Posted inCity & Government

18-year-old Middletown man arrested by State Police on drug charges

The Rhode Island State Police reported the arrest of Justice L. Conner, age 18, of Middletown, Rhode Island, on Friday, December 29, 2023, at 12:17 AM. Conner was arrested for manufacture/sell/possession with intent to manufacture/sell Schedule I-II (Cocaine) — 1 Ounce to 1 Kilogram and obstructing an officer in the execution of duty. The arrest […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island Road Report: Dec. 30 – Jan. 6

Here are the weekly road construction reports from the Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority (RITBA) and Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT). All schedules are weather-dependent. Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority December 31, 2023 – January 6, 2024 Newport Claiborne Pell BridgeUpcoming improvements in the roadway between the old toll plaza and the bridge […]

Posted inReal Estate

On the Market:  New home for the New Year – Newport County Open Houses this weekend

As we bid farewell to 2023, Newport County invites you to explore 9 Open Houses this weekend.  Limited inventory continues to be a challenge for many prospective homebuyers, and until the supply and demand dynamic changes that will continue to be the case.  Right now there are currently 183 properties available for sale in Newport […]

Posted inNews

$1 Million Powerball Drawing: Meet the Newport man who could win big on New Year’s Eve

Update – January 2, 2024: Newport resident Finton Wallace, who was one of five finalists for Powerball’s $1 million grand prize during the broadcast of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024, wasn’t the lucky winner. Pamela Bradshaw of North Carolina won the $1 million, drawn just after midnight. For five years […]

Posted inBusiness

Vanderbilt Rehabilitation Center reaccredited by CARF

The Lifespan Vanderbilt Rehabilitation Center at Newport Hospital has been re-accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, according to a statement from the hospital on Thursday. The re-accreditation will extend through June of 2026 and applies to the adult inpatient and adult stroke specialty programs. It is part of what makes the center […]

Posted inCity & Government, News

Workers in New England states looking forward to a bump up in minimum wages in 2024

By STEVE LeBLANC Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — Workers in several New England states are looking forward to a bump up in the minimum wage in 2024 while advocates in Massachusetts are pushing a ballot question aimed at phasing out the state’s subminimum wage of $6.75 per hour for tipped workers. In Rhode Island, the […]

Posted inBusiness

Construction is underway for NOAA Marine Operations Center in Newport

Construction began this month on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Marine Operations Center in Newport. The center will serve as the home for NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations in the Atlantic region. The U.S. Navy awarded the $147 million contract for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The project is […]

Posted inObituaries

Obituary: Christopher Browe

Christopher Browe, 63, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away unexpectedly on December 22, 2023. Christopher was born September 1, 1960, in Newport, RI to Gerald C Browe and Eleanor. Christopher was a lifelong resident of Middletown, RI graduating from Middletown High School and later from University of RI with a bachelor’s in chemical engineering. Chris […]

Posted inCity & Government, News

RIPTA ends free rides in Central Falls, Pawtucket

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) will conclude its pilot program that aimed to increase public transportation ridership by offering free rides in Central Falls and Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center. The pilot program, launched in March 2022, will conclude on December 31, 2023. During this time, a virtual boundary (geofence) was created around Central […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island Road Report: Dec. 23 – 30

Here are the weekly road construction reports from the Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority (RITBA) and Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT). All schedules are weather-dependent. Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority December 24 – 30, 2023 Newport Claiborne Pell Bridge Upcoming improvements in the roadway between the old toll plaza and the bridge which […]

Posted inColumns

Just My Opinion: It’s time the state addresses doctor shortage

It’s no secret that Rhode Island is suffering from a primary care physician shortage, leaving many in the state finding their primary care now left to physicians’ assistants and nurse practitioners. While it’s a problem nationwide, a WalletHub report earlier this year, which was quoted extensively, ranks Rhode Island 50th in healthcare. When a longtime […]

Posted inCity & Government

Senator Reed: NDAA signed into law with key wins for Rhode Island

President Joe Biden signed the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY 24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), annual defense authorization bill into law yesterday, confirming the largest raise in military basic pay in decades for servicemembers and the Department of Defense civilian workforce.  The NDAA bolsters the defense industrial base and military readiness, providing the U.S. military […]

Posted inCity & Government

Governor McKee and First Lady wish residents a Merry Christmas

Governor Dan McKee and First Lady Susan McKee released a statement on Friday wishing everyone in Rhode Island a wonderful and happy Christmas. In their statement, the McKee family said, “Christmas has so many meanings for so many different people. For our family, it’s always been a time for celebrating togetherness, reminiscing on traditions created […]

Posted inNews

Contrary to politicians’ claims, offshore wind farms don’t kill whales. Here’s what to know.

