.org. Watch or listen to […]
Posted inArts & Culture
WUN-ON-ONE: Salve grad discusses his latest novel, ‘Glass Bottle Season’
“Fletcher Michael’s GLASS BOTTLE SEASON is a closely observed coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of the insular culture of Newport royalty. This boozy, immersive novel will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or has experienced that painful passage between the last gasps of childhood and the beginnings of adulthood. It’s […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Cathleen Carr, Executive Director of newportFILM
Cathleen Carr, Executive Director of newportFILM, joined What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation today. During the conversation, Ryan Belmore and Cathleen discuss the upcoming newportFILM 2023 Outdoors lineup, which includes an exciting lineup of eleven world-class and award-winning documentaries. Patrick And The Whale kicks off the summer schedule on Thursday night at The Great Friends […]
Posted inCity & Government, People & Profiles
Mayor Xay joins What’sUpNewp for a WUN-ON-ONE conversation
Newport Mayor Xaykham (Xay) Khamsyvoravong joined What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation at 2 pm on Thursday, June 15. Among the topics, we recap the June 14 Regular Meeting of the Newport City Council and talk to the Mayor about the Cliff Walk, short-term rental application fees, the Rogers High School and Pell Bridge […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Facing education’s challenges: a conversation with Newport School Superintendent Jermain
For Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain, the 2022-23 school year has been one with considerable challenges, as the school system looks to the next school year to improve upon what was not a very promising “report card” by the Rhode Island Department of Education, a school building project that faces financial challenges, and an […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN videocasts Thursday: at 10 with Mayor Xay and at 2 with General Treasurer James Diossa
It’s a doubleheader today for WhatsUpNewp, with Newport Mayor Xay joining WUN for a videocast at 10 a.m. and General Treasurer James Diossa at 1. The mayor joins us for his regular appearance the day after a council meeting, and now a day after City Manager Joe Nicholson announced his retirement after 37 years of […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Evan Smith, President of Discover Newport
You may not know it but this week (May 7 – 13, 2023) is National Travel and Tourism Week. According to the U.S. Travel Association, National Travel and Tourism Week is “an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
Across Rhode Island, school systems are finding that the bond issues voters approved only a few months ago to build new, modern school buildings, are millions of dollars short of what they now expect the projects to cost. And so it is in Newport, where for months now educators have been trying to fill a […]
Posted inCity & Government, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
Colleen Burns Jermain, Newport’s Superintendent of Schools, joined What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, for her monthly live virtual video conversation. During our conversation, we discuss school safety, regionalization, construction at Rogers High School, mental health, teacher shortages, and more. Watch or listen to the conversation below; http://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/271114/private/0be5d6ef-e8ee-4c47-96c5-3fe1fed967d3.rss
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Heather Hole Strout, Executive Director of the MLK Center
Heather Hole Strout, Executive Director of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, joined What’sUpNewp at 11:30 am on Tuesday, March 28, for a virtual live video conversation. During the conversation, we chat with Heather about all that’s happening and new at the MLK Center, including an update on their big renovation, what services […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Dar Williams coming to Jane Pickens March 24
Aspiring songwriters, this show’s for you. Dar Williams, known as a “songwriter’s songwriter,” is coming to Newport’s Jane Pickens Film and Events Center for a show on March 24 at 8PM. Williams is out on tour in support of her latest album I’ll Meet You There as well as her new book How to Write […]
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joined What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, March 1 for our monthly live virtual video conversation. During our conversation, we touch base on regionalization, the new Rogers High School project, mental health issues, the COVID-19 learning gap, preparing students for the Blue Economy, and much more. Watch
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: We speak with children’s musician Laurie Berkner on the ‘kindie rock’ movement and more
Award-winning recording artist Laurie Berkner, widely recognized as the queen of children’s music, is bringing her show to the Greenwich Odeum Saturday, March 4 at 3PM. With over 22 million monthly streams, and millions of CDs and DVDs sold, Laurie’s songs have become much loved classics for children worldwide. It’s her first major tour since […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Sports
Q&A with new NCAA President Charlie Baker
By RALPH D. RUSSO AP College Sports Writer Former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker did a 30-minute interview with The Associated Press just days before he officially began his new job as NCAA president. He laid out goals for his first 100 days, including bringing in an independent firm to conduct a review of the NCAA, and touched […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Sports
New NCAA president says NIL rules could protect athletes
By RALPH D. RUSSO AP College Sports Writer As Charlie Baker takes over as NCAA president, he brings a different way of thinking about one of the most important and polarizing issues in college athletics: regulating how student-athletes monetize their fame. To Baker, athletes such as quarterback recruit Jaden Rashada and Miami basketball players Hanna […]
