This one was a long time coming. Two days after the IMOCA fleet arrived in Genova, Italy, 11th Hour Racing Team arrived at the Grand Finale venue as worthy champions of The Ocean Race. WATCH THE REPLAY OF THEIR ARRIVAL HERE It is the first time in 50 years that an American-flagged team has won the race. […]
Ryan Belmore
Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020).
He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide.
Ryan is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, Online News Association, and Local Independent Online News Publishers. He is committed to the codes of ethics of these organizations: accuracy, independence, accountability, and transparency.
In Newport, Ryan served on the boards of the Fort Adams Trust and Potter League for Animals, and hosted a daily radio talk show for four years.
In 2021, Ryan moved to Alexandria, Virginia, to support his wife Jen's career. He launched The Alexandria Brief in 2025, applying what he learned in Newport to a new community. With the help of some talented on-the-ground contributors, he still runs What's Up Newp — and always will.
Contact: ryan@whatsupnewp.com.
Posted inSports
What’s Up Today: Thursday, June 29
Thursday, June 29 | By Ryan Belmore 🎉 Newport-based 11th Hour Racing Team has won The Ocean Race 2022-23, the world’s longest and toughest team sporting event – the first time a US team has won in the 50-year history of the Race. 🗳️ The Declaration Period for Congressional District 1 begins today. Candidates looking to replace David […]
Posted inSports
Garrett and Segura lead the Marlins past the Red Sox, 6-2
By MAUREEN MULLEN Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — Jean Segura hit a two-run single in a three-run sixth inning and the Miami Marlins beat the Boston Red Sox 6-2 on Wednesday night after a rain delay. “Really good baserunning. Our defense was really good. I just really liked the way they came out and played,” […]
Posted inCity & Government
AARP awards grants to Bike Newport and three other Rhode Island organizations as part of its Nationwide Program to make communities more livable
Today, AARP Rhode Island announced four organizations throughout the state will receive 2023 Community Challenge grants – part of the largest group of grantees to date with $3.6 million awarded among 310 organizations nationwide. Grantees will implement quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places; transportation; housing; digital connections; diversity, equity and […]
Posted inNews
Where to find 4th of July fireworks in Rhode Island
If you’re looking to enjoy a fireworks display over the Fourth Of July week and weekend, you’re in luck! There are many displays across Rhode Island to be enjoyed. This story may be updated as we receive updates, land earn of other events. Fourth of July Firework Displays across Rhode Island Saturday, July 1 Block […]
Posted inBusiness, Sports
Rhode Island Army National Guard joins Ocean Road 10K as Presenting Sponsor
The Rhode Island Army National Guard will be the presenting sponsor of the 2023 Ocean Road 10K on October 1st. The very popular road race, which starts at Point Judith Lighthouse and finishes at Narragansett Town Beach, draws a wide range of runners from near and far each year. The event, which is produced by […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment, Things To Do
Free outdoor concerts and film screenings to savor this summer in Newport County
Summer in Newport and live tunes, they’re a perfect match like clam cakes and chowder. Check out the array of free or donation-based outdoor musical delights this summer. Schedules are subject to change. This story will be updated as more schedules, and additional details are announced. Please check with event organizers/venues for the latest updates […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Today: Wednesday, June 28
Wednesday, June 28 | By Ryan Belmore 🎉 On this day in 1969, the Claiborne Pell Bridge opened to the public. 👉 Newport City Council is back to work tonight. At 5:45 pm, they’ll meet in Executive Session regarding the City Manager position. At 6:30 pm, they’ll host a Regular Council Meeting. Here’s a look […]
Posted inNews
‘Quiet Fireworks’ viewing at Beavertail will allow people with sensitivities to enjoy Newport’s display from across the Bay
DEM provided the following update at 8:33 am on July 5 – “Please be advised that DEM’s Quiet Fireworks viewing event at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown that was originally scheduled for tonight has been rescheduled to the rain date of Wednesday, July 5 from 9-10 PM, as the City of Newport’s fireworks display has […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Today: Tuesday, June 27
Tuesday, June 27. ⛵ Did you know that the first solo circumnavigation of the globe was completed in Newport, Rhode Island? Captain Joshua Slocum, a native of Novia Scotia, completed the feat on this day in 1898. 👉 Dark Shadows, an American Gothic soap opera, premiered on ABC on this day in 1966. Throughout the show’s run from 1966 […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
What’s Up at the Tiverton Public Library in July
The following is a list of library programs adults can enjoy in July. Patrons are encouraged to visit https://tivertonlibrary.org or call 401-625-6796 to learn more and to register. All Month Long One-on-One Tech Help Tech help is available to anyone who’d like to learn more about computers, mobile devices, library services, and more! We can also help […]
Posted inNews
‘Chosen Family’ wraps up filming in Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Film & TV Office announced today that Verdi Productions has finished filming Chosen Family, which was written, directed, and stars Heather Graham (Boogie Nights, Austin Powers). Julia Stiles (10 Things I Hate About You, The Bourne Identity) co-stars along with Thomas Lennon (Reno 911!), Michael Gross (Family Ties), Andrea Savage (Tulsa King), John Brotherton (Fuller House), Julie Halston (Addams Family Values), Odessa Rae (Hard Candy) and Ella Grace Helton (Hubie Halloween). This picture-postcard romantic […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport Police warning against scam phone calls
