Good Morning. It’s Tuesday, October 15, and today, we’re covering the race for Newport City Council and Newport School Committee, leaf-watching season, and serving up a delicious fall recipe. 👋 First time reading this newsletter? Welcome! Join more than 17,000 who wake up to us daily. Sign up here. 📢 Keep in touch. I’d love to hear […]
Newport County
Posted inFood & Drink
What’s in Season: Cucumber Hill Farm’s sugar pumpkins are no trick and all treat this Halloween
Aquidneck Islanders know how to have a good time in October, celebrating autumn and Halloween. The Norman Bird Sanctuary hosts their Harvest Fair, Escobar’s Farm corn maze opens for the season, and Quonset View Farm pivots from their PYO summertime strawberries to PYO jack-o’-lanterns in their extensive pumpkin patch. These fall festivities are iconic for […]
Posted inSports
Maye day could turn into Maye’s year as Patriots rookie shows promise in first NFL start
The New England Patriots might just have reason for optimism again. Five years after Tom Brady played his last game in a Patriots uniform and three seasons after rookie Mac Jones led them to their only playoff appearance since Brady left, Drake Maye awakened the New England offense against the Houston Texans. It wasn’t nearly […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Mary Greeley
Mary Louise (Ide) Greeley, PhD, 80, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away at Newport Hospital on October 10, 2024. Mary Louise was born in North Dighton, Massachusetts to the late Warren Monroe Ide and Mary Elizabeth Barry, both of Taunton. She was the wife of the late John J. Greeley Sr, S.T.D. After Mary Louise […]
Posted inSports
Reinhart and Lundell each score twice and Panthers beat Bruins 4-3
BOSTON (AP) — Sam Reinhart scored on a power play and added a short-handed goal that gave the Florida Panthers the lead for good in the second period on Monday and the defending Stanley Cup champions beat the Boston Bruins 4-3. Anton Lundell also scored twice and Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 25 shots for Florida, which […]
Posted inNews
Election Guide: Newport voters to choose from slate of candidates for City Council, School Committee
Newport residents are gearing up for a significant election. The November 5 general election will determine all seats on the city council and school committee. The ballot also includes a crucial infrastructure bond question that could shape the city’s future. What’sUpNewp has recently conducted one-on-one conversations with most candidates to help inform voters. On August […]
Posted inElection
Early voting for Nov. 5 General Election begins Oct. 16
Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore and the RI Department of State Elections Division remind eligible voters that early voting begins Wednesday, October 16, 2024, and continues until 4 p.m. on November 4. Eligible voters can find their early voting location online at vote.ri.gov or by contacting their local board of canvassers. The deadline to request a mail […]
Posted inNews
Daily Digest: Monday, October 14
Good Morning. It’s Monday, October 14, Indigenous Peoples’ Day/Columbus Day. Today, we’re covering the Italian Heritage Parade, Broadway Street Fair, all that’s ahead this week, and more. 👋 First time reading this newsletter? Welcome! Join more than 17,000 who wake up to us daily. Sign up here. 📢 Keep in touch. I’d love to hear from you with […]
Posted inElection, Opinion
Letter To The Editor: Some Councilors prioritize tourism growth over residents
I am a full-time Newport resident with great concern for our housing crisis. I want to applaud the effort to curb the growth of new short-term rentals by Councilor Mark Aramli, as these units continue to consume our residential housing. Short term rentals are now poised to gobble up the buildings of our small shops […]
Posted inElection, Opinion
Letter To The Editor: Endorsement for Dennis Turano, Middletown Town Council
Dennis Turano is a long-life Middletown, Rhode Islander who proudly serves as a Middletown Council person. Dennis’ personal business expertise and success, leadership, and his fiscal stewardship provide him with the tools needed to represent our community. Serving 8 years as a public servant for Middletown he has been instrumental in the after-school program initiative […]
Posted inColumns
Just My Opinion: ‘Hear it in the wind’
Recently spent a few days in the Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant, about 90 minutes west of Montreal. I was there for my niece’s wedding, set in a wooded and mountainous area in Quebec Province. We stayed at a chalet, near the main house, a mile into the woods. We drove up to our chalet greeted by […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Community comes together for 7th Annual Broadway Street Fair
The Broadway Street Fair enjoyed beautiful weather for its 7th Anniversary, and the crowds came out in great numbers to enjoy the entertainment, local food vendors, and artisans. The roadway was blocked from Equality Park down to Washington Square as in years previous and every square inch on both sides of Broadway hosted a local […]
Posted inSports
Portsmouth triumphs in homecoming game, improves to 3-2
Portsmouth High School’s football team clinched a 30-22 win against West Warwick during their homecoming game on Saturday. The victory at home bumps their season record to 3-2. The team’s next matchup is set for Oct. 18 at 7 p.m., when they’ll face Cumberland High School on their home field. Looking ahead, Portsmouth has away […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Daniel Windley