By CHRISTINA LARSON, JENNIFER McDERMOTT, PATRICK WHITTLE and WAYNE PARRY Associated Press PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Unfounded claims about offshore wind threatening whales have surfaced as a flashpoint in the fight over the future of renewable energy. In recent months, conservatives including former President Donald Trump have claimed construction of offshore wind turbines is killing […]

Posted inReal Estate

On the Market: Check out these Open Houses this weekend, Christmas Edition 

Home for the Holidays has a nice ring to it!  With Christmas on the horizon, there is a smaller-than-usual lineup of open houses here in Newport County.  Mark your calendar and explore these exceptional homes this weekend:  CLICK HERE TO SEE THIS WEEKEND’S OPEN HOUSES Saturday, December 23rd, 2023: 59 Seaside Drive, Jamestown Type: Single […]

Posted inCity & Government

RIDOT provides an update on Pell Bridge Ramps and Aquidneck Avenue construction projects

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) provided the following two weekly updates on Aquidneck Island road construction projects today. Pell Bridge Ramps Phase 2, Newport Since we permanently closed the old Downtown Newport exit on Friday, December 8, motorists have been following the signs and becoming accustomed to the new traffic pattern. Next week, […]

Posted inNews

Fourteen Rhode Island farms get $256K in grants for clean energy upgrades

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announced the recipients of $256,000 in grants to fund renewable energy and energy efficiency projects on 14 farms across the state. “Our farmers provide Rhode Islanders with fresh, nutritious foods and local products,” said Governor Dan McKee. “It is important that we continue to support these small businesses […]

Posted inCity & Government

DEM lifts Blue-Green Algae Advisories for bodies of water in Warwick, Glocester, Cranston, South Kingstown

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and the Rhode Island Department of Health have issued a statement recommending the lifting of recreational advisories for several bodies of water that were found to have high levels of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria. The advisories were issued for Waterman Reservoir in Glocester/Greenville, Little Pond in […]

Posted inNews

MLK Center, Newport Pride among nonprofits to receive grants for services to LGBTQ communities

Several local organizations serving the LGBTQIA+ community will receive grants as part of $90,000 in grant money awarded by the Rhode Island Foundation. The grants will be distributed as part of the foundation’s Equity Action Fund, which aims to support services for the LGBTQI+ community across Rhode Island. The grants are being awarded to 15 […]

Posted inNews

NUWC Division Newport’s annual Toys for Tots drive nets nearly 1,200 donations

Story by Public Affairs Office , Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport  NEWPORT, R.I. – ’Tis the season for giving, and the workforce at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport did its part once again to spread some holiday joy. There were toy cars, a microscope and board games. There was a basketball, large stuffed […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Meet the cast of Moulin Rouge! – Playing PPAC through December 31

Looking for some vacation week fun or a last-minute Christmas gift?  Look no further than the Tony Award-winning musical Moulin Rouge!, playing at the Providence Performing Arts Center through December 31. Tickets are still available here for most performances of the stage show, based on Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 2001 film which starred Nicole Kidman and […]

Posted inNews

Rhode Island Delegation pushes for Disaster Aid after storm

After a severe storm ripped through Rhode Island earlier this week, the state’s congressional delegation traveled to Washington, D.C., and urged President Biden to approve federal disaster aid for the state. In a statement, the delegation said the federal government must quickly approve any request from Rhode Island to support emergency operations and accelerate recovery […]

Posted inNews

Two Rhode Island men charged with assault and battery in death of Patriots fan

BOSTON (AP) — Two Rhode Island men have been charged with assault and battery and disorderly conduct by Foxborough Police in connection with the recent death of a fan at a New England Patriots game. John Vieira, 59, and Justin Mitchell, 39, both of Warwick, R.I., were charged earlier this month after investigators said they punched 53-year-old […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island officials urge the public to celebrate responsibly and avoid impaired driving this holiday season

With the holiday season in full swing, Rhode Island officials say they’re cracking down on impaired driving. On Thursday, public safety leaders from around the state came together to deliver a clear message about the risks of driving under the influence. “Ensuring that everyone who lives, works, and visits Providence feels safe is my top […]

Posted inNews

‘Santa Claus for a Cause’ moves Four Hearts Foundation closer to Portsmouth Playground goal

On Saturday (December 16), the Four Hearts Foundation hosted its second annual “Santa Claus for a Cause” fundraiser at the Newport Car Museum in Portsmouth, R.I. The foundation is working toward building an inclusive, adaptive and accessible playground for all abilities and all ages on Turnpike Avenue in Portsmouth. Kateri Chappell Buerman, who runs the […]

Posted inMusic & Entertainment

What’s Up this weekend in Newport: Dec. 22 – 24

Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in and around Newport this weekend. Friday, December 22 THINGS TO DO Christmas in Newport throughout Newport Holidays at the Newport Mansions 3 pm: Aloha Couples Retreat Tasting at Recharge Newport 4:30 pm: Sparkling Lights at The Breakers: An Outdoor Magical Wonderland 8 pm: Improv with the Bit Players at The […]

Posted inNews

BankRI’s Holiday Giving Tree collects 7,576 gifts for Rhode Island kids

Thanks to the generosity of Bank Rhode Island (BankRI) customers, staff, and the community, the holiday season has been made brighter for underprivileged children across the Ocean State. The Bank’s Holiday Giving Tree program, which recently concluded, led to an incredible 7,576 donated gifts. It is the most gifts ever collected in the program’s 26-year […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council to host a joint workshop with Newport School Committee on Jan. 3

