Elizabeth J. “Betty” Mello, 86, of Middletown, passed away Monday June 29, 2026, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late John R. “Bobby” Mello for 54 years. Born on July 23, 1939, she was the daughter of George S. and Catherine (Holland) Lopes and spent her youth […]
Newport County
Posted inSports
Monasterio and Rafaela homers power the Red Sox to an 8-1 win over the White Sox
CHICAGO (AP) — Payton Tolle allowed two hits in six shutout innings, Andruw Monasterio and Ceddanne Rafaela homered and the Boston Red Sox beat the Chicago White Sox 8-1 on Tuesday night. Boston (41-48) has won four in a row and nine of its last 11 to close within seven games of .500 for the […]
Posted inNews
Audrain Automobile Museum to display Declaration of Independence and James Bond’s Aston Martin on July 19
The Audrain Automobile Museum will mark America’s 250th anniversary with a Declaration of Independence Archive Day on Sunday, July 19, giving the public a rare chance to view historic Declaration of Independence documents from Rhode Island’s archives alongside one of cinema’s most iconic automobiles. Admission is free from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event […]
Posted inNews
Free skin cancer screenings coming to Easton’s Beach and other Rhode Island beaches this summer
Rhode Island beachgoers will have the chance to get a free skin cancer screening this summer, with dermatologists from Brown Health Dermatology setting up at Easton’s Beach and four other locations across the state between mid-July and mid-August. The first local stop is Easton’s Beach in Newport on Friday, July 10, from 1:30 to 3:30 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Providence indie favorites Lazy Trail headline NIMFest 2026 this Sunday at King Park
Lazy Trail, a Providence-based indie rock and bedroom pop project, will headline the opening concert of NIMFest 2026 this Sunday, July 12, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the King Park Gazebo, 125 Wellington Ave. Providence singer-songwriter Hey Rel opens the afternoon. Admission is free. Lazy Trail is the project of songwriter Emma Willer, whose […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Diane Marie Murnane
Diane Marie Murnane, 76, passed away peacefully in Newport RI, on July 2nd, 2026. Born on August 3rd, 1949 in Boston, MA, she was the oldest of 5 daughters of Catherine (Larkin) and William Murnane. Diane is survived by her daughter, Jacqueline Stahl (Jonathan) of Middletown, Rhode Island, grandchildren Lauren, Megan, Isaac and Benjamin Stahl; […]
Posted inCity & Government
Cortvriend announces bid for fifth term representing Middletown and Portsmouth
Rhode Island House Representative Terri-Denise Cortvriend has announced she will seek a fifth term representing House District 72, which covers Middletown and Portsmouth. First elected in November 2018, Cortvriend has focused her tenure on environmental protection, climate resilience, shoreline access, small business support, and senior issues. She chairs the Legislative Study Commission on Climate Change […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter: The kids are watching
As I reflect on my first term serving as Ward 1 Councilor in Newport, I keep coming back to the young people in our community. This year, they reminded me why I do this work. From the City Council dais, I have advocated for policies that create safer, healthier, and more equitable opportunities for Newport […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter: Save Perrotti Park
The City should move forward with repairing the failing Perrotti Park bulkhead. That work is necessary. But Newport residents should be very cautious about allowing a needed infrastructure repair to quietly become a much larger building project that changes one of downtown’s most important public harbor-view spaces. The concern is not the seawall. The concern […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter to the editor: Taryn Mazza makes her case for Newport City Council At-Large
Hi Neighbor! My name is Taryn Mazza and I am running for Newport City Council, At-Large. I’m a longtime Newporter who was born at Newport Hospital and graduated from Rogers High School in 1994 (Go Vikings). I spent nearly a decade on the West Coast but truly, nothing compares to our fair city. Newport is […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Firehouse Theater brings standup comedy to Newport this month with two shows
Newport’s Firehouse Theater is adding standup comedy to its July lineup, welcoming two comics to the stage this month before its regular weekend shows from The Bit Players. On Sunday, July 12, Boston-based comedian Andrew Mayer brings his new one-man show, Have Fun, Be Yourself, to the Firehouse ahead of a run at the prestigious […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport ‘Candidate Signature Events Tour’ reshuffles remaining dates due to weather
Weather has forced last-minute changes to the remaining stops on Newport’s “Candidate Signature Events Tour,” a series of park gatherings organized by City Councilor-at-Large Steph Smyth to give residents a chance to meet candidates and sign nomination papers. Monday’s scheduled event at Battery Park has been cancelled, as has Tuesday’s gathering at Miantonomi Park. In […]
Posted inColumns
Book review: Neil deGrasse Tyson’s ‘Take Me To Your Leader’ is less etiquette guide than cosmic musing
