The McKee administration is reminding Rhode Islanders of safety tips to prevent illness and injury during the ongoing heat wave. “Extreme heat can be a serious issue,” said Gov. Dan McKee. “With the temperatures we are seeing and expecting over the coming days, people should be checking on each other, staying hydrated, limiting their exposure […]
News
Posted inNews
Rogers High School student redesigns Fort Adams ‘Tunnel Rat,’ creates youth scavenger hunt
The Fort Adams Trust has launched a newly designed youth scavenger hunt booklet created in partnership with Rogers High School Career and Technical Center’s Advertising, Design & New Media program. Charlie Johnson, a ninth-grade student at Rogers and a participant in the Newport Area Career and Technical Center, led the redesign of the Fort Adams […]
Posted inNews
Winners crowned at 24th Clagett Regatta and 2026 U.S. Para Sailing Championships
Twenty-five sailors have completed three days of racing at the 24th C. Thomas Clagett, Jr. Memorial Clinic and Regatta and 2026 U.S. Para Sailing Championships, capping five days on the water in Newport that began with a two-day coaching clinic. The 13 sailors in the 2.4mR class and six boats in the Martin 16 class […]
Posted inNews
Golfers brave the elements to raise funds for Newport Mental Health
Despite a few passing showers, golfers teed off for the annual Drive for Mental Health Charity Golf Tournament, presented by Horan Building Company, raising funds to support behavioral health and substance use services in Newport County. Held at The Aquidneck Club on June 22, the tournament benefited Newport Mental Health’s Annual Fund. Players embraced the […]
Posted inNews
Preservation Society offers free admission days for veterans and children during Independence Week
As part of Independence Week honoring the United States semiquincentennial, the Preservation Society of Newport County will offer free admission at three of its most popular mansions for veterans on July 5 and for children 12 and younger on July 6. Sunday, July 5, is Veterans Appreciation Day, with free admission for military members and […]
Posted inNews
Newport Restoration Foundation’s colonial homes named an Irreplaceable America site
The Newport Restoration Foundation has been named to Irreplaceable America, a new list from the World Monuments Fund recognizing 10 historic places across the United States whose preservation is deemed essential to the nation’s history as it approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The recognition honors the foundation’s portfolio of colonial homes, […]
Posted inNews
Salve Regina launches new post-graduate certificate in clinical leadership in behavior analysis
Salve Regina University is offering a new post-graduate certificate in clinical leadership in behavior analysis, a program it describes as the first of its kind to focus on the skills needed to lead behavior-analytic service organizations. Designed for working professionals, the program can be completed in one to two years and is enrolling now for […]
Posted inNews
RIPEC finds Rhode Island K-12 spending among nation’s highest, but student outcomes are middling
Rhode Island’s large investment in elementary and secondary education has not yielded correspondingly high student outcomes, according to a new report from the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council. The analysis found that the state spent $22,797 per pupil in 2023-24, the eighth-highest level in the nation and 25% above the national average. Adjusted for cost […]
Posted inBusiness
McKee administration announces $8 million in business incentives, including $6.2 million for Raytheon’s Portsmouth expansion
Gov. Dan McKee, chair of the Rhode Island Commerce Board, has announced $8 million in incentives to support business growth, job creation and innovation, including $6.2 million in tax credits for Raytheon to create 150 new jobs at its Portsmouth facility. “Every new job and innovative idea brought to market strengthens our economy and creates […]
Posted inPolice & Fire
Newport police announce July 4 parking ban for fireworks display
The Newport Police Department has announced a parking ban for Saturday, July 4, to ease traffic congestion around the city’s annual fireworks display. No parking will be allowed on West Narragansett Avenue between Thames Street and Marchant Street; Washington Street between Bridge Street and Gladys Carr Bolhouse Road (the Causeway); and Memorial Boulevard from Bellevue […]
Posted inNews
Portsmouth woman wins $40,000 Mega Millions prize as Rhode Island Lottery closes out June
The Rhode Island Lottery closed out June with two big winners, including a Portsmouth woman who claimed a $40,000 Mega Millions prize and a Coventry woman who won $22,500 playing Keno Plus. The Portsmouth winner, a frequent Mega Millions player, said she was shocked when her ticket matched four numbers plus the Mega Ball in […]
Posted inCity & Government
Reed, Whitehouse and Amo announce nearly $19 million in federal funding for safer Aquidneck Island streets
Rhode Island’s congressional delegation announced $19.25 million in federal funding Monday for roadway, bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements across Aquidneck Island. U.S. Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack Reed and U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo joined local leaders to announce the grant, which was funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Safe Streets and Roads for All program […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport gears up for July 4 fireworks, seeks community donations to light up the harbor
