The Ocean Race fleet is expected to arrive in Newport on or around May 10-12, 2023, following an approximately 17-day trek from Itajai, Brazil. Before reaching the shores of the United States, the sailors will have completed 28,650 nautical miles, which is approximately 89% of the global race, which began on January 15, 2023. The […]
People & Profiles
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Meet Chris Swan, playing Daddy Warbucks in PPAC’s ‘Annie’
You could call Chris Swan a road warrior. Since 2014, he’s been traveling the road in one Broadway production or another. “The first was ‘A Christmas Story,’ where I played The Old Man,” said Swan recently. “That was the big one that got me into touring.” Next week, Swan comes to the Providence Performing Arts […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Evan Smith, President & CEO of Discover Newport
Update: Feb. 14 – This interview is being rescheduled at Smith’s request. We’ll update this story when a new time has been agreed upon. What’s ahead for travel and tourism in 2023? Just how bad or good was 2022 for the tourism industry? Evan Smith, President & CEO of Discover Newport, will join What’sUpNewp for […]
Posted inCity & Government
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
With construction underway at Rogers High School, regionalization with Middletown in limbo, and growing concerns in schools across the country about behavioral health issues – What’sUpNewp welcomes back Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain for her regular WUN videocast at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 25, 2023. We took a break over the holidays, but […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Podcast: A conversation with University of Rhode Island Economist Len Lardaro
University of Rhode Island Economist Len Lardaro, author of a monthly Rhode Island economic index, believes there is a 60 percent chance of what he calls a “vanilla” recession in 2023 and 70 percent in 2024. In this interview, he touches on immigration and its impact on employment, the economic importance of affordable housing, and […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Podcast: A conversation with former URI President Robert L. Carothers
Robert L. Carothers came to the University of Rhode Island, in the worst of times, and when he left 18 years later, URI and the state of Rhode Island were much better for his having been there. We catch up with Bob Carothers, as he now contemplates a second retirement, this one from College Unbound, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Ticket Giveaway: We interview Chris Spedding, coming to Newport’s Casino Theater Friday, January 20
A rock and roll mainstay will be headlining a rare live show at the Casino Theater in Newport on Friday, January 20. Guitarist Chris Spedding, best known for his studio work supporting just about every major artist to pass through the UK music scene since the late 1960s, will lead a trio of equally talented […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Kara McKee, awarded Passim Iguana Award, to record first album
A year and a half ago, Kara McKee quit her job in the corporate world to chase down her dream of being a full-time musician. After years of gigging at small clubs around New England, the daughter of RI Governor Dan McKee finally received some national attention when she appeared on NBC’s The Voice last […]
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong joins What’sUpNewp for a live conversation on Dec. 28
Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong joined What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation on Wednesday, December 28 at 2 pm. Over thirty minutes, What’sUpNewp’s Ryan Belmore chats with the Mayor about the Mayor’s first month on the job, what solutions he has for the Pell Bridge ramps construction project, what he sees as the latest with […]
Posted inCity & Government
The AP Interview: Vermont Sen. Leahy ponders his legacy
By WILSON RING Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. Patrick Leahy lingered on a narrow balcony on the west side of the U.S. Capitol, soaking in a panoramic view of the National Mall, the Washington Monument and, beyond, the Lincoln Memorial. “Now this I will miss,” he said. As Leahy closes out a Senate career […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Jazz Guitarist John Pizzarelli playing Jane Pickens on Dec. 16
John Pizzarelli will forever be associated with “The Wonder of it All,” that unforgettable jingle from the Foxwoods ad that ran on TV and radio heavily in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. Of course, the Grammy Award-winning guitarist’s career has been about a lot more. He’s most recognized as a leading interpreter of songs […]
Posted inCity & Government
Ethics in Rhode Island? Common Cause executive director, joins WUN for a live conversation on Thursday
Since its founding in Rhode Island more than 50 years ago, Common Cause Rhode Island has consistently been at the forefront of ethics reform, serving as a significant watchdog over local and state government in Rhode Island. John Marion, Common Cause executive director, joins WUN for a 4 p.m. videocast on Thursday, December 8. We’ll […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s Up Interview: Dave Sarazen of Laden Valley, playing Top of Pelham on Dec. 8
This is one of those “see them now, before they blow up” moments… happening Thursday, December 8 when Laden Valley, an up-and-coming Newport band plays a hometown gig at Top of Pelham. They’re even bringing an internationally known star along for the show. Fellow Newporter Elizabeth Beisel, best known as a medalist in Olympic swimming, […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Legendary rapper Kurtis Blow, appearing at PPAC Dec. 7 in ‘Hip Hop Nutcracker’