I was expecting “Take Me To Your Leader: Perspectives On Your First Alien Encounter” to offer lots of insightful tips from famous astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson on how to behave, what to say, and what questions to ask if a space alien were to come knocking at my front door. In fact, the back blurb […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: John Thomas Reid
John Thomas Reid, beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, businessman, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones and fortified by the Sacraments of the Church. He was 82 years old. Born on April 19, 1944, in Providence, Rhode Island. John was the youngest of three children of Catherine Quinn […]
Posted inSports
Homers by Contreras, Gonzalez back Gray’s strong start in Red Sox’s 8-1 win over Angels
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Willson Contreras and Romy Gonzalez homered to back the superb pitching of Sonny Gray, who allowed one run and four hits in six innings of the Boston Red Sox’s 8-1 win over the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday night. Wilyer Abreu added a two-run double, and relievers Jovani Morán, Greg Weissert […]
Posted inColumns
Just My Opinion: Independence Day
What is America? We are white, black, brown, red, yellow … we are the rainbow. We are Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, evangelicals, atheist, agnostic. We embrace all who worship and those that do not. We are Latino American Indian, Asian, German, French, English, Italian, Irish, African, Portuguese, Iranian, Israeli, multi-racial and multi-cultural. We come […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island Beer Club and Foolproof Brewing release Honey Hound to benefit animal rescue league
Rhode Island Beer Club has partnered with Foolproof Brewing Company to create Honey Hound, a limited-edition Honey Kölsch benefiting the Providence Animal Rescue League. The beer will debut Saturday, Aug. 1, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Foolproof Brewing Company in Pawtucket, with a portion of every pint and can sold supporting the rescue league’s […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter: We need Dawn Euer in the Rhode Island Senate
Being a Rhode Island legislator is a challenging calling to pursue. To start with, we pay our state legislators less than $20,000 per year. This is not enough to quit your day job. And in this part-time gig, we expect our legislators to understand a number of complex legal, legislative, economic, environmental and social issues […]
Posted inColumns
Involuntary: The independence we struggle to protect
On June 12, at CCRI, there was a free, invitation-only, screening of Involuntary, a 13-minute, short film followed by a moderated panel discussion featuring award-winning filmmakers, Dana White and Chris Knoblock; Rhode Island State Representative Lauren Carson; Elizabeth Shields,MD, a family medicine physician in private-pay practice; Partanja Spann, Director of Rhode Island Outreach for Newport […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Dorothy Elizabeth Pettit
It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Dorothy Rego Pettit, who left this earth from the comfort of her home on June 28, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on November 9, 1929, in the scenic coastal town of Newport, Rhode Island, Dorothy was the cherished […]
Posted inColumns
Three storylines that will define Rhode Island’s housing market this summer
Every week, I have conversations with buyers, sellers, investors, lenders, attorneys, and fellow brokers across Rhode Island. While no one has a crystal ball, a few themes continue to surface that I believe will define our housing market this summer.Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. alongside fellow members of […]
Posted inNews
Winners crowned at 24th Clagett Regatta and 2026 U.S. Para Sailing Championships
Twenty-five sailors have completed three days of racing at the 24th C. Thomas Clagett, Jr. Memorial Clinic and Regatta and 2026 U.S. Para Sailing Championships, capping five days on the water in Newport that began with a two-day coaching clinic. The 13 sailors in the 2.4mR class and six boats in the Martin 16 class […]
Posted inBusiness
McKee administration announces $8 million in business incentives, including $6.2 million for Raytheon’s Portsmouth expansion
Gov. Dan McKee, chair of the Rhode Island Commerce Board, has announced $8 million in incentives to support business growth, job creation and innovation, including $6.2 million in tax credits for Raytheon to create 150 new jobs at its Portsmouth facility. “Every new job and innovative idea brought to market strengthens our economy and creates […]
Posted inPolice & Fire
Newport police announce July 4 parking ban for fireworks display
The Newport Police Department has announced a parking ban for Saturday, July 4, to ease traffic congestion around the city’s annual fireworks display. No parking will be allowed on West Narragansett Avenue between Thames Street and Marchant Street; Washington Street between Bridge Street and Gladys Carr Bolhouse Road (the Causeway); and Memorial Boulevard from Bellevue […]
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The Samuel Durfee House offered for sale after nearly three decades of stewardship