The city of Newport is counting down to its annual Fourth of July fireworks display and is again asking residents and businesses to help fund the celebration over the harbor. Weather permitting, this year’s display is scheduled to light up the harbor beginning at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, with a rain date […]
Posted inHistory
On This Day In Newport History – June 28, 1969: Newport Bridge opens for first time
The Claiborne Pell Bridge, commonly known as the Newport Bridge, opened on this day in 1969. The main span of the Newport Bridge is 488 metres (1,601 ft), ranking it number 87 among the longest suspension bridges in the world, and making it the longest suspension bridge in New England. The bridge was constructed from […]
Posted inInstagram
RIDOH recommends reopening swimming areas at Hazards and Gooseberry beaches in Newport
The Rhode Island Department of Health is recommending that the swimming areas at Hazards and Gooseberry beaches in Newport reopen after bacteria counts returned to safe levels. The recommendation comes days after the department advised closing the swimming areas at both beaches, along with several others in Jamestown and Tiverton, because of high bacteria counts. […]
Posted inNews
College Visions brings Summer Prep program to CCRI’s Newport campus
College Visions, a Rhode Island nonprofit dedicated to empowering first-generation, low-income students, is expanding its Summer Prep program to the Community College of Rhode Island’s Newport County Campus this summer. The five-week intensive program runs from Tuesday, July 7, through Aug. 6, serving a cohort of 25 rising ninth- through 12th-grade students from Newport and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
RENEWport’s 250 Archival Project invites Newport youth to reflect on America’s anniversary
RENEWport is inviting local youth to share their reflections on the nation’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence through its Semiquincentennial 250 Archival Project, with the second round of submissions open through June 30. The project, a collaboration with the Newport Historical Society, Newport Public Schools and the Met East Bay School, is open […]
Posted inColumns
Dr. Michael Fine: What’s crazy about decent medical care
I ran into my friend Bert last night and we got to talking. “I hear you guys talking about medical care, about how it is for-profit and lots of people are using it to make too much money on the backs of communities,” he said. “But my care is great. I go to Oak Street. […]
Posted inNews
Underwater ribbon cutting ushers in new URI Ocean Robotics Laboratory
The University of Rhode Island celebrated a major milestone in the $300 million, multi-phase revitalization of its Narragansett Bay Campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Ocean Robotics Laboratory on June 25. Students Elliot Roman and Jake Bonney piloted URI’s remotely operated vehicle Rhody to cut the ceremonial ribbon underwater in the building’s 20-foot-wide […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Charter Books to host bestselling author Jenny Jackson at OceanCliff for ‘The Shampoo Effect’
Charter Books will welcome Jenny Jackson, New York Times bestselling author of “Pineapple Street” and vice president and editorial director of fiction at Alfred A. Knopf, to Newport for a special event at OceanCliff celebrating her latest novel, “The Shampoo Effect.” The event will take place Monday, July 13, from 4 to 6 p.m., with […]
Posted inNews
RIDOH recommends reopening swimming area at Mackerel Cove
The Rhode Island Department of Health is recommending that the swimming area at Mackerel Cove in Jamestown reopen after bacteria counts returned to safe levels. The recommendation comes days after the department advised closing the swimming area at Mackerel Cove, along with several other beaches in Newport, Tiverton and elsewhere, because of high bacteria counts. […]
Posted inNonprofit
Little Compton conservationist Abigail Brooks receives Rhode Island’s highest land trust honor
The Rhode Island Land Trust Council has awarded Abigail Brooks of Little Compton the Peter Merritt Award for Land Conservation, the council’s highest honor for volunteer service, recognizing more than two decades of commitment to protecting the land and character of her community. The award was presented at the council’s annual meeting on June 22 […]
Posted inCity & Government
Greater Newport Chamber to host ‘Coffee with the Candidates’ series at Innovate Newport
The Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce will host a “Coffee with the Candidates” series this summer, bringing incumbents and candidates running for governor and lieutenant governor together with members of the local business community for casual coffee hours. Organized by the chamber’s Government Affairs Committee, the series will take place at Innovate Newport, 513 Broadway, […]
Posted inNews
Potter League launches ‘Stars, Stripes & Second Chances’ adoption event as shelter reaches capacity
With its Animal Care & Adoption Center at capacity, the Potter League for Animals has launched its “Stars, Stripes & Second Chances” adoption event, offering 50% off adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats from June 26 through July 2. The discount applies to all adult dogs and cats 6 months and older. The […]
Posted inNews
Jermain reflects on 12 years, charts what’s next for Newport schools in final monthly chat
Newport Public Schools Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joined What’sUpNewp owner and publisher Ryan Belmore and editor Frank Prosnitz on Wednesday afternoon for her final monthly conversation — capping a series that has run for several years, now ended by her June 30 retirement after more than 12 years leading the district. The conversation was equal […]