Going to see Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” during the holiday season is a time-honored tradition for many families. Over the past few years, a troupe of singers, dancers, and musicians have put a twist on the tradition in the award-winning production “Hip Hop Nutcracker.” Originally staged ten years ago, the show has grown in popularity and […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport School Superintendent Jermain joins WUN for a conversation on Wednesday
For Colleen Burns Jermain, Newport’s School Superintendent, it has been a challenging time — from the failed regionalization vote to revelations of expected substantial cost overruns for the Rogers High School construction project. Colleen joins WhatsUpNewp at 1:30 p.m. tomorrow (Wednesday) for her monthly live virtual video conversation with us. Is regionalization dead? Or does […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Marie Osmond, performing with RI Philharmonic at the Providence Performing Arts Center Dec. 22
With almost six decades in the entertainment industry behind her, you might expect Marie Osmond to be slowing down a bit. Definitely not the case. In an interview earlier this week, I found the multi-talented entertainer a juggernaut, going strong at age 63, moving forward, and loving life. I caught up with Osmond as she […]
Posted inCity & Government
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Xay Khamsyvoravong, Newport’s next Mayor
Xaykham Rexford Khamsyvoravong, “Xay” (pronounced “Sigh”) for short, joined What’sUpNewp for a one-on-one live virtual video conversation on Friday. Xay was the top vote-getter for Newport City Council At-Large in last week’s election and was chosen among Newport City Council-elect earlier this week to serve as the Chair/Mayor beginning in December. During the 40-minute conversation, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Craig O’Keefe of ‘The Sixties Show,’ coming to Jane Pickens November 20
Put on your tie-dye t-shirts, hop in your VW van and plan on heading on down to the Jane Pickens Film and Events Center on November 20. The Sixties Show is coming to town. The Sixties Show is a multimedia theatrical production built around classic songs from the decade that changed everything. The performance features […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Dick Lynn of Newport Live on ‘Women’s Voices’ series coming to Jamestown Arts Center
A unique concert series is coming to the Jamestown Arts Center this Fall. “Women’s Voices” is a program curated by Dick Lynn, Executive Director of Newport Live (formerly Common Fence Music). The series begins with singer-songwriter Dori Freeman who will be playing Saturday, November 5 at 6:30PM. (Tickets are available here.) Shows run every other […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Lily Meola, singer-songwriter opening for Ray LaMontagne at PPAC Nov. 1
A rising star in the music world will be at the Providence Performing Arts Center next week. That’s when singer-songwriter Lily Meola, fresh off receiving a golden buzzer on America’s Got Talent, opens for Ray LaMontagne as part of his MONOVISION Tour. Although she didn’t win the million-dollar prize on the popular talent show, Meola […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Drew Becker, star of ‘Tootsie,’ playing PPAC through Sunday Oct. 30
Drew Becker is just the third person to play Michael Dorsey and Dorothy Michaels. He’s the lead actor in “Tootsie,” the musical playing at the Providence Performing Arts Center this week. Dustin Hoffman originated the role in the 1982 film. Santino Fontana originated the role in the Broadway musical, earning a Tony Award in 2019 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
What’s Up Interview: Matt Stubbs of GA-20, playing Narrows Center on Friday Oct. 28
You may not have noticed, but a Providence-based band is at the top of the music charts. (No, we’re not speaking of that part-time Westerly resident named Taylor.) We’re talking about the hard-driving Blues trio GA-20. I spoke to Matt Stubbs, lead guitarist and co-founder of the band last week as he was on his […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Tim Brennan of Dropkick Murphys, playing The Vets Friday, Oct. 21
Known for hard-driving Celtic punk-rock, the Dropkick Murphy’s are shipping on down to the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence Friday, October 21. But don’t expect a typical Dropkick Murphys concert – instead of the usual highly-charged show, the Boston-based band will be playing a full night of acoustic music highlighting songs from their new album […]
Posted inThings To Do
UPDATED – What’s Up Interview: Jen Kearney, Boston singer-songwriter releases new album ‘Atlantic’
There are many professional musicians out there who defy categorization. Some boldly refuse to be corralled into a certain genre, an approach that undoubtedly has artistic merit, but sometimes has consequences on the commercial side of the business. Jen Kearney is one of those artists … highly talented, but difficult to classify. Her sound blends […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Andrea Gonzalez Caballero, performing at URI Guitar Festival Oct. 21
The 7th annual URI Guitar Festival is returning to the campus of the University of Rhode Island during the weekend of October 20-23. The event brings leading names in the world of classical guitar to the state, as well as musicians who cross over into other musical genres. I spoke with one of those artists, […]
Posted inHistory
Newport Socialite Alice Roosevelt: America’s first celebrity daughter?