The Newport Police Department advises residents to beware of scam phone calls involving individuals impersonating Newport Police Department personnel or claiming to be affiliated with The Newport Police Department. The Police Department has received several complaints regarding phone calls from individuals impersonating Police Officers and requesting money. If you receive a call and have any […]
Posted inNews
Adoptable Dog of the Week: Noah
Meet your new best friend, Noah – this week’s adoptable dog of the week! Available for adoption at the Potter League for Animals in Middletown, Noah is a two-year-old male mixed breed. “This Noah, unlike the proverbial one who rode on an ark with all kinds of animals, loves his people so very much that […]
Posted inCity & Government
Legislation to improve RI’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure signed into law
STATE HOUSE– Legislation sponsored by Sen. Frank Lombardo III and Rep. Michelle E. McGaw to better prepare Rhode Island for the rapid growth of electric vehicles on the state’s roadways has been signed into law. The legislation (2023-H 5159aa, 2023-S 0988aa), which passed the General Assembly June 16 and was signed into law by Gov. Dan […]
Posted inBusiness
Topher Hamblett named Save The Bay’s interim executive director
Save The Bay’s Board of Directors today announced the appointment of Topher Hamblett to the position of interim executive director following the departure of 15-year executive director Jonathan Stone. Hamblett is Save The Bay’s director of advocacy and has been employed by the organization for 30 years. “Topher’s tenure has given him a comprehensive understanding […]
Posted inNews, Things To Do
What to know about the City Of Newport’s 4th of July Fireworks Display
The City of Newport will set off its traditional fireworks display over Newport Harbor on Tuesday, July 4. Weather permitting, this year’s display is scheduled to light up the harbor at approximately 9:15 pm on Tuesday, July 4th, with a rain date slated for Wednesday, July 5th. The display’s best viewing is anywhere along Newport […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Today: Monday, June 26
Sign up for our complimentary daily newsletter, and we’ll deliver this story straight to your inbox every morning! Monday, June 26. 👉 The Supreme Court is getting ready to decide some of its biggest cases of the term. The high court has ten opinions left to release over the next week before the justices begin their […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Today: Sunday, June 25
Get this story in your inbox every morning, sign up for our free daily newsletter! Sunday, June 25. ⚓ Last Wednesday, the folks at Charter Books collaborated with IRYS for a showing of Master and Commander: The Far Side of The World at the Jane Pickens Theater. Will Sofrin, author of his new book, All Hands On Deck, […]
Posted inCity & Government
Road Report: Schedule of lane closures and road construction projects (June 24 – 30)
The following road and lane closure notices have been scheduled by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA). All schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority June 24 – 30, 2023 No schedule published. Rhode Island Department of Transportation June 24 […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Today: Saturday, June 24
This is a What’sUpNewp newsletter. Sign up for our free newsletters to receive this in your inbox every morning, it’s free! Saturday, June 24 ⚾ The Gulls shut out the Navigators on Friday night as they took home 4-0 win at Cardines Field. The Gulls improved to 11-3 in the season and the Navigators falls to 4-10. 🆕 Gerry Goldstein’s latest […]
Posted inCity & Government
City of Newport: 2022 Newport Water Division Consumer Confidence Report is now available
The City of Newport’s Water Division has announced that the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) is now available on the City’s website at www.cityofnewport.com/ccr22. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act requires water systems to provide this annual report to all its consumers. The EPA established the requirements for report content, […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council will host a Regular City Council Meeting on June 28, here’s what’s on their agenda
Newport City Council will host their next Regular Council Meeting on Wednesday, June 28 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at Newport City Hall. The meeting is open to the public. Here’s a look at what’s on the agenda; This story was updated on June 26 due to the agenda being revised. CITY OF […]
Posted inSports, Things To Do
Newport Polo to host Newport versus Boston on June 24
Newport International Polo Series will feature an annual rivalry against Colonial foes, when Boston marches on Newport in the 2023 United States Polo Association Constitution Cup on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 5 pm. After a thrilling 6-chukker match last Saturday to witness Spain overtaking USA, the Polo Series continues this week with a revolutionary tournament that began […]
Posted inCity & Government
Governor McKee kicks off the 2023 Providence-Newport Ferry Season
Governor Dan McKee, Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Peter Alviti, Jr., Federal Highway Administration Rhode Island Division Administrator Derek Torey, Rhode Island Commerce Chief Marketing Officer Anika Kimble-Huntley, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, and Seastreak President James Baker today kicked off the 2023 Providence-Newport Ferry season. The popular service returns for its eighth season […]