Posted inNews
AARP commits $143,000 in grants to strengthen Rhode Island communities, including Bike Newport
AARP has announced that nine organizations across Rhode Island will receive 2026 Community Challenge grants, including Bike Newport, as part of a national effort to make communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. The grants, totaling $143,000 in Rhode Island, are part of an $8.3 million commitment by AARP nationwide — […]
Posted inCity & Government
Nine candidates enter Newport City Council at-large race as filing period closes
The filing period for Newport’s fall municipal elections closed Wednesday with nine candidates entered in the race for at-large seats on the Newport City Council, including Mayor Charles Holder, who is seeking re-election. Holder, who serves as council chair and mayor, which is chosen by all seven members of the council from among the four […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
RIDOH recommends swimming advisories at five beaches in Jamestown, Newport and Tiverton
The Rhode Island Department of Health is recommending the closure of swimming areas at five beaches in Jamestown, Newport and Tiverton because of high bacteria counts. The recommended closures apply to Mackerel Cove Beach in Jamestown, Hazards Beach and Gooseberry Beach in Newport, and Fogland Beach and Grinnell’s Beach in Tiverton, the department said. State […]
Posted inNonprofit
Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial race raises $32,000 for Newport County YMCA and MLK Community Center
A rainy start didn’t deter 357 participants from running and walking in the third annual Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial Race on Saturday, May 9, an event that raised $32,000 for two Newport County organizations. This year’s race added a new 10K alongside the 5K run/walk and virtual options. Again presented by BRS Building Company, the […]
Posted inCity & Government
McKee administration awards $9.5 million for affordable housing, including $4.5 million for a Newport project
Gov. Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing have announced $9.5 million in awards through the Housing 2030 Public Developer Program, including $4.5 million for a new affordable housing development in Newport. The bond-funded program is designed to help public housing authorities and their nonprofit affiliates develop and preserve affordable rental housing. […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council, School Committee races take shape as filing period enters final day
The field for Newport’s fall municipal elections began to come into focus Tuesday as candidates filed declarations of candidacy on the second day of the state’s three-day filing window. Five candidates have entered the race for Newport City Council at-large, including incumbent Stephanie Smyth. Also filing were Jane LeBoeuf, Kevin Michaud, Christine Hope Sullivan, and […]
Posted inNews
Providence tourism and hospitality community donate $10,500 to Glasgow children’s hospital
GoProvidence and the Rhode Island Sports Commission have donated $5,000 to the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity in a gesture of gratitude to the Scottish soccer fans who left an unforgettable impression on Providence during their stay in the region. The initial gift sparked an immediate wave of generosity, with local bars and restaurants — including […]
Posted inCity & Government
Rhode Island creates commission to study sludge disposal challenges
A special joint legislative commission will study Rhode Island’s growing biosolids disposal challenges under legislation sponsored by Rep. Terri Cortvriend that was signed by the governor on Monday. The effort aims to facilitate a comprehensive, statewide solution to what has been described as a looming concern over increasingly limited options for disposing of biosolids, or […]
Posted inInstagram
Pell Elementary kindergarten teacher Diane McBrier named Newport Teacher of the Year
Pell Elementary School kindergarten teacher Diane McBrier has been named the Newport Public School District Teacher of the Year for the 2026-2027 school year. McBrier is a veteran educator with 28 years of teaching experience, 26 of them with Newport Public Schools. She has taught at Underwood School, Sheffield School, Coggeshall School and Cranston-Calvert School […]
Posted inNews
L.L.Bean to bring a taste of coastal Maine to Newport’s Bowen’s Wharf
L.L.Bean will bring a taste of coastal Maine to Newport’s waterfront this weekend with an immersive activation at Bowen’s Wharf, running Friday, June 26, through Sunday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. For one weekend only, the Maine-based outdoor brand will offer an interactive showcase celebrating coastal living, outdoor heritage and […]
Posted inCity & Government
David Quiroa withdraws from Senate District 13 race, citing time demands of a new job
Republican David A. Quiroa has withdrawn from the race for Rhode Island Senate District 13, which covers all of Jamestown and most of Newport, announcing he will not file a declaration of candidacy for the seat. “I will be starting a new professional chapter the first week of July, and I simply will not have […]
Posted inInstagram
Newport candidates begin declaring for office as filing period opens
Newport candidates began formally declaring for local, statewide and federal offices Monday, the first of three days in Rhode Island’s candidate filing period, with the early field already shaping up to include a crowded race for School Committee. According to a list of Newport residents who declared on the first day, released by the city’s […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week returns Oct. 1-4 with new Supercar Concours
Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week will return Oct. 1 to 4, with the eighth edition of the event expanding into a two-concours weekend for the first time. The event arrives fresh off being named Motoring Event of the Year at the 2025 International Historic Motoring Awards, just three years after receiving the organization’s Rising […]
Posted inNews
RITBA provides updates on bridge maintenance projects across Newport County
The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority has provided updates on several ongoing construction projects across its bridges in Newport County. “We have a very busy construction season underway,” said Lori Caron Silveira, executive director of the authority. “We are working hard to complete important projects to maintain our bridges. Please help us keep our […]
Posted inNews
Yozura announces candidacy for Newport School Committee
Amy Yozura, a longtime Newport resident, has announced that she is running for the Newport School Committee, pledging to ensure the city’s public schools have the funding they need. A graduate of Marist University, Yozura holds a degree in communications and business marketing and has worked in both education and private aviation throughout her career. […]
Posted inNews
Newport OUT to host ”Murica Drag Brunch’ at Stoneacre Brasserie on July 5
Newport OUT will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with its latest themed drag brunch, “‘Murica Drag Brunch,” at Stoneacre Brasserie on Saturday, July 5. Inspired by the larger-than-life glamour of Dolly Parton, trailer park chic and unapologetic camp, the event combines drag entertainment, brunch and a patriotic parody for a post-Independence Day celebration. The brunch will […]
Posted inCity & Government
Candidates began to declare for office today
Beginning today (Monday) through Wednesday afternoon, candidates in Rhode Island will officially declare for local, statewide and federal offices. Declarations come on the heels of a Democratic state convention that failed to offer endorsements in the governor’s, lieutenant governor’s, and attorney general races. Republicans meet later in the week. The declarations are the first step […]
Posted inNews
Canzone homers, Gilbert allows 3 hits and Mariners beat Red Sox 3-1
By DOUG MILLER Associated Press SEATTLE (AP) — Dominic Canzone homered, Logan Gilbert allowed one run on three hits in 6 1/3 innings and the Seattle Mariners beat the Boston Red Sox 3-1 on Sunday. Gilbert (6-4) struck out eight and walked two. The game was scoreless in the second inning when Canzone lined an […]
Posted inInstagram
Newport’s fourth annual Juneteenth celebration returns to Fort Adams
The fourth annual Newport Juneteenth celebration was held at Fort Adams State Park on Saturday, June 20, an expanded event that paired the holiday with a Rhode Island 250th anniversary theme honoring the history of Black and Indigenous people across the state. Presented by Rhode Island Slave History Medallions, the daylong program opened with a […]
Posted inNews
In Taylor Swift’s beach town, every clue becomes a wedding rumor
WESTERLY, R.I. (AP) — When a large tent appeared next door to Taylor Swift’s Watch Hill estate this week, it didn’t take long for speculation about the superstar’s impending nuptials to ripple through the affluent New England seaside village — and the internet. Soon, fans were swapping theories online, photographers were staking out vantage points and residents […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
RIDOH recommends reopening swimming at Easton’s Beach in Newport
The Rhode Island Department of Health is recommending that the swimming areas at Easton’s Beach in Newport and Briar Point Beach in Coventry reopen after bacteria counts returned to safe levels. The recommendation comes two days after the department advised closing the swimming areas at both beaches, along with Oakland Beach in Warwick, because of […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island election agencies announce first graduates of certification program
The Rhode Island Board of Elections and the Rhode Island Department of State have announced the graduation of the first cohort of election officials from the Election Training and Certification, or ETAC, program, a professional development and certification program jointly developed and administered by the state’s election agencies. Sixty-seven election officials received their ETAC certifications […]
Posted inNews
Norman Bird Sanctuary and Salve Regina expand conservation partnership, launch Kiernan Scholars Program
The Norman Bird Sanctuary and Salve Regina University welcomed 75 guests on June 16 for an evening of public engagement and scientific insight, celebrating a growing collaboration that is advancing ecological research and hands-on conservation training on Aquidneck Island. The program featured a lecture by Dr. Jameson Chace and the announcement, by sanctuary Executive Director […]
Posted inNews
Preserve Rhode Island awards $105,000 in historic preservation grants, including four in Newport
Preserve Rhode Island, in partnership with The 1772 Foundation, has awarded about $105,000 in matching grants to 13 nonprofit organizations across the state to support urgent repairs and long-term preservation at some of Rhode Island’s most treasured historic places, including four in Newport. The one-to-one matching grants will fund bricks-and-mortar work at sites ranging from […]
Posted inNews
Newport Airport Day returns June 28 with aircraft displays, helicopter rides and family fun