One of Newport’s historic inns and a Doris Duke Historic Preservation Award-winning property is entering a new chapter. After more than 28 years of stewardship, the Samuel Durfee House, a storied hospitality property in Newport’s Yachting Village, is for sale. The offering includes three distinct buildings at 352 Spring Street and 9 Bowery Court, representing […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘The Voice’ standout Madison Curbelo to open NIMFest 2026 at King Park Gazebo
The New England Music Organization will open the 2026 Newport Independent Music Festival, or NIMFest, with “The Voice” standout Madison Curbelo, performing with special guest Atticus Allen on Sunday, July 5, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the King Park Gazebo, 125 Wellington Ave. The free, family-friendly series returns for the summer, bringing local and […]
Posted inSports
Newport Gulls to induct 2026 Hall of Fame class at Cardines Field
Cardines Field will host the Newport Gulls’ 2026 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Saturday, July 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., celebrating contributors who have made a lasting impact on Gulls history and the Newport community. The 2026 class includes seven former players: catcher Troy Dixon (2016), outfielder Ben Roberts (2013-2014), pitcher Dan Mahoney […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Elizabeth M. Watts
Elizabeth Marie Watts, 81 of Freebody Street, Newport died Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the St. Clare Nursing Home in Newport. Born September 29,1944, in Newport, she was the beloved daughter of the late Frank J. Watts, Jr. and Marie E. (Bucci) Watts. Before her retirement, she excelled as a well-respected Executive Secretary for the […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Leddy Alexandra Dugan
Leddy Alexandra Dugan passed away at her home on Sunday, June 21, 2026. Her life was defined by the love she shared with her family and friends. She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, and friend whose warmth, humor, and strength touched everyone who knew her. Leddy was a fierce, funny, warm-hearted, and strong-willed woman with […]
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RIDOH recommends reopening swimming areas at Hazards and Gooseberry beaches in Newport
The Rhode Island Department of Health is recommending that the swimming areas at Hazards and Gooseberry beaches in Newport reopen after bacteria counts returned to safe levels. The recommendation comes days after the department advised closing the swimming areas at both beaches, along with several others in Jamestown and Tiverton, because of high bacteria counts. […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter to the editor: Why I’m running for Newport City Council
I’m proud to officially announce my candidacy for Newport City Council. Newport isn’t just where I live. It’s home. I was born at Newport Hospital, attended Newport Public Schools, spent summers at Camp Rocky Farm and Braga Park, learned to play tennis at Vernon and Rogers Courts with my late great-uncle Frank Kenney, played softball […]
Posted inHistory
History: June 27, 1898 – Joshua Slocum Arrives in Newport, Becomes 1st Man to Sail Single-Handedly Around the World
Did you know that the first solo circumnavigation of the globe was completed in Newport, Rhode Island? Joshua Slocum Captain Joshua Slocum, a native of Novia Scotia, completed the feat on June 27th, 1898. On April 24, 1895, at the age of 51, he departed Boston in his tiny sloop Spray , a 36′ 9″ gaff rigged […]
Posted inColumns
Dr. Michael Fine: What’s crazy about decent medical care
I ran into my friend Bert last night and we got to talking. “I hear you guys talking about medical care, about how it is for-profit and lots of people are using it to make too much money on the backs of communities,” he said. “But my care is great. I go to Oak Street. […]
Posted inNews
Underwater ribbon cutting ushers in new URI Ocean Robotics Laboratory
The University of Rhode Island celebrated a major milestone in the $300 million, multi-phase revitalization of its Narragansett Bay Campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Ocean Robotics Laboratory on June 25. Students Elliot Roman and Jake Bonney piloted URI’s remotely operated vehicle Rhody to cut the ceremonial ribbon underwater in the building’s 20-foot-wide […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Charter Books to host bestselling author Jenny Jackson at OceanCliff for ‘The Shampoo Effect’
Charter Books will welcome Jenny Jackson, New York Times bestselling author of “Pineapple Street” and vice president and editorial director of fiction at Alfred A. Knopf, to Newport for a special event at OceanCliff celebrating her latest novel, “The Shampoo Effect.” The event will take place Monday, July 13, from 4 to 6 p.m., with […]
Posted inReal Estate
On the Market: A look at every Open House hosting in Newport County (June 27-28)
As visitors return for weddings, vacations, weekends on the water, and everything that makes this part of Rhode Island so special, many also begin to imagine what it would be like to call this place home. That seasonal influx consistently brings new buyers into the market, and while inventory remains relatively limited, we’re beginning to […]
Posted inArts & Culture
For actor Alex LeBlanc, a summer of ‘Grease’ and ‘Titanic’ at Theatre by the Sea
