News

While some legislators and city and town officials from Providence to Newport explore ways to curb panhandling in Rhode Island, many of you, in a WhatsUpNewp and WhatsUpRhode Island poll, have made it clear that you want to see panhandlers disappear from city and town street corners. Overwhelmingly you said that panhandlers pose a safety […]

The parent company of WJAR TV (Channel 10) in Providence, Sinclair Broadcasting Group, reportedly made a deal with Donald Trump’s presidential campaign that resulted in greater access to the candidate in exchange to broadcast the interviews without commentary. This is not unusual for the broadcasting group, which is described as conservative and which was apparently […]

Most Rhode Island residents are waking up to balmy temperatures this morning, but the National Weather Service warns that temperatures will drop and roads may become dangerous. Temperatures will drop quickly below freezing behind a cold front forecast to sweep Southern New England later today into tonight. Such a quick drop in temperatures will cause […]

A few inches of snow overnight has resulted in a few communities across Rhode Island issuing parking bans, and a few schools and churches to adjust their schedules. In Newport, roads will be slippery this morning with rain and ice are in the forecast. Here is a list of the most recent closings, delays and […]

In the season of giving, Newport Polo invites nonprofit organizations to participate as beneficiaries in the 2nd annual All Charity Day polo match, onSunday, July 16, 2017 at 5pm at the Newport International Polo Grounds, Glen Farm, 250 Linden Lane, Portsmouth, RI. The event is a family and pet-friendly, daytime fundraising opportunity for 501-c-3 organizations, with […]

The East Island Reserve, located at 985 East Main Road, is introducing Newport County travelers to a new way to stay! Nearing completion of phase one of construction, the 36 unit boutique style lodging facility is now accepting reservations for 2017.  The property will be managed by Vacation Newport, a division of Newport-based Landings Real […]

Localized heavy snow squalls are possible in our area through late this evening and may result in brief whiteout conditions and hazardous travel, according to the National Weather Service. Scattered snow showers are expected into this evening along and ahead of an arctic cold front. In addition, a few localized heavy snow squalls may result […]

Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin has announced that a Newport County Superior Court jury found James Dalton (age 61), of Fall River, MA, guilty yesterday of one count of second degree sexual assault.  The jury returned the verdict in less than an hour after a one and one half day trial presided over by Superior […]

The nation’s first offshore wind project, located in Rhode Island in waters off Block Island, began generating electricity yesterday, officially launching a clean energy technology that has the potential to power millions of U.S. homes and businesses while further bolstering America’s domestic wind energy industry.   “Today’s launch of America’s first offshore wind project epitomizes […]

Ask area residents what they hope happens to the Newport Grand property, and they’ll likely tell you it should be retained as some sort of recreation, tourist or entertainment center. It’s a question that will need to be answered, as Newport Grand’s owners, Twin River Management Group, prepares to move the slots parlor to Tiverton, […]

As most of you know, panhandling has become an issue for some in elective office in Newport. Now, it’s becoming an issue statewide as two legislators are preparing to introduce legislation that could essentially eliminate panhandling. As in Newport, the two legislators believe it’s a safety issue. [os-widget path=”/ryanbelmore/panhandling-poll” of=”ryanbelmore” comments=”false”]

Christmas In Newport has begun, Bowen’s Wharf hosted their 46th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Santa has begun visiting the neighborhoods of Newport, and the Newport Skating Center has re-opened and hosted their annual Christmas Tree Lighting; it’s certainly beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Newport! Here are some of our favorite Instagram photos […]

The St. George’s School Board of Trustees earlier today (December 9th) the appointment of Alexandra “Alixe” Callen as their 12th head of school. Callen will become the first female to lead St. George’s when she begins her tenure on July 1, 2017. Callen, the head of the upper school at Lakeside School in Seattle, Wash., […]

For years, beer tastings have been going on but the craft beer industry didn’t really start picking up until about 2 years ago. Craft beer used to have such little impact on bars. Sure you would find your seasonal Sam Adams, Narragansett and Harpoon. The market for craft beer has sky rocketed to say the […]

A coalition that includes the Rhode Island State Council of Churches will once again try to convince legislators to approve a series of justice reforms aimed at reducing the prison population. Rev. Dr. Don Anderson, executive minister of the Council of Churches, said in an interview this week that the group expects to have introduced […]

The Newport Historical Society announced on Monday that it has received a $1 million grant  –  the largest single grant the NHS has ever received  – from the Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust. The grant, which will support a campaign to increase endowment and support essential staffing, is also a challenge. NHS now must raise $1 […]

The USS Sequoia, a meticulously restored, 104-foot, 1925 Trumpy-designed yacht that has served more than nine Presidents, could soon be coming to Newport for restoration. In a story on Monday, the Daily Mail wrote about the current condition of the boat and its decline in – The sad decline of the ‘floating White House’: How RACCOONS […]

