The Coast Guard Cutter Campbell returned to Naval Station Newport on Monday after a 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage, according to the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. The 270-foot cutter deployed to support Operation Vigilant Sentry, according to the Coast Guard, which said the mission focused on preventing unlawful maritime entry […]
Rhode Island
Salve Regina to stage immersive musical at Ochre Court
Salve Regina University will present an immersive production of the contemporary musical “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” Nov. 5-9 at Ochre Court, the Gilded Age mansion at the heart of the university’s campus. The show, which originally starred Josh Groban on Broadway, is based loosely on 70 pages of Leo Tolstoy’s “War […]
Good news for Revolution Wind. Bad news for Rhode Island union painters
Orimartin Lima’s graduation from a weeklong offshore wind safety training program last Friday was bittersweet. The completion of the global certification through the Community College of Rhode Island was supposed to lead directly to a union job with the Revolution Wind project. But instead of shipping out to sea to climb towering turbines in Rhode […]
Obituary: Dennis C Silvia
Dennis C. Silvia, 73, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family. Born on July 6, 1952, in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Dennis was the son of the late Charles and Gertrude Silvia. Dennis was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Marie Bacon; his brother, Christopher; and his granddaughter, Danarya Camara. He is survived […]
Bobby Cowsill to perform at historic Belmont Chapel
Bobby Cowsill, a founding member of the iconic 1960s pop group the Cowsills, will perform at Belmont Chapel at Island Cemetery for two intimate evenings in December. The performances are scheduled for 6 p.m. Dec. 4 and 5 at the chapel, located at 30 Warner Street in Newport. The Cowsills, who served as the real-life […]
Quonset Business Park reaches 15,000-job milestone
The Quonset Business Park now employs more than 15,000 workers, a milestone state officials celebrated Monday at an event marking two decades of growth at the industrial complex. Gov. Dan McKee joined federal and state leaders at Hayward Industries to announce the employment figure, which represents growth of more than 3,000 jobs since January 2021 […]
Letter to the Editor: Medicare dis-advantage
The federal government could have fixed the gaps in traditional government-run Medicare and created an improved Medicare for All single payer program, but instead, paid private middlemen billions to offer Medicare Advantage plans. Seniors were lured into buying heavily advertised, “cheaper,” heavily subsidized Medicare Advantage plans while the private corporations that offered these plans saw their […]
Newport Mental Health named regional access point for housing support
Newport Mental Health has been designated a Regional Access Point by the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing, becoming part of a new statewide network aimed at preventing and ending homelessness. Regional Access Points are community-based hubs that help individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of losing their homes. The primary goals […]
State officials warn public to avoid Upper Melville Pond due to harmful algae bloom
State health and environmental officials are urging the public to stay away from Upper Melville Pond after confirming a harmful cyanobacteria bloom in the Portsmouth waterbody. The Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued the advisory Monday, warning that swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking pose health risks at the […]
Obituary: John Duarte
Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend John Anthony “Biff” Duarte, a proud Vietnam War Veteran and beloved husband of the late Lois Jean Duarte, passed away peacefully in Newport, Rhode Island, on October 18, 2025. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, to the late John Joseph Duarte and Irene Facey, Biff exemplified courage, loyalty, and resilience […]
CCRI hosting cybersecurity pathways and practices at Newport campus
The Community College of Rhode Island will host Cybersecurity Pathways and Practices, a free public event exploring real-world pathways into the growing field of cybersecurity, Wednesday at its Newport County Campus. The event, scheduled for 6 p.m. at One John H. Chafee Blvd., will feature a panel of industry professionals sharing their personal journeys into […]
Obituary: Matthew J. Finn
Matthew Joseph Finn, 71, passed away peacefully at home in Newport RI on October 25, 2025. He was born and raised in Newport’s Fifth Ward, the oldest of six children of the late Helen Murphy Finn and Matthew Henry Finn. Matt attended St. Augustin’s School, and he graduated from Rogers High School in 1972. He […]
Drake Maye throws 3 TDs as Patriots overcome Myles Garrett’s 5-sack game in 32-13 win over Browns
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel wanted to add energy in Gillette Stadium after watching his team lose two of its first three games at home to open the season. He did it by bringing back individual pregame introductions for the first time since 2001. It might have been exactly the […]
Recent college graduates face uncertain job prospects
As the job market tightens, employment prospects for recent college graduates is more challenging, and in some cases frightening. College graduates are increasingly fearful of unemployment, stagnant wages, and uncertain career paths, as unemployment in New England, from August to August, has increased from 3.6 percent to 4.1 percent. “The thought of working and never […]
Rhode Island beats Bryant 38-17 with strong performances from Buchanan, Gaines, and Winowich