Daniel C. Windley, Jr. 78, of Newport, Rhode Island, died on October 11, 2024. Born in El Cajon, CA on February 3, 1946, He was the son of Daniel and Alice (Sands) Windley. Growing up in Newport, Daniel enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and exploring the coastline. He began his working career in landscaping, but soon […]
Posted inSports
Pastrnak scores in overtime as the Bruins beat the Kings 2-1
BOSTON (AP) — David Pastrnak scored 3:07 into overtime, and the Boston Bruins beat the Los Angeles Kings 2-1 on Saturday. It was Pastrnak’s third goal in Boston’s first three games. He had 47 goals in 82 games for the Bruins last season. Elias Lindholm also scored for Boston, and Jeremy Swayman had 33 saves. […]
Posted inNews
How gas prices have changed in Rhode Island in the last week
The average cost for a gallon of gasoline in the U.S. remains at levels comparable to 2021 before inflation took off, though it has risen slightly as Floridians begin recovering from Hurricane Milton. The storm that hit land as a Category 3 hurricane caused runs on gas stations, depleting gas for many and complicating evacuation […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Australian Ambassador Rudd to discuss US-Australia relations at Salve Regina
Australian Ambassador to the U.S. Kevin Rudd is set to join Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed for a public conversation about strategic challenges facing their two democracies. The event will take place at Salve Regina University on Oct. 15. The Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy is hosting the discussion, which will center […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Kevin Powers
Kevin Joseph Powers, 69, of Peacedale, Rhode Island, died on October 9, 2024. He was the husband of the late Irene (Pizzuto) Powers. Born in Roxbury, MA on November 7, 1954, He was the son of the late James and Loretta (Steward) Powers. Kevin grew up in Stoughton, MA and excelled as an athlete in […]
Posted inNews
Sandpipers to celebrate new outdoor play area
Sandpipers at Child & Family Services will celebrate the grand opening of its new outdoor play area on October 21st at 4:45 pm. The upgraded space, made possible by funding from the van Beuren Charitable Foundation and Sandpipers parents, features new equipment and amenities for children of all ages. The renovations include a brand-new canopy […]
Posted inReal Estate
On the Market: Explore 21 open houses in Newport County this weekend (Oct. 12 – 14)
Welcome to this week’s edition of “On the Market,” where we highlight the latest real estate opportunities featuring public showings across Newport County. Open houses offer an excellent opportunity to explore the market, particularly during a holiday weekend when you may have more time to search for your dream home. In today’s competitive landscape, where […]
Posted inCity & Government
RIDOT: Temporary Road Closures scheduled in Tiverton and Portsmouth Oct. 12 – 18
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation has issued the following travel advisories for the week of October 12-18, 2024. Newport County Newport Pell Bridge Approaches – Phase II Newport: Mobile operations sitewide will occur with minimal impact to travel to wrap up outstanding electrical and signage installation tasks. Learn more about the project Temporary Road Closures […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island Department of Health expands meat recall over listeria concerns
The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is expanding its recall of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential Listeria contamination. This expansion is part of a larger recall issued by BrucePac, which affects nearly 10 million pounds of products nationwide. The recalled items were produced between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024, […]
Posted inElection, News
Newport City Council candidate Lynn Underwood Ceglie seeks return to Second Ward
Lynn Underwood Ceglie, currently serving as an at-large Newport city councilor, is running to represent the Second Ward in the upcoming election. Ceglie, who previously held the Second Ward seat, cites a desire to focus more on constituent issues as her motivation for the switch. “I was really a lot happier when I was a […]
Posted inNews
Washington Bridge demolition to resume
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation announced today it will resume temporary road closures in Providence and East Providence on Tuesday, October 15, as crews resume demolishing the old Washington Bridge. Starting Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 7 p.m., a section of Waterfront Drive in East Providence will be closed at the I-195 overpass for about […]
Posted inNews
Daily Digest: Friday, October 11
Good Morning. It’s Friday, October 11, and today, we’re covering a Newport City Council workshop on the Resident Parking Program, all that’s happening this weekend, our final conversation with the candidates, and more. 👋 First time reading this newsletter? Welcome! Join more than 17,000 who wake up to us daily. Sign up here. 📢 Keep in touch. […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Edward Soares
