It will be a busy week for the Newport City Council. On Tuesday at 4:30 pm, Newport City Council hosted a workshop where they will receive a COVID-19 crisis update from City Manager Joe Nicholson. During COVID-19 update, Newport City Manager Joe Nicholson tells members of the City Council that he’s considering stopping restaurants from […]
Coronavirus Disease
Posted inCity & Government, News
Newport City Council to consider resolution that would require pedestrians to wear masks at all hours on downtown streets
Newport City Council is considering expanding cloth mask regulations on some of its downtown streets. A resolution introduced by Vice Chair Susan Taylor last week would require that “pedestrians wear masks at all hours (unless wearing a mask would be harmful to a person’s health) on the following streets: Broadway between Gould Street and Farewell […]
Posted inNews
MLK Center prepares to reopen education programs
(From the MLK Center updates) After 10 long weeks of coping with the coronavirus, we are beginning to “dip our toes in the water” of reopening our education programs. Our Preschool will reopen June 1st, and we are awaiting final approval on our plan to open Summer Camp. We are following all Rhode Island Department of […]
Posted inFood & Drink, News
Phase II of Reopening RI expected to start June 1, indoor dining, hair salons, and gyms to reopen
During her press briefing on Friday afternoon, Governor Raimondo said that her intention is to move to Phase II of Reopening RI on Monday, June 1st. We’ve included the guidance for Phase II below. Additional detailed guidance is expected to be rolled out on reopeningri.com early next week. A few highlights from her announcements; Beginning […]
Posted inCity & Government
DEM issues COVID-19, other safety guidelines as boating season kicks off in Rhode Island
by Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. As we approach Memorial Day and the start of the boating season, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is asking boaters to follow COVID-19 social distancing rules and other safety guidelines at marinas and boatyards and while they’re on the water. “This year, as we’re dealing with the […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 21: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Gina Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department of Health hosted a press briefing to provide an update on COVID-19 in Rhode Island at 1 pm on Thursday, May 21st. Updates from the press briefing Gov: At tomorrow’s 1 pm press briefing, she will discuss roll out of Phase II. Gov: 25,000 Rhode Islanders have […]
Posted inNews
COVID-19 forces cancellation of 2020 ORC/IRC World Championship
by New York Yacht Club Despite a strong entry list from the United States and abroad, and the exhaustive efforts of the New York Yacht Club along with the governing bodies for the ORC and IRC rating rules, the decision has been made to cancel the 2020 ORC/IRC World Championships, originally scheduled for Sept. 25 […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 20: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Gina Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department of Health will host a press briefing to provide an update on COVID-19 in Rhode Island at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, May 20th. Updates From Press Briefing Gov: Press Briefing will take place at 1 pm on Thursday and Friday. No press briefing on Saturday, Sunday, or […]
Posted inNews
Collaboration between the state and Rhode Island National Guard accomplishes mission
Story by Staff Sgt. Kristi Mcdonald / Joint Force Headquarters, Rhode Island National Guard | This story originally appeared here The Rhode Island National Guard (RING) has a unique and important mission. The service members are people from the local community that serve their country and state on a part time basis. Soldiers and Airmen of […]
Posted inFood & Drink, News
Onne van der Wal and family launch Pop-Up Dining Room to support local restaurants
Over the last 72 hours, Newport social media has been buzzing about The Pop-up Dining Room, a mobile dinner space launched by renowned nautical photographer Onne van der Wal and his family. The van der Wals’ innovative pop-up idea was borne out of a desire to support their favorite local restaurants during the pandemic as […]
Posted inBusiness, City & Government, Food & Drink
Newport restaurants asked to submit plans for outdoor dining
by City of Newport. As Rhode Island begins to re-open for business, restaurants interested in offering outdoor dining are being asked to submit plans to the City to allow for expanded operations that would otherwise require Zoning or Council approval. All proposals should follow guidance provided by the State Department of Health as detailed at […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 19: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Gina Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department hosted a press briefing on COVID-19 in Rhode Island on Tuesday, May 19th at 1 pm. Press Briefing Updates Gov: Announces new app, Crush Covid RI. Available for free download in Apple store/Google Play. Gov: June 1st remains target date for reopening childcare. State providing 50,000 surgical […]
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 […]
Posted inNews
Study: Rhode Island has second most coronavirus restrictions in the U.S.