Posted inArts & Culture
4Qs with Deanna J. Conheeny: President of the Board of Directors for the Museum of Newport Irish History on 46th Annual Newport Irish Heritage Month
March is Irish Heritage Month, and Newport is gearing up to celebrate its rich Irish heritage and culture. The Museum of Newport Irish History, a non-profit organization established in 1996, is leading the effort to compile and sponsor the March calendar of community-wide events on its website. In a recent interview with What’sUpNewp, Deanna J. […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Dave Rosenberg reflects on the 35th Annual Newport Winter Festival
The Newport Winter Festival celebrated its 35th annual event from February 17 to 26, 2023, and Dave Rosenberg, Director of the Newport Winter Festival, was thrilled with the outcome. Fresh off the end of the festival, What’sUpNewp caught up with Rosenberg today for our “4Qs with” series. In the interview, Rosenberg reflected on this year’s […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, People & Profiles
Director of Marketing for Spectacle Live discusses the success of shows at The JPT and future plans
In a recent interview as part of the “4Qs with” series, Dan Berube, the Director of Marketing for Spectacle Live, discussed the success of the company’s shows at The Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center (The JPT) and its plans for the future. When asked about the decision to bring shows to Newport, Berube emphasized […]
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
Newport Police Chief Gary Silva reflects on his 40-year career and offers advice to future officers
In a recent interview with Newport Police Chief Gary Silva, he reflected on his 40-year career as a Newport police officer and his 12-year tenure as Chief. As part of our “4Qs with” series, Chief Silva answered questions about his proudest moments, advice for future police officers, and his retirement plans. When asked about his […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Ticket Giveaway: We interview Teddy Thompson, playing Newport Live show Friday, Feb. 24
Singer-songwriter Teddy Thompson is coming to Newport’s La Farge Arts Center (at the Newport Congregational Church) on Friday, February 24. Thanks to sponsor Newport Live, we’ve got a pair of tickets to the concert to give away. To enter, just e-mail Ken Abrams at mrabrams11@gmail.com by Wednesday, February 22 at 5PM with “Thompson Tickets” in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Julie Knitel of ‘Come From Away,’ playing PPAC this week
When we chatted, Julia Knitel and the cast of “Come From Away” was in Philadelphia. It was Super Bowl weekend, and the Philadelphia Eagles were in the big game. She laughed about that. “I’m not a sports fan by any stretch. I didn’t even know they were in the Super Bowl.” Knitel’s been with “Come […]
Posted inArts & Culture
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Dave Rosenberg, Newport Winter Festival
After taking a couple of years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Newport Winter Festival returns for its 35th edition from February 17-26, 2023. Dave Rosenberg, organizer of the Newport Winter Festival, will join What’sUpNewp for a WUN-ON-ONE conversation at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. During our discussion, Dave will chat with […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Jay Sweet and Dan Swain, Newport Festivals Foundation
Jay Sweet and Dan Swain, the Executive Director and Development Director of Newport Festivals Foundation, joined What’sUpNewp today for a conversation about the Foundation, the Newport Folk Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, and more. You can listen to our conversation here, or watch and listen below. More About The Newport Festivals Foundation Newport Festivals Foundation is […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
What’s Up Interview: Andrew Marlin of Watchhouse – duo coming to United Theatre in Westerly March 2
Roots/folk music fans should be looking west these days, at least as far as Westerly, RI. First up, keep an eye out for Watchhouse, coming to the United Theatre on March 2. (We’ll have previews of other shows scheduled there soon too!) The band consists of husband-wife team Andrew Marlin (vocals, mandolin, guitar, banjo) and […]
Posted inSports
AP Interview: Moltzan catching up to US teammate Shiffrin
By ANDREW DAMPF AP Sports Writer MERIBEL, France (AP) — When Paula Moltzan finished second behind Mikaela Shiffrin for the U.S. ski team’s first 1-2 finish in a women’s World Cup slalom in more than half a century, it was easy to assume that her more successful teammate was her main inspiration. Actually, it’s another American skier who Moltzan […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with G. Wayne Miller, Ocean State Stories
G. Wayne Miller, an award-winning journalist who recently retired from The Providence Journal after 41 years, joined What’sUpNewp on Tuesday, February 7 at 1 pm for a live virtual video conversation, where he shared a glimpse into his next journalistic project. Miller, the author of 20 books and a host on the Pell Center’s “Story […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: RI’s The Benji’s to release new album ‘Kitty Pills’ on February 14
A band that’s been percolating on the local scene over the past several years is especially excited to be releasing their new EP later this month. The Benji’s, who first played together in LA in 2014 and were Motif Magazine’s “Favorite Breakthrough Rock Act” in 2019, will release Kitty Pills, on February 14. I learned […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong
What’s the latest with the Pell Bridge Ramps project? Is school regionalization between Newport and Middletown still being discussed? What are members of Newport City Council focusing on and what can we expect to change in 2023? Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong joined What’sUpNewp this afternoon to answer those questions and discuss much more. Listen or […]