Newport State Airport will host the seventh annual Newport Airport Day on Sunday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., welcoming the public for a community aviation event for all ages. The event will feature aircraft static displays, giving visitors a close-up look at a variety of airplanes and helicopters. Attendees will also have […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council to weigh flood grants, tax rate and tourism commission June 24
The Newport City Council will take up a full agenda at its regular meeting Wednesday, June 24, including major flood-resiliency grant requests, an adjustment to the non-owner-occupied residential tax rate and a series of resolutions aimed at council operations. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, 43 Broadway. The meeting […]
Posted inInstagram
Historic Warwick Neck Lighthouse headed to public auction this summer
The historic Warwick Neck Lighthouse is set to go to public auction this summer, offering buyers a rare chance to own one of Rhode Island’s iconic light stations. The waterfront property at 1350 Warwick Neck Ave. features the 51-foot-tall lighthouse, which has guided mariners since 1827 and remains an active aid to navigation, capped with […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown Arts Center presents ‘A Celebration of Trees’ summer exhibition
The Jamestown Arts Center will present “A Celebration of Trees,” a multimedia group exhibition exploring humanity’s enduring relationship with trees, on view from June 26 through Aug. 29. Curated by Laurie Dolphin, the exhibition features 21 artists from Southern New England and around the world working in painting, sculpture, photography, film and mixed media. The […]
Posted inNews
Music in Middletown summer concert series set to launch July 1
Middletown’s popular Music in Middletown series returns this summer with a slate of free, family-friendly concerts running from July through August at Second Beach and Paradise Valley Park. The season opens Wednesday, July 1, with an America 250 celebration from 6 to 9:15 p.m. at Second Beach, 315 Sachuest Point Road. Hosted by the town’s […]
Posted inNews
Aquidneck Island Robotics team showcases talent at People’s Credit Union
People’s Credit Union recently hosted Aquidneck Island Robotics at its Middletown headquarters, where students showed their appreciation for the sponsor with a hands-on robotics demonstration. Aquidneck Island Robotics, known as AIR, is the largest community-based youth competitive robotics organization in the state. Open to all K-12 students in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts from public, […]
Posted inNews
Newport International Boat Show celebrates 55 years with expanded programming and early ticket sales
The Newport International Boat Show, presented by BankNewport, has opened ticket sales for its 2026 edition as it prepares to mark 55 years as one of the largest in-water boat shows in the Northeast. Set for Sept. 17 to 20 on Newport’s waterfront, this year’s show will feature expanded educational programming, a reimagined Windward VIP […]
Posted inNews
Secretary of State reminds candidates of June 22-24 declaration filing period
Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore and the Rhode Island Department of State’s Elections Division are reminding prospective candidates of the upcoming filing period for declaration of candidacy forms. Declarations of candidacy must be filed on June 22, 23 or 24, with a deadline of 4 p.m. on June 24. Candidates for federal and statewide […]
Posted inNews
RIPTA’s summer service changes take effect June 20, with free Newport routes and the return of the beach bus
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority will implement its summer service changes on Saturday, June 20, bringing the return of seasonal beach service and several adjustments aimed at Newport-area riders. RIPTA adjusts its service three times a year in response to seasonal changes and passenger use. This round affects Routes 23, 65x and 67, and […]
Posted inNews
South Kingstown police investigating fatal motorcycle crash on Route 1
A 28-year-old North Kingstown man died in a single-motorcycle crash on Route 1 on Tuesday night, the South Kingstown Police Department said. Officers responded at about 10:15 p.m. on June 16 to a report of a motorcycle crash on Route 1 northbound, south of Torrey Road. They found a single motorcycle involved in the crash, and […]
Posted inNews
Blue Jays back Cease with 3 homers in 6-1 victory over Red Sox at Fenway
By BRENDAN McGAIR Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — Davis Schneider and Andrés Giménez hit back-to-back home runs, Dylan Cease pitched five shutout innings and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Boston Red Sox 6-1 on Tuesday night. George Springer added a two-run homer, the 300th of his career, and knocked in three. Schneider’s drive off […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
RIDOH recommends closing swimming areas at three Rhode Island beaches, including Easton’s Beach
The Rhode Island Department of Health is recommending the closure of swimming areas at three beaches, including Easton’s Beach in Newport, because of high bacteria counts. The recommendation also applies to Oakland Beach in Warwick and Briar Point Beach in Coventry, the department said. State health officials will continue to monitor and review beach water […]
Posted inCity & Government
Largest Rhode Island health care union endorses McKee, Matos for re-election
The United Nurses and Allied Professionals, Rhode Island’s largest health care workers’ union, has endorsed Gov. Dan McKee and Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos for re-election. The union, which represents more than 5,500 nurses, technologists, therapists and other frontline health care workers in the state, pointed to the administration’s role in keeping two community hospitals open. […]