Alex LeBlanc is excited to spend a chunk of his summer at Theatre by the Sea. The 24-year-old East Greenwich actor is appearing both in “Grease” and “Titanic.” “This is my first time (at Theatre by the Sea) as an adult,” said LeBlanc in our recent interview. “I did ‘Mary Poppins’ here in 2014. I […]
Posted inNews
Potter League launches ‘Stars, Stripes & Second Chances’ adoption event as shelter reaches capacity
With its Animal Care & Adoption Center at capacity, the Potter League for Animals has launched its “Stars, Stripes & Second Chances” adoption event, offering 50% off adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats from June 26 through July 2. The discount applies to all adult dogs and cats 6 months and older. The […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Vineyards launches Tuesday Tunes series and continues Sunday music through August
Newport Vineyards will kick off its Tuesday Tunes music series next week and continue its weekly Sunday Music Series, offering free live music at the Middletown winery throughout the summer. The Tuesday Tunes series runs from 5 to 8 p.m. weekly, beginning June 30 with Funkademic. Guests can bring lawn chairs and order from a […]
Posted inSports
Clagett Regatta to host 2026 U.S. Para Sailing Championships at Sail Newport
The C. Thomas Clagett, Jr. Memorial Clinic and Regatta will host the 2026 U.S. Para Sailing Championships at Sail Newport from June 26 to 28, marking the fourth time the event has hosted the national championships. The 24th annual Clagett Regatta has drawn 25 entries from sailors across the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Lois Jean Simpson
Lois Jean Simpson, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, teacher, and woman of deep and abiding faith, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Middletown, Rhode Island, with family at her side. She left this world as gracefully as she lived, with the same gentleness, dignity, and quiet strength that defined her life. To […]
Posted inNews
Jermain reflects on 12 years, charts what’s next for Newport schools in final monthly chat
Newport Public Schools Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joined What’sUpNewp owner and publisher Ryan Belmore and editor Frank Prosnitz on Wednesday afternoon for her final monthly conversation — capping a series that has run for several years, now ended by her June 30 retirement after more than 12 years leading the district. The conversation was equal […]
Posted inNews
AARP commits $143,000 in grants to strengthen Rhode Island communities, including Bike Newport
AARP has announced that nine organizations across Rhode Island will receive 2026 Community Challenge grants, including Bike Newport, as part of a national effort to make communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. The grants, totaling $143,000 in Rhode Island, are part of an $8.3 million commitment by AARP nationwide — […]
Posted inCity & Government
Nine candidates enter Newport City Council at-large race as filing period closes
The filing period for Newport’s fall municipal elections closed Wednesday with nine candidates entered in the race for at-large seats on the Newport City Council, including Mayor Charles Holder, who is seeking re-election. Holder, who serves as council chair and mayor, which is chosen by all seven members of the council from among the four […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Jose Luis Vincent Barrientos
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jose Luis Vincent Barrientos on June 18, 2026, at the age of 68. Surrounded by family, he left this world to reunite with his soulmate, Deborah Berriochoa. Jose was born on December 22, 1957, in La Paz, Bolivia, and he filled the lives of […]
Posted inNonprofit
Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial race raises $32,000 for Newport County YMCA and MLK Community Center
A rainy start didn’t deter 357 participants from running and walking in the third annual Charlie Holder Sr. Memorial Race on Saturday, May 9, an event that raised $32,000 for two Newport County organizations. This year’s race added a new 10K alongside the 5K run/walk and virtual options. Again presented by BRS Building Company, the […]
Posted inReal Estate
What Sold: A look at a dozen recent sales in Newport County (June 15 – 19)
Twelve properties changed hands across Newport County last week, highlighted by a few notable sales in Jamestown and Newport. The top sale belonged to 35 Battery Lane in Jamestown, which traded for $3,950,000, followed closely by 115 Washington Street in Newport at $2,670,000. While supply remains constrained and demand continues to support pricing, we are […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Leonard James Petze
Leonard James “Lennie” Petze, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a towering figure in the music industry, passed away on June 16, 2026, in Providence, Rhode Island. He was 84 years old. Born on May 5, 1942, in Weymouth, Massachusetts, Lennie grew up in a lively multi-family home with his parents, sisters, uncle, aunt, […]
Posted inSports
International Tennis Hall of Fame unveils Roger Federer exhibit ahead of August induction
The International Tennis Hall of Fame has unveiled new museum exhibits celebrating the achievements that have shaped tennis history, anchored by an installation honoring Roger Federer ahead of his induction this August. The new exhibits serve as a centerpiece of the lead-up to the 2026 Induction Celebration, which will welcome Federer and broadcaster and journalist […]