Members of Newport City Council and Newport School Committee will get together for a joint City Council and School Committee Workshop on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. According to a notice of the workshop provided by the City Clerk, the workshop’s focus will be “student data presentation.” The meeting, which is open to the public, is […]

Posted inBusiness

RIAC’s Brittany Morgan honored by Airport Business Magazine

Brittany Morgan, the chief legal counsel and chief of staff of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC), has been named one of the top 40 under 40 in the aviation industry by Airport Business Magazine. The magazine’s “40 under 40” list, published annually, recognizes up-and-coming professionals who positively impact the aviation system. “This recognition is […]

Posted inBusiness

NUWC Division Newport, NAVSEA representatives meet with small businesses to discuss technology needs

Story by Public Affairs Office , Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport  NEWPORT, R.I. – Representatives from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport and the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) recently met face-to-face with small technology business owners to discuss how the two can work together by utilizing the U.S. Navy’s Small Business Innovation Research […]

Posted inCity & Government

How drunk driving fatalities in Rhode Island compare to the rest of the US

There were an estimated 42,795 fatalities due to motor vehicle crashes in 2022, down by 0.3% from the year prior, according to early estimates released in April 2023 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While a reduction in crash-related deaths, even one as slight as this, is generally positive, the facts remain deeply concerning: […]

Posted inCity & Government

Governor McKee issues Declaration of Disaster Emergency after storms

Governor Dan McKee has issued a Declaration of Disaster Emergency for Rhode Island in the wake of severe storms this week that caused widespread flooding, power outages, and damage to homes and businesses. The declaration will help the state coordinate recovery efforts and potentially make federal aid available when needed, McKee said. “Cities and towns […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Tiverton Library’s January Calendar: Creativity, Tech, & Lifelong Learning

The Tiverton Public Library has announced a comprehensive calendar of programs for adults in January, offering opportunities for creativity, technical skill, and lifelong learning. All month long, the library is offering one-on-one tech help to help residents with questions or complex problems. Appointments are available by calling 401-625-6796 ext. 8 or through the online scheduling […]

Posted inCity & Government

Phase 1 of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program launches in Rhode Island

Governor Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, have announced the commencement of the Phase 1 projects of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. This phase focuses on installing electric vehicle DC Fast Chargers […]

Posted inMusic & Entertainment

What’sUpNewp, JPT to host their annual National Lampoon Christmas Vacation Party on Dec. 20 & 21

What’sUpNewp and The JPT are teaming up once again to host our annual National Lampoon Christmas Vacation Party! Our awesome Christmas tradition has become so popular we’re doing back-to-back nights of the Grizwolds this year – on Wednesday, December 20 and Thursday, December 21! Your ticket includes an awesome pre-film concert by David Tessier’s All Star Stars (both nights) that […]

Posted inNews

Get the latest Newport news straight to your inbox! Sign up for What’sUpNewp’s free newsletter today!

Are you looking for the latest news, events, and happenings in Newport? Look no further than What’sUpNewp’s free newsletter! Our daily newsletter lets you stay up-to-date on everything happening in our vibrant community. We’ve got you covered, from local politics and business news to arts and entertainment. Plus, as a subscriber, you’ll receive exclusive access […]

Posted inNews

Three charged with disorderly conduct in Newport on Tuesday

Three people were charged with disorderly conduct in Newport on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, according to an Arrest log provided by the Newport Police Department. Police said 43-year-old Michael Gillette, whose address was not disclosed, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with domestic disorderly conduct and domestic – simple assault or battery. 55-year-old Craig Costa […]

Posted inBusiness

BankNewport awards $115,000 in grants to 31 Rhode Island charities

BankNewport has announced that it has recently awarded more than $115,000 to 31 local charities that address basic needs, food insecurity, education, children and families, arts and culture and healthy lives. “Rhode Island is home to a myriad of organizations dedicated to providing essential services to our communities, particularly for those facing the greatest challenges,” […]

Posted inNews

Schedule Change: RIDOT to begin offering free ferry service between Bristol and Providence on Dec. 21

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) today announced that because of a mechanical issue with a crane being used to position a floating dock for passengers to embark and disembark at the ferry terminal at India Point Park in Providence, the first day of ferry service will now begin on Thursday, December 21. RIDOT […]

Posted inCity & Government

Aquidneck Island communities seek residents’ input on internet connectivity

As part of a statewide initiative to provide more affordable broadband internet to the entire state, Newport and other Aquidneck Island communities seek residents’ input on internet connectivity. The Aquidneck Island Broadband Consortium (AIBC), a partnership between the City of Newport, the Towns of Middletown and Portsmouth, and the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce, is […]

Posted inNews

$30K grant to support tractor shed at Portsmouth AgInnovation Farm

A $28,200 grant from the Champlin Foundation and a $2,000 grant from BankNewport will support the construction of a tractor shed at the Portsmouth AgInnovation Farm. The AgInnovation Farm is a student-driven collaboration between the Portsmouth School District and the Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District (ERICD), where participants problem-solve through authentication learning and community collaboration […]

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