Posted inCity & Government
RIHEBC awards $1 million in capital grants, including several to Newport County organizations
The Rhode Island Health and Educational Building Corporation has awarded $1 million in capital grants to 45 health, education and community service organizations across the state, including several in Newport County, to help complete capital projects or purchase equipment. Locally, the John Clarke Retirement Center, doing business as John Clarke Senior Living, received $23,940 to […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Olympic medalist Elizabeth Beisel joins Kingston Chamber Music Festival’s 2026 season
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival will present its 38th season, “Life, Liberty, & Music,” from July 22 to Aug. 2 on the University of Rhode Island campus, highlighted by its first collaboration with Rhode Island native and Olympic medalist Elizabeth Beisel. While many Rhode Islanders know Beisel as a three-time Olympian and two-time Olympic medalist […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Fort Adams Trust marks Independence Week with July Fourth fireworks and veterans tribute
The Fort Adams Trust will mark Independence Week with three days of free public programming at Fort Adams State Park, anchored by its annual Fourth of July celebration overlooking Newport Harbor and continuing with tribute days honoring veterans and welcoming families. “There’s no better place to celebrate the Fourth than within the walls of one […]
Posted inCity & Government
Building trades council endorses Matos for re-election as lieutenant governor
Lieutenant Gov. Sabina Matos announced Monday that her re-election campaign has been endorsed by the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council, which represents 16 affiliated unions and thousands of skilled tradespeople across the state. “I am proud to continue my long-standing partnership with the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council and thank them […]
Posted inCity & Government
Rhode Island property tax increases jumped in fiscal 2026, RIPEC analysis finds
Rhode Island property tax increases accelerated sharply in fiscal year 2026 amid rapid growth in property values and widening gaps among classes of taxpayers, according to a new analysis from the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council. The statewide municipal tax levy rose 3.7%, or $98.3 million, in fiscal 2026, the largest increase in a decade […]
Posted inInstagram
Middletown High School graduates Class of 2026 at Gaudet Field
Middletown High School celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2026 at Gaudet Field on Saturday, June 13, capping the seniors’ high school careers with a ceremony rich in student voices and musical tradition. Principal Donna Sweet welcomed graduates, families and guests to the commencement, which featured a program shaped largely by students. Nour Chamseddine, […]
Posted inNews
Saunderstown man charged with boating under the influence after Jamestown crash
A Saunderstown man faces charges of operating a watercraft under the influence after his boat struck a moored vessel off East Ferry on Friday night, ejecting his passenger into the water, the Jamestown Police Department said. Police received an open 911 call at about 10:39 p.m. on June 12 that, based on GPS coordinates, appeared […]
Posted inNews
Kids Count – a look at Newport County Communities
The child population of Newport County is decreasing more than double the rate of the state of Rhode Island, while elementary and high school students are generally outperforming the rest of the state on standard testing for reading and math. These findings were included in Kids Count’s recently released community profiles. Kids Count, which advocates […]
Posted inNonprofit
Newport Polo’s 25th annual gala to benefit five youth-focused charities
The Newport Polo Foundation has announced the five beneficiaries of its 25th annual charity gala, a Great Gatsby-themed affair set for Friday, July 31, at Rosecliff Mansion on Bellevue Avenue. This year’s proceeds will benefit World Pediatrics, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County, TeamFAME, the Newport Historical Society and FabNewport, all organizations focused […]
Posted inInstagram
Rogers High School celebrates Class of 2026 at Toppa Field graduation
Rogers High School’s Class of 2026 crossed the stage at Toppa Field on Wednesday evening, marking the close of their high school careers in a ceremony that blended tradition, music and reflection. The graduation, held June 11 at 6 p.m., brought together graduates, families, faculty and city officials to honor the achievements of Newport’s newest […]
Posted inInstagram
Home of the Week: A thoughtfully reimagined cottage just off Broadway
As someone who also calls the off-Broadway neighborhood home, I’ve always believed it offers some of the best value and quality of life on Aquidneck Island. This week’s Home of the Week, 20 Mumford Avenue, is a wonderful example of why. Back in February of 2021, a good friend of mine purchased the property. At […]
Posted inCity & Government
General Assembly passes Carson-Valverde bill strengthening school food waste diversion
The General Assembly has approved legislation sponsored by Rep. Lauren H. Carson and Sen. Bridget Valverde to strengthen a state law aimed at keeping school cafeteria food waste out of the landfill. The bill, which now goes to the governor, requires all school food service contracts to include provisions mandating the composting or recycling of […]
Posted inNews
People’s Credit Union marks 18th year sponsoring Newport Gulls’ reading program