Posted inCity & Government
McKee administration awards $9.5 million for affordable housing, including $4.5 million for a Newport project
Gov. Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing have announced $9.5 million in awards through the Housing 2030 Public Developer Program, including $4.5 million for a new affordable housing development in Newport. The bond-funded program is designed to help public housing authorities and their nonprofit affiliates develop and preserve affordable rental housing. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jane Pickens Theater to host two special film events on storytelling, music and cultural change
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center will present two special film events this summer, each pairing a screening with a live conversation exploring storytelling, music and cultural change. The first, on Monday, June 29, is a special screening of the acclaimed 2025 romantic drama “The History of Sound,” followed by a live conversation with […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council, School Committee races take shape as filing period enters final day
The field for Newport’s fall municipal elections began to come into focus Tuesday as candidates filed declarations of candidacy on the second day of the state’s three-day filing window. Five candidates have entered the race for Newport City Council at-large, including incumbent Stephanie Smyth. Also filing were Jane LeBoeuf, Kevin Michaud, Christine Hope Sullivan, and […]
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Pell Elementary kindergarten teacher Diane McBrier named Newport Teacher of the Year
Pell Elementary School kindergarten teacher Diane McBrier has been named the Newport Public School District Teacher of the Year for the 2026-2027 school year. McBrier is a veteran educator with 28 years of teaching experience, 26 of them with Newport Public Schools. She has taught at Underwood School, Sheffield School, Coggeshall School and Cranston-Calvert School […]
Posted inInstagram
Newport candidates begin declaring for office as filing period opens
Newport candidates began formally declaring for local, statewide and federal offices Monday, the first of three days in Rhode Island’s candidate filing period, with the early field already shaping up to include a crowded race for School Committee. According to a list of Newport residents who declared on the first day, released by the city’s […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week returns Oct. 1-4 with new Supercar Concours
Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week will return Oct. 1 to 4, with the eighth edition of the event expanding into a two-concours weekend for the first time. The event arrives fresh off being named Motoring Event of the Year at the 2025 International Historic Motoring Awards, just three years after receiving the organization’s Rising […]
Posted inNews
Yozura announces candidacy for Newport School Committee
Amy Yozura, a longtime Newport resident, has announced that she is running for the Newport School Committee, pledging to ensure the city’s public schools have the funding they need. A graduate of Marist University, Yozura holds a degree in communications and business marketing and has worked in both education and private aviation throughout her career. […]
Posted inColumns
Michele Gallagher: Summer in the City-by-the-Sea has something for everyone
The Newport Flower Show, hosted annually by the Preservation Society of Newport County at Rosecliff mansion, is the official bellwether of summer in Newport. It helps that this event is typically planned around the summer solstice when Aquidneck Islanders are clamoring for sunshine and longer days. This year commemorated the event’s 30th anniversary and the […]
Posted inCity & Government
Barron announces candidacy for Newport School Committee
Elizabeth “Liz” Barron, a school psychologist, veteran educator and parent of two Newport Public Schools students, has announced her candidacy for the Newport School Committee, with a focus on strengthening leadership, improving early intervention services for students and ensuring stable, adequate funding for the city’s schools. Barron has lived in Newport for more than a […]
Posted inCity & Government
Candidates began to declare for office today
Beginning today (Monday) through Wednesday afternoon, candidates in Rhode Island will officially declare for local, statewide and federal offices. Declarations come on the heels of a Democratic state convention that failed to offer endorsements in the governor’s, lieutenant governor’s, and attorney general races. Republicans meet later in the week. The declarations are the first step […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Sarah A. Pierce
Sarah (Sally) Holgate Pierce passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on October 14, 1934, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Sally was an adored daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She spent her life nurturing her family and creating a warm and loving home. Sally built a family filled […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Grace Loretta Furtado