“Princess” Alice Roosevelt Longworth, daughter of U.S. president Theodore Roosevelt and Alice Hathaway Lee Roosevelt, is sometimes regarded as the first American celebrity. Known for her staunch independence, escapades, wit, and nonconformity, Alice cemented a place for herself in history beyond that of a president’s daughter. In her lifetime, Alice attended thousands of dinners, balls, […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles
Concert Review and Photos: Rhythm and Roots Festival Day 2 – We interview festival organizers
Story contributed by Andy Smith CHARLESTOWN – Chuck Wentworth had just checked his heart rate at about 3 Saturday afternoon. “Normal sinus rhythm,” he announced. “At this point last year, I was at the opposite end of the spectrum.” Wentworth, founder of the Rhythm & Roots Festival, a South County fixture on Labor Day weekend, […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Newport woman selected for statewide minority leadership program
Niko Merritt of Newport is one of just 31 people statewide selected to participate in the Rhode Island Foundation’s Equity Leadership Initiative. The goal is to help build a pipeline of leaders of color for positions of influence throughout the state. Merritt is the founder and Executive Director of Sankofa Community Connection. Besides having worked for […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s Up Interview: Seth Rudetsky, coming to Theatre by the Sea Monday July 11
Sirius Radio’s Seth Rudetsky, one of the hosts on the Broadway Channel, brings his “Big Fat Broadway Show” to Theatre by the Sea on Monday, July 11. If you’ve heard him on Sirius, you know how quick-witted and talented he is. If you haven’t heard him, tune in. He’s a wealth of behind-the-scenes stories about […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Bob Mould, playing the Greenwich Odeum Thursday, May 26
Bob Mould may not be an everyday name in popular music, however, he is frequently cited as a major influence on several well-known bands. In his case, acts like Nirvana, Soul Asylum, Foo Fighters and countless others have referenced Mould as a fundamental influence on their sound. We’ll call him a punk “influencer,” if there […]
Posted inCity & Government
Mayor Napolitano will join What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation on Tuesday
There’s no shortage of major issues facing the Newport City Council as it prepares for a busy tourism season, and perhaps a busier election year. Newport Mayor Jeanne Marie Napolitano joins What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation tomorrow (Tuesday) at noon where we’ll explore many issues. Update – Mayor Napolitano wasn’t able to make […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Review: ‘Incomparable Grace’ succinct, absorbing look at JFK
By ANDREW DeMILLO Associated Press “Incomparable Grace: JFK in the Presidency” by Mark K. Updegrove (Dutton) This cover image released by Dutton shows “Incomparable Grace: JFK in the Presidency” by Mark K. Updegrove. (Dutton via AP) Nearly six decades after his assassination in Dallas, President John F. Kennedy and his legacy remain an obsession for […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Review: Actor Viola Davis bares soul on way to ‘Finding Me’
By DOUGLASS K. DANIEL Associated Press “Finding Me: A Memoir” by Viola Davis (HarperOne) Brutally honest and honestly brutal, actor Viola Davis looks back on her childhood like the victim of a disaster still dazed by the experience but remembering every terrible moment. Her alcoholic father routinely beat and bloodied her mother. Viola and her […]
Posted inNews
NPT HAUS diversifies Newport music scene with high-energy techno
Earlier this year, local cousins and house music enthusiasts Katie Marie Benisch-Egan (she/her) and Kelsey Morgan (she/her) launched NPT HAUS, an event production company focused on building an inclusive community grounded in a love of house and techno music. Their first dance parties at Bar and Board Bistro’s Leopard Lounge this winter were a smashing […]
Posted inNews, People & Profiles, Sports
Opening Day at Fenway Park: Meet two MLB players born in Newport
With the baseball season underway, it’s a good time to look back at some of the ballplayers who hail from our area. There have been over 100 MLB players born in Rhode Island, including two born in Newport. In addition, eight managers, including Woonsocket native Rocco Baldelli who currently skippers the Minnesota Twins, were born […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Blues musician Selwyn Birchwood
Real music comes from the soul, believes singer-songwriter/guitarist Selwyn Birchwood. “The music that I enjoy is music that comes from people’s souls, it comes from people’s actual experiences rather than imitating what other people have experienced,” he told me in a recent interview. “Music is more authentic when people are putting themselves out there. You […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Concert Recap and Photos: The Winehouse Project at The Met