For the 18th consecutive year, People’s Credit Union has partnered with the Newport Gulls to sponsor the FANatic About Reading Program, which promotes reading among elementary school students on Aquidneck Island. Players on the Gulls, a collegiate summer baseball team, volunteer their time reading books to children in local classrooms. As part of the program, […]
Posted inNews
Naval War College Foundation dedicates endowed chair in leadership and ethics
The Naval War College Foundation has dedicated the Andrew J. Zimbelmann Endowed Chair for Leadership, Ethics, and Character at the U.S. Naval War College. Established through a commitment from the Tony and Ann Ryan Family Foundation, the chair will provide permanent support for a senior faculty position focused on leadership, ethics and character education for […]
Posted inNews
CRMC approves key SouthCoast Wind permit over objections from fishing industry
by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current June 10, 2026 The murky future for SouthCoast Wind gained a small but significant sign of clarity Tuesday with a key permit approval from the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC).The panel’s unanimous vote — the first decision made by the newly retooled council —- followed a four-hour […]
Posted inNews
Sweet Berry Farm withdraws development proposal, weighs smaller-scale plan
Sweet Berry Farm has withdrawn its application for a major development project at its Mitchell’s Lane property and is stepping back to consider a smaller-scale plan, the farm and the Aquidneck Island Land Trust said this week. The farm announced the decision in a statement posted to Facebook on Tuesday, telling supporters it had chosen […]
Posted inNews
Sail Newport to dedicate racing education center in memory of Jason Titunik
Sail Newport will dedicate the building at 60 Fort Adams Drive as the Jason Titunik Racing Education Center in a ceremony Wednesday, June 24, at 2 p.m. The building, located at the sailing center in Fort Adams State Park, was Sail Newport’s original main office and has recently been fully remodeled for use by racing […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
Rhode Island issues another air quality alert for Thursday
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has issued a statewide air quality alert for Thursday, June 11, forecasting ground-level ozone that will reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. It is the third such alert the department has issued in under a week, as a stretch of warm summer weather continues to drive elevated ozone. […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Narragansett Beer marks 21 years since its revival with June 24 taproom party
Narragansett Beer will celebrate 21 years since its revival with a birthday party at its Providence taproom on June 24, marking the date in 2005 when founder Mark Hellendrung and a group of Rhode Island investors reacquired the iconic New England brand. The celebration at the Fox Point taproom will feature the release of a […]
Posted inNews
Bike Newport names Tuni Schartner director of partnerships and philanthropy
Bike Newport has named Tuni Schartner as its new director of partnerships and philanthropy. Schartner brings more than three decades of experience in community building, strategic partnerships, fundraising and organizational growth across Rhode Island’s nonprofit, entrepreneurial, economic development and civic sectors. In her new role, she will lead the organization’s efforts to strengthen philanthropic support, […]
Posted inNews
Pell Center survey links authoritarian attitudes to support for democratic norm violations
A new national survey from Salve Regina University’s Pell Center finds that Americans who score highest on a measure of authoritarian attitudes are the most likely to support political actions that violate democratic norms, even as such support remains relatively low across the population overall. The survey, directed by Pell Center Associate Director and Fellow […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council agenda for June 10 includes proposals on hotels, housing and tree preservation
The Newport City Council will meet Wednesday, June 10, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 43 Broadway, with a long agenda spanning policy resolutions, special event licenses and presentations from the city manager. Several resolutions sponsored by Councilor Steph Smyth are likely to draw attention. One would direct the city to […]
Posted inInstagram
Providence-Newport ferry service returns Friday with weekend stops in Bristol
Seastreak’s seasonal ferry service between Providence and Newport returns Friday, June 12, with multiple trips daily and weekend service to Bristol, the company announced. The one-hour route, run in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, offers passengers views of lighthouses, the Newport Pell Bridge and the Providence port. Adult fares start at $12 […]
Posted inCity & Government
Chamber’s Politics & Pancakes returns June 23 with finance chairmen Abney, DiPalma
The Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce will host its next Politics & Pancakes event Tuesday, June 23, at Ochre Court, featuring the two lawmakers who chair the General Assembly’s finance committees. House Finance Chairman Rep. Marvin L. Abney and Senate Finance Chairman Sen. Louis P. DiPalma are slated to speak to the local business community […]
Posted inCity & Government
Local Democratic party leaders endorse Foulkes and Khamsyvoravong over incumbents