Grace Loretta (Brownell) Furtado passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 18, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on January 4, 1933, in Newport, Rhode Island, Grace’s story began on Aquidneck Island. A proud native Newporter, she grew up on The Point and graduated from Rogers High School in 1950. During that […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jane Pickens Theater unveils summer concert lineup, headlined by Rolling Thunder Revue tribute
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center has announced a summer lineup of live music celebrating rock legends, blues virtuosos and original artists, headlined by a 50th-anniversary tribute to Bob Dylan’s Rolling Thunder Revue. The centerpiece event, “Rolling Thunder Revue — Live Tribute Concert,” comes to the theater on Tuesday, July 21, with doors at […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Classical Music Festival to present four special chamber concerts at The Breakers and Blithewold
The Newport Classical Music Festival will spotlight the intimate genre of chamber music with four special performances for trios and quartets between July 5 and July 12, part of a festival that turns the City by the Sea into a summer destination for music lovers. Running from July 2 to 19, the festival features 30 […]
Posted inNews
Rhode Island election agencies announce first graduates of certification program
The Rhode Island Board of Elections and the Rhode Island Department of State have announced the graduation of the first cohort of election officials from the Election Training and Certification, or ETAC, program, a professional development and certification program jointly developed and administered by the state’s election agencies. Sixty-seven election officials received their ETAC certifications […]
Posted inNews
Preserve Rhode Island awards $105,000 in historic preservation grants, including four in Newport
Preserve Rhode Island, in partnership with The 1772 Foundation, has awarded about $105,000 in matching grants to 13 nonprofit organizations across the state to support urgent repairs and long-term preservation at some of Rhode Island’s most treasured historic places, including four in Newport. The one-to-one matching grants will fund bricks-and-mortar work at sites ranging from […]
Posted inNews
Newport Airport Day returns June 28 with aircraft displays, helicopter rides and family fun
Newport State Airport will host the seventh annual Newport Airport Day on Sunday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., welcoming the public for a community aviation event for all ages. The event will feature aircraft static displays, giving visitors a close-up look at a variety of airplanes and helicopters. Attendees will also have […]
Posted inNews
Aquidneck Island Robotics team showcases talent at People’s Credit Union
People’s Credit Union recently hosted Aquidneck Island Robotics at its Middletown headquarters, where students showed their appreciation for the sponsor with a hands-on robotics demonstration. Aquidneck Island Robotics, known as AIR, is the largest community-based youth competitive robotics organization in the state. Open to all K-12 students in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts from public, […]
Posted inNews
Secretary of State reminds candidates of June 22-24 declaration filing period
Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore and the Rhode Island Department of State’s Elections Division are reminding prospective candidates of the upcoming filing period for declaration of candidacy forms. Declarations of candidacy must be filed on June 22, 23 or 24, with a deadline of 4 p.m. on June 24. Candidates for federal and statewide […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Laura Morris
Laura Alexandra (Marley) Morris, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, foster mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 63. Born on March 16, 1963, to Marianne “Ann” (Fitzgerald) Marley and Frederick Marley, Laura was a lifelong Newporter and the sixth of seven children. She was predeceased […]
Posted inCity & Government
Letter to the editor: Setting the record straight on the June 10 hotel resolution
Follow-up to June 10, 2026 City Council Discussion on Hotel Development I would like to clarify information presented during the June 10, 2026, Newport City Council meeting regarding Agenda Item #20, which concerned a resolution requesting a review of ordinances, zoning provisions, and land use regulations related to NEW hotel development within the City of […]
Posted inNews
South Kingstown police investigating fatal motorcycle crash on Route 1
A 28-year-old North Kingstown man died in a single-motorcycle crash on Route 1 on Tuesday night, the South Kingstown Police Department said. Officers responded at about 10:15 p.m. on June 16 to a report of a motorcycle crash on Route 1 northbound, south of Torrey Road. They found a single motorcycle involved in the crash, and […]
Posted inSports
Champions and rising stars set for Cerity Partners Hall of Fame Open in Newport
Defending women’s singles champion Caty McNally, 2025 women’s finalist Tatjana Maria and former Newport ATP finalists Alex Michelsen and Jenson Brooksby will headline the singles field for the Cerity Partners Hall of Fame Open, presented by the MARGARET Fund. New England’s only professional tennis tournament returns to the International Tennis Hall of Fame from July […]
Posted inCity & Government
Largest Rhode Island health care union endorses McKee, Matos for re-election