Good times were rolling at The Met in Pawtucket Friday, April 1 when The Winehouse Project took the stage. Known for great live shows, the Amy Winehouse tribute band has lately been tearing it up around New England and beyond. Led by vocalist Lisa Kay, the nine-piece band rocked hard through two sets of Winehouse […]
Posted inCity & Government
Merger talks on again? We’ll ask when Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joins us Wednesday for her monthly videocast
It appears school merger talks are on again between Middletown and Newport officials, and now we’d like to learn more. Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joins WhatsUpNewp for her monthly videocast tomorrow (Wednesday) at 1:30 p.m. We’ll ask for particulars as the two systems move toward what is being called a merger of “organizational […]
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
What’s Up Interview: A Ukrainian native shares her story
Olga Fedorenko, a nurse practitioner at a primary care office in Warwick, came to Rhode Island from Ukraine in 1991 to be with her partner, who had been living here for a year and a half at the time. They married, became citizens, and raised two kids who are now 28 and 20. But Olga’s […]
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
One on WUN: A conversation with Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain
With the state’s school masking mandate ending next week, will Newport’s public schools also lift the mandate? We’ll learn more today at 1:30 p.m. when School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joins WhatsUpNewp for her monthly videocast.We’ll also learn more about the school department’s effort to cover increasing costs for its school building project – additional […]
Posted inNews
Introducing Bellevue Boards, Broadway’s newest woman-owned business
Bellevue Boards, a new charcuterie board business owned by Newport resident Jackie Connor, opened its doors at 84 Broadway last weekend and is taking orders on bellevueboards.com. Each arrangement is handcrafted by Connor, who came to Newport as a college student at Salve Regina and just completed her MBA at the school in 2021. Jackie […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Jazz pianist Greg Murphy coming to the Narrows Center Saturday Feb. 19
When it comes to jazz music, Chicago native Greg Murphy isn’t too concerned about being constrained by genre. He’s perfectly comfortable leading his band on classics like the Coltrane-inspired “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” while also adept at jazz takes on popular hits from his youth, like Seals and Croft’s “Summer Breeze.” Murphy’s trio, including bassist Paul […]
Posted inArts & Culture, News, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Choreographer Patti Wilcox of “An Officer and a Gentleman” – at PPAC Feb 18-20
Patti Wilcox was pretty cheery when we chatted recently. “I’ve just arrived in Detroit and it’s great.” When I pointed out that “Detroit” and “great” don’t often appear in the same sentence, she laughed. “It’s a good tour city, and it is the home of Motown, so…” Wilcox is part of the creative team that […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
What’s Up Interview: Mike Reilly of Pure Prairie League
One of FM radio’s most iconic songs is one that was almost never a hit. “Amie” was first released in 1972 on Pure Prairie League’s second album Bustin’ Out. Other albums followed as the song became a favorite “album cut” on the radio, until it was finally released as a single in 1975. It became […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Stephane Wrembel Playing the Knickerbocker Friday Feb. 11
“Winter is when nature dreams, it’s like nature is asleep and dreaming,” muses guitarist Stephane Wrembel. “I always found that winter is very romantic in a very subconscious way. Everything is bare and we need to be reborn. I think dreams are fabricated then.” Deep thoughts from one of the world’s great guitarists, Stephane Wrembel, […]
Posted inFood & Drink, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Lisa McCurdy of RI Brew Fest – Coming to Waterfire Arts Center Saturday Feb. 5
Where can you find over 50 local and regional breweries sharing their bounty this weekend? At the Rhode Island Brew Fest, of course, returning to the Waterfire Arts Center in Providence after skipping last year due to the pandemic. We learned more about the 2022 Festival from Lisa McCurdy of Gray Matter Marketing, one of […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Shawnn Monteiro playing Chan’s Saturday, Feb. 5
Jazz singer Shawnn Monteiro is returning to Chan’s Saturday night after a 20-year absence from the legendary venue famous for “egg rolls, jazz and blues.” The show comes on the heels of her new release You Are There, an album of jazz standards featuring Monteiro on vocals fronting two stellar studio bands. I spoke to […]
