Photo via 12 Meter Charters Veterans – Our relatives, friends, neighbors and co-workers who committed to a cause larger than their own and accepted the challenge to defend our Nation. On this Veterans Day and everyday, we salute our Veterans and extend our gratitude for their service, dedication and sacrifices. Here is a list of Veterans […]
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.
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Morning News, Headlines and Notes (Nov. 11)
A roundup of today’s big stories that have to do with what’s happening, new and to do in and around Newport, RI… [the_ad_group id=”61″] The Latest Newport, RI Headlines One of the 1st African-American Marines honored posthumously (ABC6)New England long snapper Joe Cardona is a Patriot and a patriot (Wicked Local)RI gambling revenues outpacing projections (Projo) [wp-rss-aggregator]
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Foley’s On Broadway is Now Under Contract
What’sUpNewp has learned that Foley’s on Broadway, located at 105 Broadway, is now under contract. A binding contract has been signed, subject to meeting certain contingency conditions, and the seller wishes to solicit back-up offers. While the contract and sale could fall through, “Under Contract” means that the sellers have accepted an offer from a buyer, […]
Posted inFood & Drink, Style & Shop, Things To Do
Bowen’s Wharf to Host Holiday Block Party and Christmas Tree Lighting
All photos by Trixie Wadson/Bowen’s Wharf This year’s countdown to Christmas kicks off November 27 with a wharf-wide Holiday Block Party (Facebook Event) and boat parade. The waterfront at Bowen’s Wharf offers exceptional views of the City of Newport’s Illuminated Boat Parade starting at 6:15pm. The Bowen’s Wharf unique boutiques and restaurants will be offering […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Food & Drink
The Mintones Long Run of Playing Every Friday Night at Tavern on Broadway Has Come To An End
Since June of 2013, The Mintones have been bringing live reggae music to the Tavern On Broadway every Friday night. Let us repeat that, EVERY single Friday night for the last 2 1/2 years if you went into Tavern On Broadway between the hours of 10 p.m. – 1 a.m. you’d catch The Mintones (and often times many […]
Posted inFood & Drink
(VIDEO) In The Rhode Show Kitchen: Chef Matthew Reilly from “Malt” on November 10th
Chef Matthew Reilly from “Malt” stopped by The Rhode Show kitchen on Tuesday, November 10th. The appearance was made by possible by Discover Newport to promote Newport Restaurant Week, being held at 57 restaurants throughout Newport and Bristol Counties. Chef Reilly made roasted cod with winter squash quinoa for The Rhode Show crew, the dish can […]
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Justin Bieber Surprises Superfan from Portsmouth, RI on The Ellen DeGeneres Show
In case you didn’t know, it’s “Bieber Week” on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. DeGeneres and Bieber thought that this would be the perfect opportunity for Justin to surprise some of his biggest fans with tickets to the pop-stars upcoming show on Friday, November 13th. Among those that were surprised was Katelyn Turano from Portsmouth, RI. Turano […]
Posted inFood & Drink
You Can Now See Inside 4 Newport Restaurants with Google Business View Virtual Tours
Photo: Brick Alley Pub Planning a night out, looking to find a venue for an event or miss Newport and want to take a look inside your favorite Newport restaurant from afar? There’s a virtual tour for that! Four local restaurants in Newport, RI are now using Google Business View Virtual Tours to give people […]
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Newport Morning News and Notes | October 10
A roundup of today’s big stories that have to do with what’s happening, new and to do in and around Newport, RI… Salve Regina University Football Will Play For New England Football Conference Championship: (What’sUpNewp) Newport Polo Names Most Improved and Sportsmanship Awards: Newport Polo is pleased to announced its 2015 Most Improved Player and … […]
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Newport Among ‘America’s Best Towns For The Holidays’
Photo: The Preservation Society of Newport County Travel + Leisure readers agree, Newport is among America’s Best Towns For The Holidays. In a story published on November 2nd, the list consisted of 25 towns and cities across the nation with Laguna Beach, California coming in at #25 and Aspen, Colorado taking the top spot. Where did […]
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The Chanler at Cliff Walk Rolls Out Christmas Package; Includes a Stay, Gourmet Meals and Holiday Gifts
The Chanler at Cliff Walk is offering a Christmas Package this holiday season which includes a two-night stay, seasonal gourmet meals and assorted holiday gifts. Home to 20 different room types, each themed after a different time period or architectural/decorative style, The Chanler at Cliff Walk allows guests to choose their guestroom as part of this holiday-themed […]
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Solarize Aquidneck Launches Island-Wide Solar Initiative, Hosts Community Workshops
On Thursday, November 12, Solarize Aquidneck will host a community workshop-‐Solar 101,for residents of Aquidneck Island interested in learning more about the advantages of solar installations on their homes and businesses. The workshop will be held at 7 p.m. at the Community College of Rhode Island, Newport Campus. Those who can’t attend the workshop can […]
Posted inArts & Culture, News