Edward Soares, age 59, died at his home in North Kingstown, RI on September 24, 2024. Ed was from Newport, and he was born there on June 8, 1965. He was the son of the late Manuel Soares and the late Joan Wittstruck. Ed’s brother Manuel Soares died in infancy. He is survived by his […]
Posted inNews
Tiverton Library to host Medicare enrollment presentation
A free presentation on navigating Medicare enrollment will be held at the Tiverton Public Library on Thursday, Oct. 24 at 1 p.m. Christopher Ireland, a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) Counselor at Child & Family of RI, will lead the session titled “Medicare Enrollment 101.” The program will take place at the library, located […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Rae Varner
Rae B. Varner passed away peacefully on September 16, 2024, at the Hope Health Hospice in Providence, RI., with her husband, Marcus, of 40 years at her side. She lived one year in Bristol, RI and the past 39 years in Middletown, RI. Frances Rae Blickenstaff was born March 21,1946 in Susanville, CA. In her […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council explores overhaul of Resident Parking Program
Newport City Council held a special workshop on Monday, October 7 to discuss potential changes to the city’s Resident Parking Program and review the role of the Interdepartmental Traffic Committee. The meeting, which took place at Innovate Newport, focused on addressing concerns about abuse of the current system and ensuring parking availability for year-round residents. […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport Community Electricity announces winter rates
The City of Newport announced via a press release today that Newport Community Electricity has announced its winter rates. “The Newport Community Electricity program is announcing new Winter electricity supply prices to go into effect beginning with the November 2024 meter read. Prices will still remain lower than the utility’s Residential Last Resort Service rate […]
Posted inSports
Velocitek and New York Yacht Club pursue the end of the general recall
By New York Yacht Club With the goal of removing one of sailing’s most time-consuming and frustrating conundrums—the general recall—the New York Yacht Club partnered with leading sailing electronics producer Velocitek to create the first centimeter-accurate starting-line management system designed for use with large fleets of 20 or more boats. The system was used at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Movies and TV shows casting in Rhode Island
The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities’ Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of […]
Posted inElection
Xay Khamsyvoravong seeks re-election to Newport City Council At-Large; highlights progress on city challenges
Newport City Council Chair and Mayor Xaykham “Xay” Rexford Khamsyvoravong is seeking re-election to Newport City Council At-Large, emphasizing the need for continued action on pressing issues facing the city. In an interview with What’sUpNewp on Thursday, October 19, Khamsyvoravong highlighted the council’s accomplishments over the past 22 months and outlined his priorities for another […]
Posted inElection
Letter To The Editor: Endorsement for Robert Leary, Newport School Committee
I am writing to endorse Robert “Bobby” Leary for School Committee. Bobby Leary has an indefatigable passion for serving children and families in his capacity as a School Board member. Bobby does not hesitate to ask the tough questions as his primary motivation is doing the right thing. Bobby has integrity, is transparent and asks […]
Posted inNews
Where refugees in Rhode Island are arriving from
During the past five decades, the U.S. has resettled over 3 million refugees, making it one of the leading countries for finding new homes for people fleeing violence, persecution, and war. In 2021, then-President Donald Trump lowered the annual cap of refugees that could be admitted into the country to 15,000. Even as the Biden […]
Posted inElection, News
Charlie Holder seeks At-Large seat on Newport City Council
Charlie Holder, currently serving as Newport’s second ward councilor, is running for an at-large seat on the City Council in the upcoming election. In an interview with Whats’UpNewp on Thursday, October 10, Holder discussed his campaign strategy, key city issues, and his approach to governance. Holder, who will turn 55 the day after the election, […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island gets $1.6 million for Small Biz Technical Assistance
U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo announced Thursday that Rhode Island Commerce has been awarded a $1.6 million grant to support small businesses in the construction, transportation, and renewable energy industries through the RI Rebounds Technical Assistance Program. The grant, provided through the State Small Business Credit […]
Posted inElection
Newport School Committee candidate James Dring touts ‘common sense’ approach to decision-making
James Dring, seeking his third term on the Newport School Committee, is positioning himself as a voice of reason and fiscal responsibility as the district faces declining enrollment and budget constraints. In an interview with What’sUpNewp on Thursday, October 10, Dring highlighted his support for school regionalization with Middletown, a stance he says sets him […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jamestown Arts Center to host Autumn Arts Open House on Oct. 20