Posted inArts & Culture, News, People & Profiles
Local surfer’s One Last Wave Project helps thousands cope with grief
When he posted this TikTok video on January 4th in hopes of connecting with others experiencing profound grief, local surfer Dan Fischer didn’t know he was starting a worldwide movement to help people cope with the loss of a loved one. In less than four weeks, Fischer’s viral invitation to share the names and stories […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles
What’s Up Interview: Doug Woolverton, playing Miles Davis tribute Valentines shows Feb. 12 -13
Among the many great musicians who call Rhode Island home, Doug Woolverton stands out from the crowd. The trumpeter has played with nationally known artists like Aretha Franklin, Warren Haynes, Roomful of Blues, and most recently, blues keyboardist Victor Wainwright. Woolverton and his band will be playing a special Valentine’s show at the Updike Room […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Will tourism rebound in 2022; Discover Newport’s Evan Smith joins WUN for a live interview on Wednesday
No industry has suffered more than tourism during the pandemic, and no community in Rhode Island is more reliant upon tourism than Newport. Evan Smith, executive director of Discover Newport, joins What’s Up Newp for a live virtual video interview at 2 pm tomorrow (Wednesday) to look back at 2021 and to look ahead to next […]
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: Councilor Ceglie joins WUN for monthly live interview on Wednesday
Update – Since publishing this, the Mayor’s office has made us aware that Lynn Underwood Ceglie, Vice-Chair and At-Large Councilor, will be filling in for Mayor Napolitano. Newport Vice-Chair, At-Large Councilor Lynn Underwood Ceglie, on the heels of a divisive City Council meeting over North End zoning, joins What’s Up Newp for a live virtual […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles
Community rallies behind Philip Easton Landers, a beloved local artist and coach, as he fights spinal cancer
Cancer is a disease that has touched the lives of many. Unfortunately, it has recently affected a young adult in the local community. Last June, I wrote an article about the HOPE mural that local artist Philip Easton Landers painted at the Fifth Element on Broadway. This design has become synonymous with the positive and […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Olympic Swimmer Elizabeth Beisel will make a record-breaking swim to Block Island (Updated)
Three-time Olympian, silver medalist, and 2016 Team USA Captain, Elizabeth Beisel is poised to make history on Wednesday, September 22, when she swims from mainland Rhode Island (Matunuck Beach) to Block Island in her BLOCK CANCER SWIM. Update: 12 pm on September 21 Elizabeth Beisel’s safety team just moved her swim due to increasing surf and […]
Posted inCity & Government
General Treasurer Seth Magaziner joins WUN for a live virtual conversation on July 14
Rhode Island General Treasurer Seth Magaziner joins WUN for a videocast on Wednesday, July 14, at 12:30 p.m. to talk about school and green infrastructure initiatives, the passage of important legislation that expands financial literacy in schools, and for adults. He will also talk about the Treasurer’s office’s unclaimed property program, which recently announced It […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with PJ Finn, Executive Director of MVY Radio (June 30 at 1 pm)
What’s Up Newp’s Ryan Belmore and Ken Abrams will be joined by PJ Finn, Executive Director of WMVY radio based on Martha’s Vineyard, for a live virtual video interview on Wednesday, June 30 at 1 pm. Finn will be talking about the history of the station, the station’s recent move to new studios, and the […]
Posted inNews
Nellie M. Gorbea announces candidacy for Governor
Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea, 54, of North Kingstown, officially announced her candidacy for governor in 2022, challenging current Governor Dan McKee, who assumed the governorship only a few months ago when Gov. Gina Raimondo joined the Biden Administration. Gorbea, who was born and raised in Puerto Rico and became the first Hispanic elected to […]
Posted inNews
Police Detective/legislator to share his views on police accountability
There are few issues more volatile today than policing around the country. Local communities, state legislatures, and Congress are grappling with proposed legislation that would significantly impact policing on a local level, demanding more accountability. Greg Howard, a detective in Stonington, CT also serves as a state Representative in Connecticut, and is chief among legislators […]
Posted inBusiness, People & Profiles, Things To Do
What’s Up Interview: Steve Iwanski of Charter Books – Opening this weekend
Bookselling is what I love, and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life doing it here in Newport.