With most states partially reopened after closing down non-essential businesses earlier in the COVID-19 pandemic, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released updated rankings for the States with the Fewest Coronavirus Restrictions. To identify which states have the fewest and most coronavirus restrictions, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 11 key metrics. […]
Posted inCity & Government
All state parks now open, two state beaches to open on Memorial Day
The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced that all Rhode Island state parks, including Rocky Point State Park and Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick, are now open to visitors. “Getting outdoors and enjoying the beauty of nature are great ways to relieve stress and important to public health. DEM’s Division of Parks and Recreation recognizes […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 18: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health host their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 1 pm. Press Briefing Updates Gov: Programming – press briefing at 1 pm on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, at 2:30 pm on Wednesday. Gov: On beaches – On Memorial Day, state will be opening East Matunuck State Beach and Scarborough […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Governor Raimondo details metrics for moving between phases of reopening
Governor Raimondo laid out four different metrics, in addition to the state’s operational response, that officials are tracking as they consider moving between phases of reopening. Hospital capacity: If the state continues to see less than 70% of ICU and non-ICU beds filled by COVID-19 patients, that is an indicator that it is safe to continue […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Emergency court measures extended to June 1st; Washington, Newport County courthouses to remain closed until September 8th
An executive order issued today by Rhode Island Supreme Court ChiefJustice Paul A. Suttell continues emergency measures that were first implemented on March 17 and were due to expire on May 17. The order addresses the gradual continuity of court services and operations that had been curtailed as the pandemic spread in Rhode Island. Among […]
Posted inCity & Government
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Stefan Pryor, Secretary of Commerce for State of Rhode Island | May 15th at 2 pm
What’s Up Newp presents WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Stefan Pryor, Secretary of Commerce for the State of Rhode Island on Friday, May 15th at 2 pm. Secretary Pryor oversees and coordinates the State agencies and offices responsible for economic development, business regulation, housing, and workforce development. Watch it live here on our website (we’ll post […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 14: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health hosted their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 1 pm. Updates From Press Briefing Gov: Programming – Press briefing at 1 pm on Friday, taking weekend off from press briefing. Gov: “I cannot wait for the day that I can get up here and say, “There’s no more […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink
WUN-ONE-ONE: Restaurant Roundtable – A conversation with five local restaurateurs about COVID-19 and how they plan to move forward
As part of our ongoing WUN-ON-ONE series, today we’ll be hosting a restaurant roundtable at 3 pm. Local restaurants will speak about COVID-19 challenges, opportunities, and the days, weeks, and months ahead. Featuring: Charlie Holder, Midtown Oyster Bar & Surf Club; Sue Lamond, Salvation Cafe; Rich Willis, Caleb & Broad; and Anna Burnley, The Mission […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
City of Newport’s 4th of July fireworks display will be postponed, could be cancelled
In the best case scenario, the City of Newport’s Fourth Of July Fireworks Display will be postponed until August, September, or this fall. In the worst case scenario for firework admirers, they will be cancelled. In a memorandum to Newport City Council, City Manager Joe Nicholson requested the Council’s direction with regard to holding or […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink
Rhode Island businesses required to develop a written COVID-19 Control Plan by May 18th
As part of Governor Raimondo’s Reopening RI plan, all businesses must develop a written COVID-19 Control Plan outlining how its workplace will prevent the spread of COVID-19. While this plan does not need to be submitted to a state agency for approval, it must be retained on the premises of the business and must made […]
Posted inBusiness, City & Government
Aquidneck Island communities launch joint recovery effort
Aquidneck Island’s three municipalities are banding together to help the island’s economy recover from the COVID-19 outbreak. The City of Newport today announced that they have join the towns of Middletown and Portsmouth on a joint effort to help businesses re-open and job seekers get back to work as quickly and as seamlessly as possible. […]
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 inBusiness, City & Government, Food & Drink
Newport City Manager signs Executive Order allowing all restaurants to offer outdoor dining
Newport City Manager Joe Nicholson on Tuesday signed an Executive Order that will allow all existing victualing licenses offering service at tables or at counters to offer outdoor service. During her COVID-19 press briefing on Monday, Governor Raimondo announced that restaurants will be allowed to reopen for on-premise outdoor dining beginning Monday, May 18. According […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 13: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health will hold their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 2:30 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live, and provide updates, below as it happens. Updates From Press Briefing Gov: Press Briefing scheduled for 1 pm on Thursday and Friday. Gov: On hospitals – “they are open and […]