Celebrate Fall with the Jamestown Arts Center during the annual Autumn Arts Open House on Sunday, October 20, from 1 to 4 p.m. Participate in make-and-take art activities for all ages, check out artist demonstrations in the studios, enjoy seasonal refreshments, and more. “This free, all ages event is a great way to explore the JAC […]
Posted inElection
Letter to the Editor: Endorsement for Beth Cullen, Newport School Committee
Dear Newport Voters, I am writing to offer my enthusiastic endorsement for Elizabeth “Beth” Cullen as a candidate for the Newport School Committee. I had the pleasure of working closely with Beth on a zoning issue that threatened one of Newport’s historic neighborhoods. Together, we successfully opposed the construction of an oversized wedding facility and […]
Posted inNews
Daily Digest: Thursday, October 10
Good Morning. It’s Thursday, October 10, and today, we’re covering Newport’s new mobile noise enforcement trailer, scheduled road closures and detours, Newport School Committee’s meeting, and more. 🙏 Our Fall Supporter Drive is underway! This month, we’re looking for 100 readers to become Supporters. Supporters make it possible for our 18 contributors to continue reporting on all that’s […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island Airport Corporation to host virtual ‘town hall meeting’ on state airports
The Rhode Island Airport Corporation will host a virtual information session on Wednesday, Oct. 23, at noon for local officials and the public to discuss updates on projects at the state’s general aviation airports. The session will be held via Zoom, with a link available on the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s website and at […]
Posted inCity & Government
Opinion – Newport City Councilor Mark Aramli: Why I’m proud and optimistic about Council’s choice for City Manager, Colin Kennedy
Newport is a truly unique and amazing place, with all the ingredients needed to be a world class livable city for our residents. Yet today we are saddled with a derelict blighted casino at the city’s entrance, gutted housing stock that is pushing middle class renters out of the city, neighborhoods that are flooding, an […]
Posted inNews
Middletown Town Council appoints Interim Fire Chief, considers short-term rental ordinance amendments
At their meeting on Monday night, the Middletown Town Council named Robert McCall as interim fire chief. McCall, who has previously served in the role, will step in as Chief James Peplau prepares to depart. The council also held a moment of silence for retired Middletown Police Detective Corporal David Eddes. Council President Paul Rodrigues […]
Posted inArts & Culture
St. Mary’s Church to host 2nd Annual “Blessing of the Animals” event
Pet owners, get ready! St. Mary’s Church is hosting its second yearly “Blessing of the Animals” on Oct. 13. The church is inviting everyone in the community to bring their furry, feathered, or scaly friends for a special blessing. The outdoor ceremony kicks off at 12:30 p.m. in the church’s courtyard on William Street. This […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Arnya Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner’s championship kits on display at the International Tennis Hall of Fame
Autographed Nike apparel from both champions from the US Open sit alongside the apparel worn by Sabalenka and Sinner during their title runs at the Australian Open at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. For the first time since 1988, when Hall of Famers Mats Wilander and Steffi Graf prevailed, the men’s and women’s singles champions […]
Posted inMusic & Entertainment
Newport Classical will present concerts by Baritone Markel Reed and Cellist Seth Parker Woods in November
Newport Classical continues its fourth full-season Chamber Series, featuring twelve concerts held on select Fridays at 7:30 pm at the organization’s home venue Newport Classical Recital Hall, with two performances in November. On Friday, November 1, 2024, at 7:30 pm, baritone Markel Reed, known for his appearances at The Metropolitan Opera, performs the music of Brahms, Margaret Bonds, Terence Blanchard, and […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport School Committee Meeting covers wide range of topics
The Newport School Committee held a meeting on Tuesday, October 8, lasting over two hours and covering a variety of topics. The meeting began with a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for recently deceased community members. Student Council representative Saraya Bell, a Rogers High School senior, presented […]
Posted inNews
Ask The City Manager: Colin Kennedy joins What’sUpNewp to discuss the bond question and more on Oct. 16
Newport City Manager Colin Kennedy will spend thirty minutes with What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, October 16, at 10 am, answering our and your questions about what’s happening in the City. October 16 is the first day of early voting for the upcoming General Election, and I plan on asking the City Manager questions and diving deeper […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Lynn Underwood Ceglie, candidate for Newport City Council Second Ward