Posted inArts & Culture
LIVE ON WUN: A conversation with musician Nick Casey (April 19 at 7 pm)
Musician Nick Casey will join What’s Up Newp for a conversation on Monday, April 19 at 7 pm. The Nick Casey Band was founded in July 2018. Residing in the state of Rhode Island, the band consists of Nick Casey on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Ryan Tremblay on lead guitar, Olivia Baxter on fiddle, […]
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
History in the Making: Newport Historical Society’s interview with What’s Up Newp’s Ryan Belmore
Newport Historical Society’s Executive Director Ruth Taylor recently sat down, virtually, with What’s Up Newp’s Ryan Belmore to discusses the shift in community journalism that has taken place over the past year, and What’s Up Newp’s pivot from reporting on local events to providing detailed coverage of quarantine protocols, vaccine distribution, unsung heroes and more, […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
RI-based Singer-Songwriter Charlie Marie Releases New Single
March 17, 2021 – Charlie Marie has a voice that will absolutely floor you, but what really makes the Rhode Island native stand out is her ability to write songs that tweak traditional country music tropes, or simply turn them on their head completely. Her latest single “El Paso,” which is based on an actual experience, […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Folk and Jazz Artists dominate Grammy Awards
Like most awards shows this year, tonight’s Grammy Awards (hosted by The Daily Show’s Trevor Noah), will be quite different from years past. Many presenters, including Lizzo and Ringo Starr, will be streaming in remotely, and workers from shuttered concert venues will be presenting awards. Headliners include Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Megan Thee […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Cellini With a Chainsaw
With sawdust dancing in the air to the high-pitched whine of the two-stroke chainsaw as the faint smells of burning pine mixed with gasoline, Taylor Olson literally carves out an artistic niche along the side of the road in the rural village of Carolina. The sheer volume of work he has been able to turn […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Boch Center presents “Women Who Rock” Celebration of Female Musicians
The Boch Center (Boston) is now showing “Women Who Rock,” a digital exhibit celebrating female musicians during Women’s History Month. Featuring photographs taken by Susan Wilson of artists including Tracy Chapman, Patty Griffin, and Tina Turner, the exhibit showcases more than a dozen images taken at the Wang Theatre and other venues across Boston, as […]
Posted inSports
Patriots and Revolution to host Women in Sports Panel on March 11
The New England Patriots and New England Revolution this week announced that they will host a virtual hour-long panel featuring influential women in sports on Thursday, March 11 at 1:00 p.m. The panelists will discuss their careers and the challenges they have overcome to become leaders in the sports industry. According to a press release from […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN’s Author Series continues with novelist Regina Andrews
What’s Up Newp continues its authors’ series on Tuesday morning at 11:30 when award-winning novelist Regina Andrews of Providence joins us for a videocast. She is the author of numerous works and 2010 winner of AKW Books eBook of the Year Award for fiction for her novel, Destiny’s Designs. Andrews grew up Barrington. After graduating […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
Watch | WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Stefan Pryor, Secretary of Commerce – State of Rhode Island (Dec. 21 at 5 pm)
Stefan Pryor, Rhode Island’s Secretary of Commerce, will join WUN’s Ryan Belmore for a live virtual video conversation at 5 pm on Monday, December 21. Update – This interview was moved from 1:15 pm to 5 pm Pryor will provide an update on the status of funding for small businesses, chat about financial resources available […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
VIDEO: A conversation with The Boston Globe’s Kara Baskin
The Boston Globe’s Kara Baskin has been diving deep into many issues parents are facing – from balancing remote and hybrid schooling, how Thanksgiving will look during the pandemic, to divorcee co-parenting – in a weekly newsletter, “In the Family Way.” Kara joined WhatsUpNewp for a live conversation via video at 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday […]
Posted inBusiness, Environment & Health, News, People & Profiles
After a difficult few months, The Bodhi Spa opens in Providence
Last week, The Bodhi Spa co-founders and sisters Cedar Hwang and Harmony Oschefski opened the doors of a new location at 186 Broadway in Providence. In the midst of a pandemic, the path to launching the hydrotherapy spa – known for its unique Water Journey – in historic Federal Hill was long, hard-fought, and put […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
VIDEO | A conversation with Bud Craddock, DMV administrator
Bud Craddock, administrator of the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles, joined What’s Up Newp at 1 pm on Tuesday, October 13 to chat about a couple of important scheduling developments for registry customers – including the end of grace periods for license/registrations at the end of this month and the restarting Saturday office hours.