Posted inNews
Newport Hospital’s Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund awards $20,000 in grants
In response to community need and challenges brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Newport Hospital’s Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund this week announced that it has awarded $20,000 in emergency grants to four Aquidneck Island nonprofit organizations. The funds will support increasing access to healthy foods and meals for children and youth. The organizations […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink
Middletown accepting applications for outdoor dining
Middletown has passed an executive order that will permit the temporary expansion of outdoor dining at local restaurants. The Town announced on Tuesday that it will be accepting applications from restaurants to permit the service and consumption of food in outdoor portions of the licensed premises on or after May 18, 2020. Restaurants with a […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink
RI Hospitality Association and RI Hospitality Education Foundation announce free training for hospitality professionals through May 31
The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) and RI Hospitality Education Foundation (RIHEF) today announced that they wil lbe hosting free workforce training and educational opportunities for hospitality professionals through May 31st through a partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) and National Restaurant Association (NRA). The AHLA is offering a variety of complimentary training […]
Posted inCity & Government
EOHHS program earmarks $8.2M in additional wages to congregate care workers
Governor Raimondo on Tuesday announced that the state has committed $8.2 million in additional wages to congregate care workers who make less than $20 an hour, a step seen as critical to supporting and maintaining a workforce on the frontlines of the COVID-19 public health crisis. Gov. Gina Raimondo’s Workforce Stabilization Loan Program is expected […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health, News
How to get groceries without going to the grocery store
If the thought of going grocery shopping gives you major anxiety right now, it’s not unwarranted. Coronavirus outbreaks have been reported at large grocery stores and mass food production locations like industrial meat processing plants throughout the US. Fortunately, many alternatives to large grocery chain stores exist with accessible shopping and delivery options that will […]
Posted inNews
Nurses on the front lines: A history of heroism from Florence Nightingale to coronavirus
Leslie Neal-Boylan, University of Massachusetts Lowell Nurses are heroes of the COVID-19 crisis. May 12 is International Nurses Day, which commemorates the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the first “professional nurse.” The World Health Organization also named this year the “Year of the Nurse” in honor of Nightingale’s 200th birthday. To nurses everywhere, this day and […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Senator Whitehouse proposes bill to slow the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse’s office today announced that the Senator and Bob Casey (D-PA) are proposing a bill that would provide $20 billion to help states, nursing homes, and intermediate care facilities contain the spread of COVID-19. The Nursing Home COVID-19 Protection and Prevention Act would support state efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in congregate settings, […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink
Restaurants can reopen for outdoor dining beginning May 18th
During her COVID-19 press briefing today, Governor Raimondo announced that restaurants will be allowed to reopen for on-premise outdoor dining beginning Monday, May 18. Starting Monday, May 18th, restaurants will be able to begin limited outdoor dining in addition to their take-out, delivery, and drive-through operations. Restaurants will be required to operate under the following […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 11: Daily Press Briefing & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health will hold their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 1 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live here, and provide updates, as it happens. Press Briefing Updates From Press Briefing Gov: says its been a smooth start after the stay-at-home order was lifted Saturday. Weekend weather may […]
Posted inBusiness, News
Portsmouth Press receives $25,000 grant through the Facebook Journalism Project’s relief fund for local news
Last Thursday, Facebook announced that more than 200 news organizations eill receive nearly $16 million in grants that stem from $25 million in local news relief funding announced in March as part of Facebook’s $100 million global investment in local news. After receiving more than 2,000 applications for the COVID-19 Local News Relief Grant Program from newsrooms […]
Posted inBusiness
People’s Credit Union donates $20,000 to help support area food pantries
In response to the overwhelming demand for food assistance caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, People’s Credit Union today announced that they will provide $20,000 in financial support to area food pantries. “As a local credit union, we believe it’s our responsibility to support the communities that we serve in this unprecedented time,” said Sean Daly, […]
Posted inColumns
Brian C. Jones: A visitor appears in our backyard, is it a sign about COVID-19?