Bridge to Fitness is holding a toy and gift drive to benefit the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center’s Santa’s Workshop! The toy and gift drive is to benefit children of all ages throughout Newport County during the holiday season that may want to experience the joy of receiving a gift during the Holiday […]

The home being constructed on Coggeshall Avenue, that many are calling “The Spaceship” has garnered the attention of The New York Times. The New York Times wrote about the published “Newport, a City That loves Its Mansions, Shudders At Its Newest One” on page A8 on December 5th. Read it here – http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/04/us/newport-rhode-island-mansion-complaints.html?emc=edit_th_20161205&nl=todaysheadlines&nlid=55010121&_r=1 Many first learned about […]

Salve Regina University will host a TEDx university event on March 25, 2017 and is now seeking proposals from prospective speakers. Launched in 2009, TEDx is program of locally organized events that bring the community together to share a TED-like experience. Some of the best talks from TEDx events have gone on to be featured […]

During this holiday season most of us are inundated with requests from charitable organizations – all hoping to get you to make that last minute tax-deductible contribution before year’s end. [os-widget path=”/ryanbelmore/charitable-giving” of=”ryanbelmore” comments=”false”]

Governor Gina M. Raimondo today announced her intention to position Rhode Island at the forefront of the development of next-generation broadband networks, including 5G (Fifth Generation Wireless) networks. “To make Rhode Island one of the most desirable places to live, work and do business in America, we need to build the infrastructure of the future,” […]

It’s been more than two years since the Newport Yachting Center sold to the Peregrine Group, and Waterfront Productions LLC, a division of RI Waterfront Events, has finally found a new long-term home in Rhode Island. While the Newport Waterfront Events crew has gone on to host events at India Point Park, Alex & Ani […]

Rhode Island’s musician community and all of Newport was reeling on Sunday when word spread that Malcolm ‘Mac’ Chrupcala, a long-time local musician, band leader and teacher had died. The following is his obituary via Memorial Funeral Home. Malcolm Warner “Mac” Chrupcala, 75, of Portsmouth died Saturday, November 26, 2016 at Brigham and Women’s Hospital […]

Massachusetts voters just voted against lifting the cap on the number of charter schools in the state. Rhode Island has debated similar issues. Those opposed to expansion of charter schools fear they will syphon money from public schools. Teachers’ unions also oppose charters, fearful of the loss of funds to public education and charter school […]

A Middletown woman claimed a $10,000 Daily Numbers win from the November 24th evening draw, according to the Rhode Island lottery. She wagered $1.00 on two four-digit straight bets and matched all four digits in the exact order they were drawn to win $5,000 on each.  She does not have any immediate plans for the […]

The Newport Police Department needs your help in identifying a suspect in a robbery that occurred at an unidentified business in Newport recently. Newport Police Need Your Help!!!!!! The Newport Police are seeking the identity of the person depicted in the photos below wearing the baseball style cap. He is a suspect in a Robbery […]

Rhode Island’s musician community and all of Newport was reeling on Sunday when word spread that Malcolm ‘Mac’ Chrupcala, a long-time local musician, band leader and teacher had died. Chrupcala, 75, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday night, according to family members. (Editor’s Note – An earlier version of this story stated Chrupcala was 65, that […]

We’ve learned that www.whatsuprhodeisland.com crashed on Sunday, November 27th after being attacked. We’re working on rebuilding and restoring the site asap, until then you will be forward to the “Rhode Island” section on www.whatsupnewp.com. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Discover the best activities, events and things to do in and around Newport, RI this weekend! Friday, November 25 9 a.m. – Black Friday & December 17th Trunk Show at lululemon Newport 1 p.m. – Holiday Reception at Silken Gallery at Corey Silken Photography 2 p.m. – Loving at Jane Pickens Theater 4 p.m. – The Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff 4 p.m. […]

The Newport Harbor Illuminated Boat Parade returned on November 25th, more than a dozen boats traveled along the harbor and competed for best decorated in various categories. Hundreds of people lined Newport Harbor to watch the boats motor by and join in on the holiday spirit, here are some of our favorite public social media photos […]

Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin has announced that Theodore Gathmann (age 20), of Roswell, GA, pleaded guilty before Superior Court Justice Stephen P. Nugent to one count of first degree child molestation.  Under the terms of the plea, Gathmann was sentenced to 25 years with 12 years to serve, ordered to undergo sex offender counseling, […]

Having ALS has been the toughest challenge of my life. It has literally taken most of the things that I used to consider the most important to me in life. It has taken my independence in every way imaginable. I can no longer walk, talk, or even go to the bathroom on my own. I […]