The United Nurses and Allied Professionals, Rhode Island’s largest health care workers’ union, has endorsed Gov. Dan McKee and Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos for re-election. The union, which represents more than 5,500 nurses, technologists, therapists and other frontline health care workers in the state, pointed to the administration’s role in keeping two community hospitals open. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Olympic medalist Elizabeth Beisel joins Kingston Chamber Music Festival’s 2026 season
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival will present its 38th season, “Life, Liberty, & Music,” from July 22 to Aug. 2 on the University of Rhode Island campus, highlighted by its first collaboration with Rhode Island native and Olympic medalist Elizabeth Beisel. While many Rhode Islanders know Beisel as a three-time Olympian and two-time Olympic medalist […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Fort Adams Trust marks Independence Week with July Fourth fireworks and veterans tribute
The Fort Adams Trust will mark Independence Week with three days of free public programming at Fort Adams State Park, anchored by its annual Fourth of July celebration overlooking Newport Harbor and continuing with tribute days honoring veterans and welcoming families. “There’s no better place to celebrate the Fourth than within the walls of one […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Belcourt to unveil first permanent display of Statue of Liberty artifacts on July 4
Belcourt of Newport will open the first permanent exhibition of original metal artifacts removed from the Statue of Liberty during her 1980s restoration on July 4, timing the unveiling to the 250th anniversary of American independence. The exhibition, “Bones of the Statue of Liberty: Structural Elements Removed During 1984-1986 Restoration,” marks the first time many […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Shawn P. Riley
Shawn P. Riley, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on June 9, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts. Born on December 5, 1973, in New London, Connecticut, Shawn lived a life marked by quiet strength. Shawn was known by all who knew him as a gentle giant-calm, easygoing, and always ready with a helping […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Judy Collins returns to Newport for one more night at the Jane Pickens
Judy Collins returned to Newport for one more visit to the Jane Pickens Theater, taking the stage in strong voice as she prepares to launch her “Sweet Judy Blue Eyes” farewell tour, which officially kicks off July 4 in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. The tour will run through the winter of 2027. While it marks her […]
Posted inCity & Government
Rhode Island property tax increases jumped in fiscal 2026, RIPEC analysis finds
Rhode Island property tax increases accelerated sharply in fiscal year 2026 amid rapid growth in property values and widening gaps among classes of taxpayers, according to a new analysis from the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council. The statewide municipal tax levy rose 3.7%, or $98.3 million, in fiscal 2026, the largest increase in a decade […]
Posted inNews
Kids Count – a look at Newport County Communities
The child population of Newport County is decreasing more than double the rate of the state of Rhode Island, while elementary and high school students are generally outperforming the rest of the state on standard testing for reading and math. These findings were included in Kids Count’s recently released community profiles. Kids Count, which advocates […]
Posted inNonprofit
Newport Polo’s 25th annual gala to benefit five youth-focused charities
The Newport Polo Foundation has announced the five beneficiaries of its 25th annual charity gala, a Great Gatsby-themed affair set for Friday, July 31, at Rosecliff Mansion on Bellevue Avenue. This year’s proceeds will benefit World Pediatrics, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County, TeamFAME, the Newport Historical Society and FabNewport, all organizations focused […]
Posted inColumns
Dr. Michael Fine: What’s crazy about sending a 102-year-old home from rehab on a Friday
A 102-year-old man I know is likely to be sent home from rehab today. This 102-year-old man lives in another state. Until three weeks ago, he was driving, playing tennis, and living in his own home. Over the last few months, he developed leg swelling and then shortness of breath, likely the result of some heart […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Classical Music Festival spotlights the piano in four July concerts
The Newport Classical Music Festival will spotlight the piano this summer with four featured concerts, part of a festival running July 2-19 that includes 30 concerts across 11 venues. The piano series brings several of today’s sought-after performers to Newport’s mansions and historic spaces. Tchaikovsky Competition prizewinner Dmitry Shishkin opens the series July 3 at […]
Posted inInstagram
Rogers High School celebrates Class of 2026 at Toppa Field graduation
Rogers High School’s Class of 2026 crossed the stage at Toppa Field on Wednesday evening, marking the close of their high school careers in a ceremony that blended tradition, music and reflection. The graduation, held June 11 at 6 p.m., brought together graduates, families, faculty and city officials to honor the achievements of Newport’s newest […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Princess June Band wins 2026 LeRoy White ‘Soul & Conscience Award’