Lynn Underwood Ceglie, a Newport City Council Second Ward candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 10 am on Friday, November 11, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Ceglie, currently serving as Vice Chair on Newport City Council, will answer our and your questions about her candidacy, platforms, and important issues to […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Xaykham “Xay” Rexford Khamsyvoravong, candidate for Newport City Council At-Large
Xaykham “Xay” Rexford Khamsyvoravong, a Newport City Council At-Large candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 12:30 pm on Thursday, October 10, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Xay, currently serving as Mayor / Chair on Newport City Council, will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to […]
Posted inNews
BrucePac recalls ready-to-eat meat and poultry products
The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is advising consumers not to consume nearly 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products recalled by BrucePac. The recall is due to potential Listeria contamination. The recalled products were produced between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024, and were distributed nationwide to various establishments, including […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Charlie Holder, candidate for Newport City Council At-Large
Charlie Holder, a Newport City Council At-Large candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 10 am on Thursday, October 10, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Holder, who currently represents Ward 2 on Newport City Council, will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell […]
Posted inElection
Newport School Committee candidate Loretta ‘Lori’ Burke calls for ‘back to basics’ approach
Loretta “Lori” Burke, a candidate for Newport School Committee, is running on a platform of getting “back to basics” in education. Burke, who works at the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce, says her background as an Air Force child and deep family roots in Newport education give her a unique perspective on local school issues. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Ghosts launches historic tours that uncover the skeletons in the city’s streets
October is the spooky month. Vampires, ghouls, demons, and ghosts are icons of Halloween, horror, and stories to tell in the dark. For those who get a thrill out of the supernatural, October is the pinnacle time to look for the creepy, the spooky, and the inexplicable in real life; this month is ghost hunting […]
Posted inNews
Portsmouth history comes alive at Butts Hill Fort Tour
History enthusiasts and community members are invited to a unique tour of Butts Hill Fort on Saturday, October 19th, at 10:00 AM. The tour, presented as part of the “Discover Your Portsmouth” series, will feature live readings of historical documents by members of the Portsmouth Community Theater. The event, organized by the Butts Hill Fort […]
Posted inNews
Newport named second-best place to retire affordably in U.S.
Newport has been ranked the second-best place in the United States to retire affordably, according to Fortune’s inaugural “25 Best Places to Retire Affordably” list. Newport offers retirees a blend of tranquility and engagement in a picturesque New England setting, according to Fortune. Fortune evaluated over 2,000 locations across all 50 states, considering factors such […]
Posted inNews
Daily Digest: Wednesday, Oct. 9
Good Morning. It’s Wednesday, October 9, and today, we’re covering tonight’s Newport City Council meeting, the assessment of water lines for lead, our latest conversations with Newport School Committee candidates, and more. 👋 First time reading this newsletter? Welcome! Join more than 17,000 who wake up to us daily. Sign up here. This story originally appeared in […]
Posted inArts & Culture
State Arts Agency encourages high schools to sign up for 20th Poetry Out Loud Recitation Competition
The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) is encouraging high schools to sign up for the 20th Poetry Out Loud Recitation Competition. A partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Poetry Foundation, and RISCA, the competition boasts “lifting poetry off the page” and improving students’ public speaking skills. This school year […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Judy Merriwether
Judy Merriwether, 65, passed away October 5, 2024, peacefully at home. Judy was born August 28, 1959, in San Diego, CA. Judy lived in Newport for 53 years. Judy was outgoing, having never met a stranger, speaking to everyone she came across. As a result, she was known throughout Newport, you could even call her […]
Posted inCity & Government
RIPEC analyzes Rhode Island’s investments in housing
The Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC) today published an analysis of Rhode Island housing policy, with a focus on the state’s recent investments in affordable housing. “Over the past few years, the state has made significant investments in affordable housing and enacted new policies to increase Rhode Island’s housing supply,” RIPEC says in a […]
Posted inSports
Bennett scores twice, Panthers open their title defense by getting past rival Bruins 6-4
By TIM REYNOLDS AP Sports Writer SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — Sam Bennett scored twice, Sam Reinhart and Evan Rodrigues each had a goal and an assist, and the Florida Panthers opened defense of their Stanley Cup championship by topping the Boston Bruins 6-4 on Tuesday in the opener for both teams. Euto Luostarinen and Jonah Gadjovich also […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport School Committee candidate Elizabeth “Beth” Cullen emphasizes new approaches, collaboration