Welp, it’s here, the most anticipated drinking day of the year, Thanksgiving Eve. Tonight is the night where you have the opportunity to reconnect with old friends that are back in town for the long holiday weekend. {Editor’s Note:  Unlike the majority of Tyler’s editorials, this one is meant to be playful and fun. For […]

It’s officially the biggest drinking day of the year! How did this happen so fast? As the holiday’s approach we can’t be thankful enough for all the support we get from Beer Reps, and most importantly our regulars. Now that the summer is over we love seeing familiar faces. Yes, of course we appreciate the […]

A Bristol Man claimed a $10,000 “24 Karat Cash” Instant Ticket prize on Monday, November 21st and said he will put some of his winnings toward bills, according to the Rhode Island Lottery. The ticket was purchased at Charles 5 & 10 Store, located at 232 Broadway in Newport. The $10,000 winning ticket from Newport was part […]

Philanthropists Peter D. Kiernan and Eaddo Kiernan join MLK Community Center Executive Director Marilyn Warren has announced the challenge has been met: donors from across Newport County and beyond have given more than $58,000 to the Kiernan Challenge benefiting the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center. “It’s a great day to be a Newporter. Eaddo and […]

The Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) announces the kick-off to its 31st annual “Warm Thy Neighbor” campaign to help Rhode Island households in temporary crisis, and who have not qualified for federal and state assistance programs, with the payment of their energy bills.  At a kick-off event held this past Wednesday morning at […]

In a town known for grandiose mansions and elaborate architecture, two friends have teamed up to create a living space that stands in stark contrast with the monumental dwellings of Bellevue Avenue and Ocean Drive. Residents Andrew Croan and Sam Leuschner are building an 18’ x 8’ tiny house on a trailer on Butler Street, […]

Donald Trump has offered Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn (Retired), a Middletown, RI native, the job of national security adviser, multiple national sources are reporting. Besides growing up on Aquidneck Island, Flynn graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science degree in management science, commissioned a distinguished military graduate through Reserve Officers’ Training […]

Peter D. Kiernan and Eaddo Kiernan are raising the Kiernan Challenge Match to $50,000. Earlier this month, the Kiernans challenged Newport County to raise $25,000 to support the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center’s Hunger Services, and in just a few short weeks, residents answered the call, coming up with $25,199 at the time […]

Gustave White Sotheby’s International Realty has announced the sale of “Swinburne”, an in-town home located at 115 Pelham Street in Newport’s Historic Hill neighborhood.  The property sold on November 14th for $2,847,500. “Swinburne” is sited on a half-acre lot with a 4,653 square foot main house and also offers guest quarters above a two car garage and […]

Four local students are participating in Defense industry internships through The Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance’s Real Jobs RI Partnership grant.  These paid internships for undergraduate and graduate-level students from Rhode Island colleges and universities focus on learning and gaining experience in information technology and cybersecurity, and undersea technology and engineering. “SENEDIA’s internship program […]

This week has been tumultuous to say the least.  The chaos and confusion stemming from Tuesday’s Presidential Election results have caused a significant amount of unrest across the country.  Last night, protests erupted into violent acts of mayhem throughout a number of cities across the United States seemingly leaving us less united than ever anticipated. […]

Ordering your first “real” beer can be intimidating. Most of time people are so used to ordering the Bud or Heineken and the bitterness in a beer can scare people off. As the craft beer industry continues to grow more options become available when making beer and discovering you pretty much can use any ingredient […]

Change. It’s coming soon to the Newport City Council and Newport School Committee, according to unofficial results from the Rhode Island Board of Directions. Note: Rhode Island Board Of Elections says that Mail ballots will continue to be tabulated tomorrow and possibly Thursday. When finished, the results will be added. On December 4th, our local Inauguration […]

“Many a man’s big mouth has given him a broken nose”, that was a message outside of the Newport Irish American Club that has many in the Lower Thames Street neighborhood talking and furious. Two nearby neighbors, who spoke on guarantee of anonymity on Saturday, said that the sign is in response to incidents over […]

The inaugural TEDxNewport will take place today (Saturday, November 5th) at the historic Jane Pickens Theater from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The independently organized event, licensed by TED, will feature 13 local voices as well as TED Talk videos under the theme “Tides of Change”. The presentations will explore changes, patterns, and forward-thinking ideas that are […]

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 6th at 2 a.m., which means you gain an hour of sleep this weekend! Look for lighter mornings, but for it to get darker much earlier in the evening.  For example, the sun will rise at 7:23 a.m. on Saturday and set at 5:35 p.m.; while rising at […]

People are turning to the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center (MLK Center) in unprecedented numbers for food support, and Peter and Eaddo Kiernan, owners of Hammersmith Farm and MLK Center supporters for over 20 years, are fighting back against hunger in Newport in a major way. With already surging numbers of hungry people […]