THE DOG notices it first. Perched atop a tall fence that separates our backyard from a neighbor’s, the creature is stuffed-toy charming – with a white face, pink nose, black ears and pinpoint eyes. But it’s also shockingly repulsive, with a long, filthy tail that suggests a new breed of super rat that’s escaped from […]
Posted inBusiness
East Providence Jeweler recognizes Miriam Hospital critical care nurses, while supporting children in need
MRT Jewelers, 927 Warren Ave., East Providence this week will show its appreciation for critical care and Intensive Care nurses at the Miriam Hospital by presenting each with a silver bracelet engraved with a very special message from Psalm 91: “No harm shall overcome you.” “My hope is that these bracelets will serve as a […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 9: Daily Press Briefing, conference call, & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health will hold their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 1 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live here, and provide updates, as it happens. Updates from the press briefing Gov: No press briefing tomorrow, but Gov. and DOH will be sharing a special Mother’s Day video on […]
Posted inBusiness
Newport Stop & Shop employees test positive for COVID-19, two stores undergo deep cleaning
An employee at each Stop & Shop location in Newport has tested positive for COVID-19, What’s Up Newp has confirmed. Following up on a news tip regarding positive cases at local Stop & Shop’s, What’s Up Newp was able to confirm the cases through a company spokesperson on Saturday. “Stop & Shop can confirm that […]
Posted inBusiness, City & Government, Food & Drink
Along with packaged beer and wine, restaurants can now sell draft beer and mixed drinks with take-out food orders
As part of her twenty-ninth declaration order that was signed on Friday, Govermor Raimondo outlined and updated certain restrictions on businesses and reopening.’ A portion of the declaration focuses on “Further Relief for Restaurants” and will now allow restaurants to sell, with take-out food orders, wine, packaged beer, draft beer, and mixed drinks. After closing […]
Posted inBusiness
Not all Westerly businesses will survive COVID-19
There was a time, not too many years ago, when Westerly’s High Street, its main street, was littered with empty store fronts and vacant second floor offices, by broken streetlights, and an image of a timeworn town. But in recent years, before the coronavirus pandemic shut everything, the community had come alive. There are few […]
Posted inOpinion
Guest View – Senator Metts: What the pandemic has shown us, and where we go from here
We face unprecedented challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which also revealed the alarming disparities faced by our most vulnerable populations. The old adage remains true: “When the economy gets a cold, the Black and Brown community gets pneumonia.” It’s time we examine and correct the unjust socioeconomic, structural and systemic factors that are at […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Podcast: A convo with a spokesperson from Rhode Island Chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous
For the alcoholic these often lonely times, as we are forced from our friends, family, and work by this awful pandemic, can be devastating. A lifeline for many alcoholics over the years has been Alcoholics Anonymous, challenged in these times because in-person meetings are prohibited, but creative in developing hundreds of zoom and telephonic meetings. […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Middletown will open parking lots for some town parks on Saturday
The Town of Middletown today announced that on Saturday, May 9 they will open the parking lots of the following parks which had been closed due to the he COVID-19 public health crisis. According to the town, the following parking areas are open to the public: ● Albro Woods ● Demery Park ● Middletown Public […]
Posted inCity & Government
DEM issued COVID-19 safety guidelines as State Parks being to open on Saturday
The following was written by Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. Getting outdoors and enjoying the beauty of nature are great ways to relieve stress and important to public health. The Department of Environmental Management’s Division of Parks and Recreation recognizes the value of spending time in nature. We are committed to ensuring park visitors and […]
Posted inNews
Biking in the Time of Coronavirus: A statewide surve of people on bicycles
The following was submitted by Bar Freeman, representing Paths to Progress Coalition. Survey location: www.surveymonkey.com/r/BikingRI_coronavirus Are you seeing more people on bikes recently? Are you yourself riding more? The member organizations of ‘Paths to Progress’, Rhode Island’s statewide coalition for recreational and transportation paths are interested in your reasons for riding these days. Your input […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
What needs to go right to get a coronavirus vaccine in 12-18 months
Marcos E. García-Ojeda, University of California, Merced I, like many Americans, miss the pre-pandemic world of hugging family and friends, going to work and having dinner at a restaurant. A protective vaccine for SARS-Cov2 is likely to be the most effective public health tool to get back to that world. Anthony Fauci, director of the […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Governor Raimondo’s Stay At Home Order lifts on Saturday, here’s what you need to know