Elizabeth “Beth” Cullen, a candidate for Newport School Committee, is emphasizing the need for new educational approaches and improved collaboration between city officials and educators as she campaigns for one of the open seats in the upcoming election. Cullen, a self-proclaimed fourth-generation Newporter with 30 years of experience in the local school system, believes her […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council to discuss seasonal rentals, bond impact at City Council Meeting on Oct. 9
Newport’s City Council is set to convene at Pell Elementary School on Wednesday, October 9, at 6:30 p.m. for its regular meeting, temporarily relocating due to ongoing elevator maintenance issues at City Hall. Mayor Xaykham Khamsyvoravong views the change of venue as an opportunity to bring city government closer to residents. “We are embracing the […]
Posted inElection, Opinion
Letter to The Editor: Memorandum from the City Manager regarding Bond Measures
On the docket for the City Council meeting on October 9th I read our City Manager’s Memorandum re: question 6, the $98.5 million bond referendum on the November election ballot. He urges Newport voters to vote “Yes.” My opinion? YES! This is an excellent memorandum – clear, well written and convincing with specific examples of how […]
Posted inCity & Government
In response to new regulations, Newport Water Division evaluating water lines for lead
In response to new federal and state regulations, the City of Newport today published a press release announcing that its Water Division is currently assessing both private and public service lines across the City for the presence of lead. The new regulations, which went into effect earlier this year, require all water utilities across the […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Loretta Burke, candidate for Newport School Committee
Loretta “Lori” Burke, a Newport School Committee candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, October 9, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Burke will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell us what you’d like us to Ask The Candidate […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Lucille Petrucci
Lucille Marie Moreau Petrucci, 90, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 26 years, Rudolph “Rudy” Petrucci. Born on September 20, 1934, in Providence, Rhode Island, she was the daughter of the late Cecile (Chartier) Moreau and Eugene Joseph Moreau. Lucille graduated from Saint […]
Posted inCity & Government
Ask The Mayor: Mayor Xay to preview Oct. 9 City Council Meeting
Newport Mayor Xaykham (Xay) Khamsyvoravong will join What’sUpNewp for a one-on-one conversation at 3:30 pm on Tuesday, October 8. During the discussion, we’ll preview the docket for the Wednesday, October 9 Newport City Council Meeting. This conversation will explain why things appear on the docket and what they mean. Do you have a question for the Mayor […]
Posted inSports
National Sailing Hall of Fame inducts Class of 2024 in Chicago
The National Sailing Hall of Fame welcomed its Class of 2024 during a weekend of events in Chicago, recognizing 12 individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport of sailing. The induction ceremony, held Saturday at the Chicago Yacht Club, brought together current and new inductees, along with friends, family, and fans to celebrate […]
Posted inNews
Daily Digest: Tuesday, October 8
Good Morning. It’s Tuesday, October 8, and today, we’re covering our four conversations with Newport School Committee candidates, plans for Middletown Library, Middletown Center, Charter Books, and more. 👋 First time reading this newsletter? Welcome! Join more than 17,000 who wake up to us daily. Sign up here. 🙏 Have you considered becoming a What’sUpNewp Supporter? Join today to support […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter To The Editor: Why (I’m Voting for) Xay (pronounced Sigh)
Newport’s future as a world-class city and more importantly as our home, depends on our vulnerable island infrastructure co-existing with a fierce and unpredictable Mother Nature. Just one example is the overhaul of Easton’s Beach, addressing the increased storm surge and flooding that has destroyed the beach facilities and is an imminent threat to our […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Carla Rae Lathan
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Carla Rae Lathan on October 5, 2024. She was 87 years old. Carla was born on September 10, 1937, in Attleboro, MA, and was the daughter of the late Carl W. and Lisle Jordon. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Carla is […]
Posted inNews
Middletown shifts library plans, buys property for $3.3 million
The Middletown Town Council announced Monday night a significant change to the town’s library relocation plans. The town will purchase the 3.5-acre property at 110 Enterprise Center for $3.3 million, moving the planned library from its originally proposed location at 740 West Main Road. This move is expected to save taxpayers at least $14 million, […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Elizabeth Cullen, candidate for Newport School Committee