The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County has named the Princess June Band the winner of the 2026 LeRoy White “Soul & Conscience Award,” presented in partnership with the White family. The $5,000 award, now in its fourth year, honors musicians who embody the character of LeRoy White, the Newport musician who built a […]
Posted inNews
Sweet Berry Farm withdraws development proposal, weighs smaller-scale plan
Sweet Berry Farm has withdrawn its application for a major development project at its Mitchell’s Lane property and is stepping back to consider a smaller-scale plan, the farm and the Aquidneck Island Land Trust said this week. The farm announced the decision in a statement posted to Facebook on Tuesday, telling supporters it had chosen […]
Posted inNews
Sail Newport to dedicate racing education center in memory of Jason Titunik
Sail Newport will dedicate the building at 60 Fort Adams Drive as the Jason Titunik Racing Education Center in a ceremony Wednesday, June 24, at 2 p.m. The building, located at the sailing center in Fort Adams State Park, was Sail Newport’s original main office and has recently been fully remodeled for use by racing […]
Posted inEnvironment & Health
Rhode Island issues another air quality alert for Thursday
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has issued a statewide air quality alert for Thursday, June 11, forecasting ground-level ozone that will reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. It is the third such alert the department has issued in under a week, as a stretch of warm summer weather continues to drive elevated ozone. […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Narragansett Beer marks 21 years since its revival with June 24 taproom party
Narragansett Beer will celebrate 21 years since its revival with a birthday party at its Providence taproom on June 24, marking the date in 2005 when founder Mark Hellendrung and a group of Rhode Island investors reacquired the iconic New England brand. The celebration at the Fox Point taproom will feature the release of a […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jane Pickens Theater to host Rhode Island premiere of ‘Mermaid’ with star Johnny Pemberton
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center will host the Rhode Island premiere of “Mermaid,” a SXSW selection, on Friday, June 12, with a special in-person appearance by the film’s star, actor and comedian Johnny Pemberton. After the screening, Pemberton will join a live onstage discussion and audience Q&A moderated by Rhode Island filmmakers the […]
Posted inNews
Pell Center survey links authoritarian attitudes to support for democratic norm violations
A new national survey from Salve Regina University’s Pell Center finds that Americans who score highest on a measure of authoritarian attitudes are the most likely to support political actions that violate democratic norms, even as such support remains relatively low across the population overall. The survey, directed by Pell Center Associate Director and Fellow […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Anthony E. “Tony” Faria
We are saddened to announce the passing of Anthony E. Faria Jr., known fondly as Tony or Squeaky, who left us peacefully on May 31, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on June 21, 1947, in Newport, RI, Tony made his home in Portsmouth, RI where he built a life filled with love, hard […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council agenda for June 10 includes proposals on hotels, housing and tree preservation
The Newport City Council will meet Wednesday, June 10, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 43 Broadway, with a long agenda spanning policy resolutions, special event licenses and presentations from the city manager. Several resolutions sponsored by Councilor Steph Smyth are likely to draw attention. One would direct the city to […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Joy Elliott McClintock
Joy Elliott McClintock, 96, formerly of Portsmouth, RI and Blenheim-Newport in Middletown, RI passed away on June 6, 2026, after a brief residence at Village House Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Newport, RI. She was the wife of the late Lt. Cmdr. Michael McClintock, Sr., USN and sister to the late Sybil Affleck of Brisbane, […]
Posted inInstagram
Providence-Newport ferry service returns Friday with weekend stops in Bristol
Seastreak’s seasonal ferry service between Providence and Newport returns Friday, June 12, with multiple trips daily and weekend service to Bristol, the company announced. The one-hour route, run in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, offers passengers views of lighthouses, the Newport Pell Bridge and the Providence port. Adult fares start at $12 […]
Posted inCity & Government
Chamber’s Politics & Pancakes returns June 23 with finance chairmen Abney, DiPalma
The Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce will host its next Politics & Pancakes event Tuesday, June 23, at Ochre Court, featuring the two lawmakers who chair the General Assembly’s finance committees. House Finance Chairman Rep. Marvin L. Abney and Senate Finance Chairman Sen. Louis P. DiPalma are slated to speak to the local business community […]