Randal Poirier, of Independence Financial Partners, is the 2015 Season Sponsor of Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff
Randal Poirier, of Independence Financial Partners, is the 2015 Season Sponsor of Island Moving Co.’s magical Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff. As the Season Sponsor of the production’s 14th season, Poirier will be treating clients and friends to a private performance of the ballet to celebrate the holidays. “I have long been a supporter of Island […]
Posted inThings To Do
Museum of Newport Irish History Lecture on Migration Set for November 12th
The Museum of Newport Irish History announces the third talk in its 14th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, Thursday, November 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum, 194 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. Guest speaker Edward T. McCarron, Ph.D., will present an illustrated talk entitled: “Facing the Atlantic: Ireland, Newfoundland […]
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Morning News and Notes | November 9
A roundup of today’s big stories that have to do with what’s happening, new and to do in and around Newport, RI… WATCH: Newport Stone Carver Appears on ‘CBS Sunday Morning’ on November 8th: (What’sUpNewp) Va. man biking 4000 miles for homeless veterans: Rick Hart pedaled away from his hometown of Newport, R.I. 47 days ago […]
Posted inThings To Do
5 Best Things to do This Week in Newport (Nov. 9 – Nov. 12)
Photo by Jennifer Carter of Ballard Park Discover the best events, activities and things to do in Newport, RI this week. Check This Out -> Where To Find Live Music, Karaoke & Trivia This Week (Nov. 9 – Nov. 12) 1 – Newport Restaurant Week November 6 – 15 Throughout Newport & Bristol Counties Savor three-course […]
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WATCH: Newport Stone Carver Appears on ‘CBS Sunday Morning’ on November 8th
Nick and John Benson from the The John Stevens Shop, located at 29 Thames Street, appeared on CBS Sunday Morning on November 8th. CBS Sunday Morning Story – A Stone Carver’s Family Tradition Nick Benson’s handiwork can be seen across the country – his meticulous portfolio immortalized on headstones, war monuments and memorials. The stone carving […]
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12 Newport Stereotypes That Simply Aren’t True
People certainly have their preconceived thoughts and stereotypes of what Newport is like and what the people of Newport must be like. For example, when you google “Why is Rhode Island…” the first six answers that come up is boring, small, liberal, expensive, corrupt and haunted. We’ve all been asked by tourists, locals and everyone in between […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Where to Find Live Music, Trivia and Karaoke This Week (Nov. 9 – Nov. 12)
Here’s a look at what’s happening in Newport for live music and entertainment this week, enjoy! Here are the 5 Best Things To Do This Week In Newport! 1 – Buskers Irish Pub & Restaurant | 178 Thames Street Wednesday: Open mic night with Mike Warner from 9pm to 1am. No cover. 2 – Celtica | […]
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Quit Your Job, Buy A Business: 9 Newport Businesses That Can Be Yours
Looking to change things up career wise or invest your hard earned money into something in Newport, RI? Well you’re in luck, here’s a look at 9 businesses in or very near The City By The Sea that can be yours. Businesses For Sale In Newport, RI As of November 8, 2015 The information included has […]
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Newport Morning News and Notes | November 8
A roundup of today’s big stories that have to do with what’s happening, new and to do in and around Newport, RI… Five Fun Facts About Each of Newport’s Oldest and Most Historic Churches: (What’sUpNewp) Local Legend Claims One Of The Most Famous Questions in History Was Formulated at Sachuest Beach: (What’sUpNewp) Willy’s Burger Bar […]
Posted inFood & Drink, News
Willy’s Burger Bar and Rotisserie Is Up For Sale
Photos via RE/MAX Professionals of Newport Willy’s Burger Bar + Rotisserie, located at 599 Thames Street in Newport, is up for sale. The restaurant was put on the market on November 6th at $1.2 million and is being represented and marketed by The Fitzpatrick Team at RE/MAX Professionals of Newport. The purchase price includes the 100 seat […]
Posted inFood & Drink, Things To Do
Aquidneck Growers’ Market Kicks Off Winter Market at Newport Vineyards
The Aquidneck Growers’ Market wrapped up their Summer Market and outdoor season at Newport Vineyards and on Memorial Boulevard last week. The 20 or so vendors that make up the Aquidneck Growers’ Market can now all be found at the Winter Market that is located indoors at Newport Vineyards, 909 East Main Road in Middletown. The […]
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Morning News and Notes | November 7
A roundup of today’s big stories that have to do with what’s happening, new and to do in and around Newport, RI… Countdown Has Begun, “26 Months Until Opening Night” at Opera House: (What’sUpNewp) Orange Leaf Closes Newport Location Permanently: (What’sUpNewp) Newport, RI’s Fairholme Mansion Returns to Market for $21 Million … (The Wall Street […]
Posted inFood & Drink, News, Style & Shop
5 Long-Time Newport Businesses We Have To Say Goodbye To In December
What a year it’s been for changes around Newport! Someone recently said that there’s a starting point and end point for everything in life – “businesses don’t stay open forever anymore”, and plenty of businesses chose 2015 to be the year they signed off for good. Over the last 12 – 14 months, we’ve said […]