by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island CurrentJune 9, 2026 The Democratic challengers for governor and lieutenant governor, Helena Buonanno Foulkes and Xay Khamsyvoravong, won the backing of local party leaders during a closed-door meeting at the Rochambeau Library in Providence Monday night. The Rhode Island Association of Democratic City and Town Chairs did not disclose vote […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Arts & Cultural Alliance to honor local artists at Raise Up the Arts event June 24
The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County will hold its annual Raise Up the Arts event Wednesday, June 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. in Easton’s Pavilion, upstairs at the Wyndham Newport Hotel, 240 Aquidneck Ave. The evening features live music, small bites and the presentation of four awards. The Newport String Project will […]
Posted inNews
RWU expands Blue Fellows Program in second year, adds Maine research partner
Roger Williams University has launched the second year of its Blue Fellows Program, expanding the marine research fellowship from seven to 10 students and adding a new research partner in Maine. The program, run through the university’s Center for Economic and Environmental Development, pairs undergraduates with faculty researchers and industry partners working on ocean-based projects […]
Posted inInstagram
What Sold: A look at recent home sales across Newport County (June 1 – 5)
Last week, 23 properties changed hands across Newport County, highlighted by several significant transactions in Jamestown. The island saw an eventful week, led by the sale of 10 Coulter Street for $6,500,000, along with two additional sales above the $2.5 million mark. Activity at the upper end of the market continues to demonstrate the enduring […]
Posted inHistory
On This Day In Newport History – June 9, 1869: Construction of First Torpedo Station on Goat Island Ordered
Secretary of the Navy Adolph E. Borie, ordered the construction of the first torpedo station on Goat Island on June 9, 1869. Cmdr. Edmund O. Matthews would become the first Commanding Officer, during the establishment, the station experimented with torpedoes and trained sailors in the use of the weapons. An Excerpt from The Navy and […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
Officials warn against contact with Newport’s Almy Pond over algae bloom
The Rhode Island Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Management are advising people to avoid all contact with Almy Pond in Newport because of a harmful algae bloom. The agencies said all recreation at the pond, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk and should be avoided. The bloom is caused […]
Posted inCity & Government
Salve Regina lecturer Michael Bahry launches independent U.S. Senate bid
Michael Bahry, a visiting lecturer at Salve Regina University and former construction executive, announced he is gathering the 1,000 signatures needed to appear on the ballot as an independent candidate for the U.S. Senate. Bahry would be running for the seat held by Democratic Sen. Jack Reed, who is seeking re-election to a term he […]
Posted inCity & Government
State budget includes Carson proposals to preserve Newport Hospital birthing center
The fiscal year 2027 state budget approved by the House of Representatives on Friday includes proposals from Rep. Lauren H. Carson to provide $1.6 million for Newport Hospital’s Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center and to make it harder to close any birthing center in the state. Carson proposed the funding in response to Brown University […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island slips to 26th for child well-being in national KIDS COUNT report
Rhode Island ranks 26th among the 50 states for child well-being, according to the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book released Monday by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, a drop from 20th the year before. The state’s overall rank, based on 2024 data, fell as it slid in two of the report’s four domains. The annual […]
Posted inNews
Cranston’s Ocean State Academy wins Rhode Island title in national math competition
Ocean State Academy, a private school for students with disabilities, has won a Rhode Island State Championship in the Prodigy State Challenge, billed as the world’s largest math competition, and went on to place near the top of the national field. The school said 98 percent of its elementary and middle school students took part, […]
Posted inNews
Raytheon to invest $100 million in Portsmouth expansion, adding 150 jobs
Raytheon, an RTX business, announced Monday it will invest $100 million to expand its Portsmouth facility, a project the company says will bring 150 high-tech jobs to the state. The expansion is intended to accelerate testing of the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor, or LTAMDS, by increasing capacity, and to boost production of […]
Posted inNews
Newport’s Secret Garden Tour returns June 26-28 with a focus on the Point
The Secret Garden Tour returns for its 42nd year June 26-28, opening the gates to 14 private gardens in Newport’s historic Point neighborhood for a series of self-guided walking tours. The tour, which begins at Storer Park near the causeway to Goat Island, features a mix of returning favorites and gardens new to the route, […]
Posted inCity & Government
Middletown, Jamestown and Block Island among 10 communities awarded state stormwater grants
The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank has awarded nearly $1.1 million in grants to 10 communities, including three in Newport County and the Islands, to design and engineer systems aimed at reducing flooding from increasingly intense storms. The bank awarded a total of $1,095,800 to Bristol, Coventry, East Greenwich, Hopkinton, Jamestown, Middletown, New Shoreham, Pawtucket, Providence […]