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
Ruth Bader Ginsburg helped shape the modern era of women’s rights – even before she went on the Supreme Court
Jonathan Entin, Case Western Reserve University Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died on Friday, the Supreme Court announced. Chief Justice John Roberts said in a statement that “Our nation has lost a jurist of historic stature.” Even before her appointment, she had reshaped American law. When he nominated Ginsburg to the Supreme Court, President Bill Clinton […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles
Love Over Everything: New album by Newport hip-hop artist Camden Murphy out today
It’s going to be a great day for local music fans. Today, Newport-based hip-hop artist Camden Murphy will release his first feature album entitled “Love Over Everything”. Born and raised on Aquidneck Island, Murphy says he remembers writing lyrics all the way back to third grade. “I would scribble down rhymes in my notebooks and […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Columns, People & Profiles
Brian C. Jones: For seniors touched by a pandemic, parking lot paintings told of their talents and dreams
The Lorax presumably still speaks “for the trees,” but from now on the Dr. Seuss character won’t have a high school’s asphalt parking lot from which to broadcast his warnings against environmental folly and ruin. THE LORAX, a character in a book by children’s author Dr. Seuss, “speaks for the trees” in warning against the […]
Posted inArts & Culture, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Paul Hoffman, pastor, scholar and author
Pastor Paul Hoffman, lead pastor of Evangelical Friends Church of Newport, will join us to discuss his latest book, “Reconciling Places: How to Bridge the Chasms in our Communities,” that was recently published. In Reconciling Places, pastor and scholar Paul Hoffman introduces laypeople and ministry leaders to a “theology of reconciliation” that equips Christians to […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Keith Stokes
Keith Stokes, Vice President of the 1696 Heritage Group, will join us to discuss the recent effort to advance Black History for K-12 public schools and other efforts around state. The 1696 Heritage Group is a historical consulting firm dedicated to helping persons and institutions of color to increase their knowledge and access to the […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with RI Solidarity Fund
Newport, RI – The Rhode Island Solidarity Fund has brought together 6 community-led relief efforts to offer a one-stop option for community members and foundations seeking to contribute directly to frontline relief during the Coronavirus crisis. In this conversation we’ll be joined by Christopher V. Samih-Rotondo, Director of Organizing, Development, and Communications at Direct Action […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Joe Louis Walker, Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award winner
Newport, RI – Joe Louis Walker, a Blues Hall of Fame inductee and four-time Blues Music Award winner who has a career that exceeds a half a century, joins us for a conversation at 10 am on Wednesday, June 24th. Walker, who recently released BLUES COMIN’ ON, has appeared on multiple Grammy winning albums. Tune […]
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WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Henry ‘Rick’ Lombardi Jr.
Middletown Town Councilor Henry ‘Rick’ Lombardi Jr. has announced his candidacy for Rhode Island House District 74 (Jamestown, Middletown). We’ll chat with Rick about his decision to run for District 74 and more.
Posted inPeople & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Casby Harrison
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Casby Harrison, Owner of Harrison Law Associates and former Deputy Legal Counsel to Governor Bruce Sundlun, will join us to chat about the protests, long standing issues, and more.
Posted inPeople & Profiles, Sports
What’s Up Podcast: A conversation with Bekah Salwasser, Executive Director of Red Sox Foundation
For Bekah Salwasser, a Brown University graduate and former professional soccer player and now executive director of the Red Sox Foundation, the rewards come by way of helping to find food for those displaced by COVID-19; by helping organizations cope with their community’s mental health needs; or by way of an 11-year-old boy, his father […]
Posted inCity & Government, Environment & Health, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Dr. James McDonald, Rhode Island Department of Health
Dr. James McDonald from the Rhode Island Department Of Health will join us on this edition of WUN-ON-ONE on Tuesday, May 19th at 2 pm to discuss the latest on COVID-19. Dr. McDonald has served at the Rhode Island Department of Health since 2012 as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Board of Medical Licensure […]
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What’s Up Podcast: Caitlin Frumerie, executive director of Rhode Island Coalition for the Homeless
The headline reads “During the Covid-19 pandemic, nowhere is safe for homeless people.” That is as valid in San Francisco and London as it is in Rhode Island, where estimates range from 1,000 to 5,000 homeless. The variation depends upon who is measuring, from the very narrow definition by federal Housing and Urban Development, to counts by a variety of advocacy groups. […]
Posted inCity & Government, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Lt. Governor Dan McKee
Lt. Governor Dan McKee joins us to chat about the impact COVID-19 has had on small businesses in Rhode Island, to share what resources are available, and much more.
Posted inPeople & Profiles
What’s Up Podcast: Suzanna Laramee, president and chief executive officer, Newport Music Festival
To many, the Newport Music Festival, the chamber music festival in the city’s mansions, is the stepchild of the city’s folk and jazz festivals. But it has been a major force for more than 50 years, and according to Suzanna Laramee, president, and chief executive officer, generates $2 million in revenue to the city each […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
What’s Up Podcast: Heather Strout, executive director, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center
“I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education, culture of their minds, and dignity, equality, and freedom for their spirits.” These words by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. were never more appropriate for those individuals on the front lines like Heather Strout and her […]
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Representative Lauren Carson
Representative Lauren Carson (District 75, Newport) joined us today on May 6th to chat about how COVID-19 is impacting her district.