Governor Gina M. Raimondo yesterday announced that Rhode Island’s stay-at-home order will lift this Saturday, May 9th. Raimondo announced Phase 1 will begin with the following restrictions: Non-critical retail stores will reopen with capacity limits.Elective medical procedures resume under safety guidelines.Everyone who can work from home, should work from home. Offices will be permitted to […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 8: Daily Press Briefing, conference call, & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health held their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 1 pm. Scroll down for updates from the press briefing. The Latest Data May 8th: 249 new positive cases (total positive cases now 10,779), 11 new fatalities (total now 399), 312 are currently hospitalized, 71 are currently in ICU, 52 […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Governor signs Executive Order requiring cloth face coverings in public, effective Friday
Governor Raimondo is tightening the requirements around wearing a face mask in public. What’s Up Newp asked during Monday’s press briefing, “There’s a lot of confusion on when wearing a cloth mask is required and when it’s not. Have you considered simplifying the message for understanding and enforcement, for example – requiring everyone to wear […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Recap: Newport City Council receives weekly COVID-19 update from City Manager
The Newport City Council received their weekly COVID-19 crisis update from City Manager Joe Nicholson on Thursday, May 7th. What’s Up Newp is bringing you this live broadcast. If you prefer to listen in to the official call and/or participate, call 877-853-5247 Meeting ID: 360-610-170 Recap: Nicholson: Reviewed latest data and updates from the Governor. […]
Posted inCity & Government
Local Leaders: RI State budget must safeguard vital services, protect property taxpayers
The following was written/submitted by Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns The Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns announced the priorities of local communities for the State’s FY2021 budget. Municipal leaders have been closely following the General Assembly’s revenue estimating conference, which will conclude later this week. Municipalities are on the front lines […]
Posted inBusiness, News
North Kingstown resident launches RI Sunshine to help Wicked Tulips and honor late mother
When North Kingstown resident Elizabeth Almeida heard that Wicked Tulips Farm Flower Farm wasn’t able to host their popular U-Pick events this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she knew she had to help out the place that holds special meaning to her and her late mother. A few days before Mother’s Day, she launched […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink
WUN-ON-ONE: A conversation with Rhode Island Hospitality’s Dale Venturini and Heather Singleton
On this edition of WUN-ON-ONE, Rhode Island’s Hospitality Association’s Dale Venturini, President/CEO, and Heather Singleton, Chief Operating Officer, join me to chat about COVID-19 and it’s impact on the restaurant and hotel industry. We also chat about what hotels and restaurants are doing to keep their employees and patrons safe. RIHA represents over 700 foodservice, […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 7: Daily Press Briefing, conference call, & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Department of Health will hold their daily COVID-19 press briefing today at 1 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live here, and provide updates, as it happens. Latest Data May 7th: 325 new positive cases (total now 10,530), 18 new associated fatalities (total now 388), 318 currently hospitalized, 82 currently […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink, News
Amid crisis, community’s outpouring of support invigorates Newport Hospital
During the unprecedented health crisis that has turned our state, the country and world on its end, dozens of Aquidneck Island businesses, individuals and community groups have rallied around Newport Hospital, making significant in-kind donations to frontline workers and staff. Newport Hospital released a press release today regarding the dozens of local businesses, community groups […]
Posted inNews
2020 Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week postponed
Audrain Concours Foundation today announced that they have postponed their 2nd Annual Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week. “After a careful review of Governor Raimondo’s Reopen RI phased approach and in the best interest of our visitor guests, concours participants, judges, staff, volunteers, partner sponsors and the general public, we have come to the decision […]
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
COVID-19 in Rhode Island – May 6: Daily Press Briefing, conference call, & updates
Governor Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department of Health hosted their daily coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) press briefing today at 2:30 pm. The Latest Local Data May 6th: RIDOH reports there are 272 new positive cases (total now 10,205), 15 new associated fatalities (total now 370), 324 currently hospitalized, 86 currently in ICU, and 60 […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 testing site opening in Newport
The City of Newport today announced East Bay Family Health Services, a division of East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP), will be opening COVID19 testing by appointment only to its patients and to the general public starting on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at its Newport location. Dr. Sarah Fessler, Chief Medical Director, has been […]
Posted inNews
Mother’s Day gift and celebration ideas that support local businesses
In these trying times, many moms could use some extra special appreciation this Mother’s Day, Sunday May 10th. Luckily our innovative local restaurants, florists, and gift shops have come up with some creative ways you can appreciate mom while supporting local business and keeping everyone safe at the same time. Here’s a breakdown of ideas […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Business
Everyday ethics: When should we lift the lockdown?