Elizabeth “Beth” Cullen, a Newport School Committee candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 4:30 pm on Tuesday, October 8, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Cullen will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell us what you’d like us to Ask The Candidate […]
Posted inNews, Nonprofit
Newport Historical Society welcomes new board members at Annual Meeting
At their 2024 annual meeting, the Newport Historical Society Board of Directors voted to welcome Dan Benson and Kathryn “KK” Streator to the Board and renewed its slate of officers: Douglas Newhouse as President, Dwight Sipprelle as Vice President, Nancy Brickley as Treasurer, and Anne F. Hamilton as Secretary. “At a moment of growth and […]
Posted inNews
Charter Books named Independent Bookstore of the Year
Charter Books in Newport has been named the New England Independent Bookstore of the Year by the Book Publishers Representatives of New England (BPRNE). The award, announced at the New England Independent Booksellers Association’s (NEIBA) 51st annual fall conference in Newton, Massachusetts, recognizes independent bookstores in business for at least three years that demonstrate exceptional […]
Posted inElection
Incumbent Stephanie Winslow seeks re-election to Newport School Committee
Stephanie Winslow, an incumbent Newport School Committee member, is seeking re-election for what would be her third term. Winslow, who was initially appointed to fill a vacancy in March 2020, has been a key figure in policy reform and equity initiatives within the Newport Public Schools system. Winslow, a Newport native and computer programmer by […]
Posted inNews
Sandra Flowers cites Rogers, ongoing challenges as motivation for re-election bid to School Committee
Dr. Sandra J. Flowers, a longtime member of the Newport School Committee, is seeking re-election for her ninth term. With 16 years on the committee and 30 years as a teacher in Newport public schools, Flowers brings nearly five decades of experience to her candidacy. “I’m approaching the end of my 8th term, which means […]
Posted inNews
Algonquin Gas conducting maintenance at Old Mill Lane station, controlled venting possible
A natural gas pipeline maintenance operation is being conducted at the Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC meter station site at 13 Old Mill Lane in Portsmouth from Oct. 7-16, during which time the controlled venting of natural gas may occur intermittently between 7 am and 7 pm, the town announced. Company representatives will be on site […]
Posted inNews
Special Joint Legislative Commission to study student transportation needs and system costs will hold its first meeting
A special commission tasked with studying student transportation needs and costs in Rhode Island will hold a meeting Wednesday to discuss the statewide transportation system. The meeting of the Special Joint Legislative Commission to Study Student Transportation Needs and System Costs is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. in Room 135 on the first floor of the […]
Posted inElection
Becky Bolan seeks re-election to Newport School Committee to see Rogers High School project through completion
Newport School Committee Chair Becky Bolan has announced that if she is re-elected in November that her next term would be her last, citing a desire to see the Rogers High School project through to completion. Bolan, who has served on the committee for approximately 17 years, made the announcement during an interview with Ryan […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Gilded Age fashion exhibit to open at Salve Regina University
A new exhibition showcasing Gilded Age fashion in New England will open on October 10 at The Dorrance H. Hamilton Gallery at Salve Regina University. “Fashion and Longing: Gilded Age Dress in New England” features clothing from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The exhibit, put together by Salve Regina University’s Department of Art […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Guster, Avett Brothers and Florence Welch are helping bring alt-rock to the musical theater stage
By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Ryan Miller, lead singer of alternative rock band Guster, has a new gig that even he’s a little surprised about: Musical theater songwriter. He laughs that he’s gone all Broadway. “I just went full-into the ballpit — just, like, face-first, take-me-wherever-this-is-going,” he said before a recent […]
Posted inThings To Do
What’s Up in Newport: Oct. 7 – 14
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in and around Newport, Rhode Island, this week/weekend, Monday, October 7 through Monday, October 14, 2024. Please note – weather and other circumstances may cancel or change the location of an event at any time. Please check with event organizers to confirm an event’s status. This story […]
Posted inNews, Real Estate
What Sold: A look at the 25 homes that changed hands in Newport County last week (Sept. 30 – Oct. 4)
The Newport County real estate market continues to demonstrate consistent activity with 25 homes changing hands last week according to data sourced from the Rhode Island statewide MLS. Even with the change in weather and move into the Fall season, we have some prime weekends ahead of us with events like the Broadway Street Fair […]
Posted inNews
Fall Supporter Drive: Help us grow local journalism in Newport!