Posted inCity & Government, News, People & Profiles
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Newport Mayor Jamie Bova, Vice Chair Susan Taylor, and City Manager Joe Nicholson
Newport Mayor Jamie Bova, Vice Chair Susan Taylor and City Manager Joe Nicholson will join What’s Up Newp on Wednesday, May 6th at 10 am to chat about COVID-19 in the city. Find out more about the city’s response to COVID-19, resources available, what’s to come during the phases of reopening, and more. For additional […]
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What’s Up Video: A convo with Evan Smith, CEO and President of Discover Newport
Evan Smith, President & CEO of Discover Newport, joins What’s Up Newp’s Ryan Belmore to chat about the impact COVID-19 has had on tourism, travel, and hospitality. Discover Newport, a non-profit destination management organization, is dedicated to the promotion of the City of Newport and its eight surrounding townships in Newport and Bristol Counties. In […]
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What’s Up Podcast: A conversation with Paul Wayne, the penultimate opening act
You might call Paul Wayne the penultimate opening act. He’s been doing it for more than three decades, opening for the likes of Harry Belafonte, Chuck Berry and numerous stars of today and yesterday. He works in night clubs and at assisted living facilities, pounding out a living every day. But today the clubs are […]
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What’s Up Podcast: A conversation with Colleen Burns Jermain, Superintendent of Newport Public Schools
Newport Superintendent of Schools Colleen Burns Jermain joins WUN’s Frank Prosnitz this morning for our latest edition of What’s Up Podcast. In today’s episode she discusses the status and success of the school system’s distance learning program, talks about a grading system that might be used this year, budget issues, and the status of the […]
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Retired NUWC Division Newport employee quilting hundreds of cloth masks for those who need them
The following story is by the Public Affairs Office at Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport. When Tammy Ruggeri retired from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport in August 2019, after 32 years of service, she thought she would have more time for one of her hobbies, quilting. She never imagined, though, that […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
A Newporter’s COVID-19 ‘billboard’ has a new message, aimed at passerby with four legs as well as two
Suzi Van Ness has posted a new message on her homegrown billboard-of- hope that may add cheer to both humans and their four-legged best friends: SHARE JOY “WAG” YOUR TAIL! THE WINDOW turned billboard at 65 Carroll Ave., Newport, has a new message to cheer passersby during the COVID-19 crisis, this one aimed at both […]
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What’s Up Podcast: Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea discusses COVID-19 crisis
Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea today joined What’s Up’s Frank Prosnitz to discuss changes her office is making during this coronavirus crisis to make things easier for voters and businesses. Gorbea also touches on the move of the state archives to a new location, importance of the census, and puts off questions about her own […]
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What’s Up Podcast: Ivan Colón, Philanthropy Officer for Care New England
With today being 401Gives Day, What’s Up Newp and What’s Up Rhode Island are touching base with local and statewide nonprofits to see how funds raised today and throughout the year help support their organization and mission. In this edition of What’s Up Podcast, we catch up with Ivan S. Colón, Philanthropy Officer Annual Giving […]
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Photos: ‘Hearts For Healthcare Workers’ in North Kingstown
The parents of a six-year-old in North Kingstown yesterday told What’s Up Rhode Island photographer Morgan Macia that their daughter wanted to make this sign and hang it out in front of their house to thank healthcare workers. ???? Photos by Morgan Macia / Macia Photography for What’s Up Rhode Island.
Posted inCity & Government, People & Profiles
What’s Up Podcast: John Marion, executive director of Common Cause in Rhode Island
John Marion, executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, talks with WUN’s Frank Prosnitz about the challenges that COVID – 19 puts on state and local government open meeting and ethics laws. John Marion, Executive Director of the Common Cause in Rhode Island They also talk about the census, its importance to Rhode Island, which faces […]
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What’s Up Podcast: Conversations and moments from Newport, R.I., and beyond
From the award-winning team behind What’s Up Newp and What’s Up Rhode Island, What’s Up Podcast brings you interesting conversations and moments from Newport, Rhode Island & beyond. Listen to “What's Up Podcast” on Spreaker.
Posted inNews, People & Profiles
Unsung Heroes: Jenni Field
Editor’s Note: What’s Up Newp and What’s Up Rhode Island are asking readers to nominate unsung heroes from the community during this COVID-19 crisis. Jenni Field was among those nominated. Normally, Newport-based Master Seamstress Jenni Field puts her passions for sewing and upcycling to work by creating eco-friendly personal accessories, housewares, and décor out of […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
COVID-19: We want to hear about the ‘unsung heroes’ during these tough times
To say that we’re living in a unprecedented time would absolutely be an understatement. Most businesses are closed, the healthiest option for us is to lock ourselves in our homes, and we don’t know when any of it is going to end. But in tough times there are always those who step up, go above […]