Lee McIntyre, Boston University A lot of people are facing ethical decisions about their daily life as a result of the coronavirus. Ethicist Lee McIntyre has stepped in to help provide advice over the moral dilemmas we face. If you have a question you’d like a philosopher to answer, send it to us at us-ethicalquestions@theconversation.com. […]
Posted inNews
What’s Up Newp joins #GivingNewsday in wake of COVID-19 for a Global Day of giving and unity with #GivingTuesdayNow
What’s Up Newp is joining #GivingTuesdayNow to bring awareness to the impact of quality locally owned, independent journalism and to receive the support from the public. Local independent newsrooms are playing a vital role in helping communities be safe during the ongoing pandemic, yet have never been more imperiled economically. What’s Up Newp remains in […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Governor Raimondo provides more details on Phase 1 of the state’s plan to reopen the economy
Governor Gina M. Raimondo today provided more details on Phase 1 of the state’s plan to reopen the economy. Retail: Non-critical retail stores that have been closed will be allowed to reopen in-person operations, including for limited in-person browsing. Pre-ordering and in-store pick-up will still be encouraged as the safest option. Retailers will be able to have […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Newport County Virtual Tip Jar: Help support service industry workers
Over the last week or so, many of us would regularly be patronizing bars, salons, restaurants, and other businesses that have been ordered closed. What’s Up Newp has been asked several times this week by service industry staff, neighbors, regular customers, and people who give a damn to set something up so that way they […]
Posted inNews
DEM asking boaters to follow COVID-19 social distancing rules, other safety guidelines
As the early boating season gears up, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today released a press release asking boaters to follow COVID-19 social distancing rules and other safety guidelines as they work on their boats at marinas and boatyards and while they’re on the water. DEM says paying strict adherence to social […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 Daily Press Briefing & Update – May 4: 175 new positive cases, 21 new fatalities
Governor Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department of Health will host their daily coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) press briefing today at 3 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live, and provide updates, as it happens below. Updates from Press Briefing Gov: Says she thinks the numbers we are seeing is a good “news story”. […]
Posted inNews
COVID-19 Daily Press Briefing & Update: May 3
Governor Raimondo and Dr McDonald from the Rhode Island Department of Health held their daily coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) press briefing today at 1 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live, and provide updates, as it happens below. Press Briefing Updates from Press Briefing Gov: Press Briefing will take place at 3 pm tomorrow, […]
Posted inColumns
Iain Guest: A community teacher chafes at distance learning, pines for her students
I first met Lisa Olaynack, an English teacher at the Thompson Middle School in Newport in 2016, when she invited me to her class for a discussion about girls’ education in Kenya. At the time my nonprofit was supporting the Kakenya Centre for Excellence, a pioneering boarding school for girls in western Kenya that will […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 Daily Press Briefing & Update: May 2
Governor Raimondo and Dr. Alexander-Scott held their daily coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) press briefing today at 1 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live, and provide updates, as it happens below. Video of Press Briefing Updates from Press Briefing Gov: Upcoming press briefing will be at 1 pm, with the exception of Monday when […]
Posted inSports
New England Collegiate Baseball League cancels 2020 Season
The New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL) announced last last night that its board of directors, comprised of executives from its 13 member teams and officers, have voted to cancel the 2020 summer collegiate baseball season. “This decision was reached after a careful and thoughtful review of the guidance from federal, state and local officials, […]
Posted inNews
Calm, cool and collected during COVID-19