Dear reader, I’m writing to ask for your support in our Fall Supporter Drive. As a local independent online news publisher, we rely on the generosity of our readers to keep our award-winning journalism alive. Last month, we published 479 stories, many of them originals that could only be found on WhatsUpNewp.com. This is only […]
Posted inElection, News, Opinion
Letter To The Editor: Vote no on Question 1
Our Rhode Island constitution, Article 14 Section 2, states that every 10 years, voters must be asked, “Shall there be a convention to amend or revise the Constitution?” This Nov. 5, Rhode Island voters will decide that. As a former Rhode Island state representative, I have had the honor of serving on both the 2014 and 2024 bipartisan […]
Posted inCity & Government
Daily Digest: Monday, October 7
Good Morning. It’s Monday, October 7, and we’re covering the 50th Norman Bird Sanctuary Harvest Fair, a nonprofit’s race to save Sandy Point Farm from auction, the $98.5 million Infrastructure Bond Newport voters must decide on, and more. 👋 First time reading this newsletter? Welcome! Join more than 17,000 who wake up to us daily. Sign up […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Clara Louise Cotta
Clara Louise (Booker) Cotta, 92, of Portsmouth, RI, passed away peacefully at home with her loving family by her side on October 5, 2024. She was the wife of William J. Cotta Sr for over 46 years, and the former wife of the late Paul White. Born in Hermon, ME, on June 25, 1932, she […]
Posted inElection
Letter to The Editor: Endorsement of Representative Lauren Carson
As a four-year Newport resident I worry about the climate crisis and the threats of catastrophic storm damage and coastal flooding. Representative Lauren Carson is an effective leader in the battle against climate change. 1. In 2021 as lead sponsor of the Act On Climate, she led efforts in the House to pass landmark legislation […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Stephanie Winslow, candidate for Newport School Committee
Stephanie Winslow, a Newport School Committee candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 5:30 pm on Monday, October 7, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Winslow will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell us what you’d like us to Ask The Candidate by […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Sandra J. Flowers, candidate for Newport School Committee
Sandra J. Flowers, a Newport School Committee candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 4 pm on Monday, October 7, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Flowers will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell us what you’d like us to Ask The Candidate […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Becky Bolan, candidate for Newport School Committee
Becky Bolan, a Newport School Committee candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 2 pm on Monday, October 7, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Bolan will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell us what you’d like us to Ask The Candidate by […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Irene Richardson
Irene Marie Richardson, a beloved member of the Middletown community, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, just one day shy of her 93rd birthday. Born in Fall River, MA, Irene dedicated her life to her family and she loved her career as a seamstress, working in Fall River, Cumberland, and Woonsocket. Her legacy will […]
Posted inElection
Ask The Candidate: A conversation with Robert B. Power, candidate for Newport School Committee
Robert B. Power, a Newport School Committee candidate, will join What’sUpNewp at 1 pm on Monday, October 7, as part of our “Ask The Candidate” series. During the discussion, Power will answer our and your questions about his candidacy, platforms, and important issues to voters. Tell us what you’d like us to Ask The Candidate […]
Posted inSports
New (and old) winners prevail at 2024 ORC World Championship
By Dobbs Davis. Photo: Paul Todd / Outside Images After six days of competitive inshore and offshore racing within three classes, two new and one returning team have been crowned ORC World Champions at the New York Yacht Club Harbour Court. These three teams demonstrated an exceptional level of preparation, practice and eventual execution to […]
Posted inBusiness
Nonprofit races to save Sandy Point Farm from auction
A race against time is underway to save Sandy Point Farm, a historic Portsmouth property with ties to the Vanderbilt family, as it heads to auction later this month. The newly formed Sandy Point Heritage Foundation is scrambling to raise $1.5 million by October 15 in hopes of preserving the site as a community hub. […]