With the guidance of Newport County League of Woman Voters President, Susan Wells, Lisa Olaynack’s 6th grade English Language Arts (ELA) students conducted “meet and greet” sessions with the Newport School Committee candidates. All candidates were invited to visit their Thompson Middle School (TMS) classroom to offer personal viewpoints regarding the importance of “public service.” […]

If you’ve ever worked behind a bar in Newport, Rhode Island, you’ve answered these questions before. “Where do I go?”  “What do we do?”  “Where do we eat?”  It’s like clockwork.  I find myself making a list for guests almost on a nightly basis in the summertime, which I actually enjoy doing contrary to popular […]

A rally in support of indigenous rights, the protection of water and the peaceful stand at Standing Rock against the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) will be held on Saturday, November 5th at 10am in Eisenhower Park in Newport.        A group of area residents met Sunday for the first time at Gather on Broadway. A Facebook page, […]

The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a stability letter to America’s newest Tall Ship for operation on “Exposed Waters,” confirming that SSV Oliver Hazard Perry exceeds their most stringent Sailing School Vessel standards for stability. This assures that the vessel is on track to begin offshore ocean voyaging in early 2017 following the successful near-shore […]

Bike Newport, the non-profit organization that improves, encourages, and facilitates bicycling in and around Newport, RI, is moving operations to 62 Broadway in Newport, Rhode Island – the site of the former Newport Medical Center. Since May, Bike Newport has been temporarily housed in a former gas station on Spring Street, a space that supported […]

Lila Delman Real Estate International has announced that they have listed Perry Mill Wharf, located at the epicenter of downtown Newport, for $28 million. “It’s exciting to be a part of the effort to advance one of the most important properties in Newport’s famed waterfront district,” said listing broker, Greg Arakelian, Lila Delman Real Estate […]

Rising sea levels, the increasing frequency and intensity of storms, desertification and other intensifying impacts pose both obvious and unprecedented challenges to the cultural and natural heritage of humankind. A new collaboration announced recently by US/ICOMOS and the Newport Restoration Foundation (NRF) is designed to better connect US historic preservationists to the global conversation around this […]

Once again Rhode Island voters are being asked to approve building a full-scale casino, this time in Tiverton, near the Massachusetts border. This casino would replace the slots parlor now operating in the shadow of the Newport Bridge in Newport. The issue will appear on the ballot statewide and also in Tiverton. It must pass […]

Wondering what the talk of the town was around Newport in October? While covering dozens of events and posting hundreds of stories in the month of October, it’s the news that’s unexpected, original and breaking news that saw the most traffic on www.whatsupnewp.com. More than 50,000 unique visitors made these posts the top 10 most-read stories in […]

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced today that effective at sunrise on Saturday, October 29, the emergency shellfishing closure for Rhode Island waters will be lifted. The closure was due to a harmful algae bloom that has now subsided. All conditional harvesting areas, with the exception of Area B, remain closed due […]

In search of something eerie to write about in late October, I went to Exeter to seek out the grave of Rhode Island’s most famous accused vampire, Mercy Lena Brown, who died in 1892 at age 19. Given her celebrity, I was hardly surprised to find that I wasn’t the only one who’d come to […]

The Coast Guard and Jamestown Police Department rescued a 60-year-old man Sunday off Fort Wetherill, Rhode Island after he fell off his sailboat. At approximately 12:20 a.m., Coast Guard Station Castle Hill received a call from Jamestown Police reporting a man in the water who had been clinging to his boat for about two hours. […]

Metered parking, which is in effect from May 1st through October 31st, will be free beginning on Tuesday, November 1st. Off-Season Metered Parking is in effect from November 1st through April 30th, 2016. There is no fee for parking at meters during this time but a 3-hour limit remains in effect until 6 p.m. daily. […]

As the clocks fall back, cyclists need to light up. Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 6th. As darkness arrives earlier, cyclists are reminded to take extra precaution riding at night. White lights on front, red lights on back, and plenty of reflectors and reflective clothing. The local advocacy group Bike Newport is chanting […]

Ever wondered what the difference is between an Ale and a Lager? Most people think they’re similar but actually they’re very different. What is an Ale? When brewing an Ale, it uses yeast to be fermented at the top of the fermentation tank at high temperatures. An Ale usually takes up to eight days to be ferment and […]

Local high school students can now apply for college scholarships of up to $80,000 thanks to a new initiative from the Rhode Island Foundation that honors the state’s founding father. “Roger Williams was many things – a seeker, a champion of democracy, a naturalist, a reader, a writer, a traveler, and undoubtedly an entrepreneur. Thanks to […]