Story by Sgt. Terry Rajsombath, Joint Force Headquarters, Rhode Island National Guard “I think that’s what’s really made me the medic I am today,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Blake Costa, medical section noncommissioned officer in charge (NCOIC), for the 1-103rd Field Artillery. “Just the exposure to nonstop trauma.” In the midst of COVID-19, Costa serves as […]
Posted inPeople & Profiles
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 […]
Posted inNews, Sports
Newport Polo hopes governor accepts its proposal that would change the experience for spectators and players
Polo is hoping that a proposal it gave to Governor Raimondo a few days ago will allow the popular event to hold its summer series – but if it does, it will look a lot different than in past years. According to Agnes Keating, wife of Dan Keating, president of the polo association, Newport Polo […]
Posted inArts & Culture, News, Things To Do
newportFILM forced to cancel 2020 Outdoors season
newportFILM is the latest organization that has been forced to change their plans for the upcoming spring and summer season. In an email signed by Becca Bertrand, Executive Director and Andrea van Beuren, Co-Founder and Artistic Director, newportFILM announced, “We are heartbroken to have to announce the cancellation of the 2020 newportFILM Outdoors season. Following […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 Daily Update – May 1: Daily press briefing & update
Governor Raimondo and Dr. Alexander-Scott will hold their daily coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) press briefing today at 1 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live, and provide updates, as it happens below. Press Briefing – Video Press Briefing – Updates Gov: Cases are still not in a decline, but “we’ll take the plateau”. Gov: […]
Posted inNews, Sports
Tennis Hall Of Fame: Regular execution of the Hall of Fame Open and Induction Ceremony in July will not be possible
In light of Governor Gina Raimondo’s announcement this week regarding large events in Rhode Island this summer, the International Tennis Hall Of Fame (ITHOF) shared with fans and ticket holders on Thursday that “a regular execution of the Hall of Fame Open and Induction Ceremony in July will not be possible”. In the letter to […]
Posted inNews
Wickford Art Festival and Charlestown Seafood Festival fall victim to COVID-19
Two more of Rhode Island’s iconic summer events – the Charlestown Seafood Festival and Wickford Art Festival — canceled yesterday (Thursday), the latest victims of COVID-19. Heather Paliotta, executive director of the Charlestown Chamber of Commerce, announced that the 36th annual Seafood Festival, scheduled for August 7-9, was being canceled in the aftermath of Governor […]
Posted inArts & Culture, News
“Quaranstreaming”: 22 films with Rhode Island ties
With this week’s cancellation announcements of many of our favorite cultural events in Rhode Island this summer, the reality hit hard that we’re going to have to keep entertaining ourselves at home for awhile longer. To give you some fresh movie ideas and celebrate our home state, we put together this list of 22 films […]
Posted inThings To Do
Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial won’t take place at Fort Adams this year
Operation Stand Down Rhode Island today announced that it is canceling this year’s Boots On The Ground For Heores Memorial and Gold Star Gala due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both events were scheduled to take place at Fort Adams State Park this Memorial Day Weekend (May 22 – 25). “Operation Stand Down has been closely […]
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MLK Center helps thousands during the pandemic, expecting need to rise through the fall
For Heather Strout, executive director of the Dr. Martin Luther King Community Center in Newport, it’s the stories from people lining up for the center’s food pantry that are heartbreaking, people “who have never had to come to a food pantry before.” Over these last six weeks as they have seen their jobs disappear to […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 Daily Update – April 30: Governor Raimondo hosts student press conference
Governor Raimondo held a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) “Student Press Conference”, with a live Q&A session for Pre-K to 12th grade students, on Thursday. The Latest Local Data April 30: 8,621 positive cases, 339 currently hospitalized (85 in ICU, 54 on ventilator), 266 total associated fatalities. More from the Governor, DOH today; The Rhode Island […]
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Governor Raimondo, Congressional Delegation, and state leaders host Violence Prevention Town Hall
Governor Raimondo, Rhode Island Congressional Delegation and advocates hosted a Violence Prevention Town Hall on Thursday morning to discuss how all Rhode Islanders can prevent domestic violence.
Posted inArts & Culture, News
How Apple and Google will let your phone warn you if you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus
Johannes Becker, Boston University and David Starobinski, Boston University On April 10, Apple and Google announced a coronavirus exposure notification system that will be built into their smartphone operating systems, iOS and Android. The system uses the ubiquitous Bluetooth short-range wireless communication technology. There are dozens of apps being developed around the world that alert […]
Posted inBusiness, News
Middletown now accepting micro-enterprise grant applications from small businesses
The Town of Middletown today announced that it is participating in the Microenterprise (MicroE) Stabilization Grant Program offered through the state’s Office of Housing and Community Development for small businesses impacted by COVID-19 pandemic. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available to offer grants of $5,000 to qualifying small businesses located in Middletown, according […]
Posted inBusiness, Food & Drink, News
New temporary license will allow commercial fisherman to sell certain types of seafood directly to consumers, retailers
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced that it has enacted a new, no-cost Direct Sale Dealer License. DEM says that this action will “help foster the continued viability of the Rhode Island commercial seafood industry during the COVID-19 public health crisis”. According to DEM, this authorizes commercial fishermen in Rhode Island to […]
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Governor: Highly unlikely that groups of more than 50 people will be able to gather at any point this summer
While public health guidance around the exact number of people allowed to gather will change in the coming months, Governor Raimondo today during her press briefing made it clear that it is highly unlikely that groups of more than 50 people will be able to gather at any point this summer. She recommended that anyone […]
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Governor, Congressional Delegation highlight uses for coronavirus relief funding
Governor Raimondo was joined on a conference call at 11:30 am this morning by U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Jim Langevin and David Cicilline as they discussed ways the state can utilize federal stimulus dollars. Here’s what the Governor’s office shared after the call regarding the call and relief funding; Since […]
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2020 Newport Folk Festival, Newport Jazz Festival cancelled amid COVID-19 concerns
Two more events have fallen victim to COVID-19 – the 2020 Newport Folk Festival and 2020 Newport Jazz Festival. Governor Raimondo made the news official during her daily press briefing this afternoon when she announced that she doesn’t see it possible in any way to hold large events this summer. The Governor said in her […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 Daily Update – April 29: 8,247 positive cases, 269 currently hospitalized
Governor Gina M. Raimondo and Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), provided updates about Rhode Island’s coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response today at 2:30 pm. What’s Up Newp will carry it live then, and provide updates, below as it happens. Press Briefing Updates From Press Briefing Gov: […]
Posted inArts & Culture, Things To Do
Newport Music Festival not proceeding as planned, working on a “floating season”
The Newport Music Festival, where some of the world’s most accomplished classical musicians and new and exciting talent perform in the houses of Newport, has fallen victim this summer to the coronavirus. In a letter on the Music Festival’s website, posted today, Suzanna Laramee, president and chief executive officer announced the 52-year-old festival was cancelling […]
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Hazard pay for developmental disability workers on its way
Private employers of congregate care workers – including those in group homes for adults with developmental disabilities – began applying April 28 for COVID-19 hazard pay that could be in the paychecks of their employees as early as next week. Over the weekend, Governor Gina Raimondo announced the Congregate Care Workforce Stabilization Fund to temporarily […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Newport City Council receives weekly COVID-19 update from City Manager
Members of Newport City Council received their weekly COVID-19 update from Newport City Manager Joe Nicholson today at 4:30 pm. The update was via Zoom and the call was open to the public to listen in. No public comment was welcome during the call. Updates from the City Manager Nicholson: Reviewed latest statewide data.Nicholson: Delayed […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
COVID-19 Daily Update – April 28: 218 new cases, 6 new fatalities; Press briefing updates
Governor Gina M. Raimondo and Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), provided updates about Rhode Island’s coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response today at 1 pm. Press Briefing Updates From Press Briefing Gov: Says it’s vital to obey the stay at home order, she wants to be able […]
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Rhode Island offers 3rd most coronavirus support in country, study says
With 89 percent of adults hospitalized with COVID-19 having some sort of pre-existing condition, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on the States Offering the Most Coronavirus Support. The report seeks to examine how states care for people who are at risk both health-wise and financially. To identify which states offer the most support […]
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Reopening RI: Governor rolls out strategy to reopen the economy in a phased approach
At her daily press briefing today, Governor Gina Raimondo rolled out her strategy to reopen Rhode Island’s economy in a phased approach. Raimondo announced a three-phase plan for gradually loosening restrictions, assuming the state continue to make progress in flatting the curve. Reopening Timeline This timeline covers several weeks and goes well into June. To move […]
Posted inCity & Government
COVID-19 Daily Update – April 27: 269 new positive cases, 7 new fatalities; Plans to reopen Rhode Island
Governor Gina M. Raimondo and Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), provided updates to reporters about Rhode Island’s coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response today at 1 pm. The Latest Data April 27: 7,708 positive cases, 266 currently hospitalized (81 in ICU, 56 on ventilator), 233 new fatalities. […]