SMITHFIELD, R.I. (AP) — Marquis Buchanan and Greg Gaines III combined for 216 yards receiving, Chase Winowich ran for a pair of touchdowns, and Ayinde Johnson scored a pick-6 to lead Rhode Island to a 38-17 victory over Bryant on Saturday. Buchanan had a 64-yard grab and finished with 124 yards. Gaines had six catches […]
Obituary: Robert Leno
Robert “Bob” Leno, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on October 8, 2025, in Newport, Rhode Island. Born on August 16, 1943, in Hardwick, Vermont, Bob lived a full life marked by determination, hard work, and deep love for his family. Bob’s education began in local schools in Vermont, but it was […]
Dr. Michael Fine: What’s crazy about COVID-19 and the flu vaccine now
I had a COVID-19 vaccine last week. I’m traveling in 10 days and wanted to make sure I don’t get sick when I’m traveling. Better safe than sorry – better jabbed than stuck in a hotel room for five extra days, unable to go out. Or hospitalized. The COVID-19 vaccine was easy to get and […]
Obituary: Zane Anderson
Zane Jacob Anderson died peacefully on the morning of October 17th, weeks shy of his 92nd birthday. Born in Stanhope, New Jersey on the evening of November 29, 1933, to Helene (Hammer) and Albert Frank Anderson, Zane grew up in Port Morris, New Jersey with his sisters Dawn and Jane. Albert died in 1947. His […]
Brunson scores 31 points, Knicks ride huge 2nd quarter to 105-95 victory over the Celtics
By BRIAN MAHONEY AP Basketball Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson scored 31 points, Karl-Anthony Towns had 26 points and 13 rebounds and the New York Knicks rode a huge second quarter to a 105-95 victory over the Boston Celtics on Friday night and a 2-0 start to the season. The Knicks outscored the […]
Woman who escaped from boat fire off Cape Cod with her husband and son dies at a hospital
By MICHAEL CASEY Associated Press Asleep on their boat anchored off Cape Cod, the Sullivan family was awaken to their dogs barking, the sound of fireworks and smoke. Their boat was on fire. Tyler Sullivan and his parents jumped from the boat Monday night and, in the darkness, began swimming to a privately-owned island. Tyler […]
Heritage Restaurant Group acquires Crisp Restaurant Group, adds Providence Coal Fired Pizza and Union Station Brewery
The Heritage Restaurant Group announced Friday it will acquire Crisp Restaurant Group, including Providence Coal Fired Pizza’s two locations and Union Station Brewery in downtown Providence. The transaction is expected to close within 90 days, subject to due diligence and approval processes. The acquisition marks Heritage Group’s strategic expansion into the Providence market, coming one […]
What’s happening this weekend in Newport: Oct. 24-26
Discover all that’s happening for live music, entertainment, and events this weekend in and around Newport. Organizing an event? Add it to What’sUpNewp’s event calendar. Friday, Oct. 24 Things To Do 12:30 p.m.: Miantonomi Park Reforestation at Miantonomi Memorial Park 5 p.m.: Grimm’s Fairy Trails at Paradise Valley Park 5:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.: Halloween […]
42 open houses scheduled across Newport County this weekend
Good morning and happy Friday! This weekend, 42 homes across Newport County are hosting Open Houses and here at WhatsUpNewp, I have compiled a full list and link so you can plan your weekend tours accordingly. It’s a great opportunity to explore what’s available across Jamestown, Middletown, Portsmouth, Newport, Tiverton, and Little Compton, whether you’re […]
Yagi Noodles teams up with Rejects Beer Co. for punk rock-fueled party
This Sunday, Oct. 26, Yagi Noodles is trading its usual dinner service for something a bit louder and a lot more rebellious. The popular Long Wharf Mall noodle spot is hosting a cocktail party in collaboration with Rejects Beer Co. and Fortune Tattoos, bringing together Asian street food, craft beer, live punk rock vinyl spins […]
Obituary: Helen Ikola Fiske
Born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, Helen was the daughter of the late Aina (Pollary) and Waino K. Ikola. She was married to the late Robert W. Allen and later to the late Eugene Fiske. She was the devoted mother of Ronald Allen (Carol) of Coventry, RI, and Debra Barrett of Westport, MA, and was predeceased by […]
Woman-led organizations prepare Rhode Island for historic 2026
When Discover Newport extends an invitation, I rearrange my schedule to attend. Newport’s equivalent of a local tourism board (which was recently awarded several “Best of’ Awards)’s monthly, off-peak Marketing Meeting is a gathering I never miss. When the topic is both steeped in Rhode Island’s history and outlining and educating us on our state’s […]
Coast Guard suspends plan to remove New England navigational aids
Rhode Island legislators welcomed the U.S. Coast Guard’s decision this week to suspend a plan that would have removed hundreds of navigational buoys along New England’s coast, including dozens marking hazards in Rhode Island waters. The Coast Guard announced Tuesday it was pausing its buoy modernization plan after receiving more than 3,200 public comments, according […]
Portsmouth High School homecoming parade to close roads Saturday
Several roads will be closed Saturday afternoon for Portsmouth High School’s annual homecoming parade. The parade will begin at approximately 12:30 p.m. and is expected to conclude by 1 p.m., according to a notice from the town. The parade will start on East Main Road at Patriots Drive and travel south on East Main Road […]
Coast Guard audio captures stranded family’s mayday call. ‘Our ship burned while we were sleeping’
GOSNOLD, Mass. (AP) — Three family members who swam to a private island when their boat caught fire and sank were rescued two days later after their marine radio washed ashore. “Mayday, mayday, mayday! Our ship went down in Tarpaulin’s Cove!” Tyler Sullivan told a Coast Guard dispatcher early Wednesday morning. “Our ship burned while […]
Heritage Restaurant Group to acquire Scales & Shells
The Heritage Restaurant Group announced Thursday that it will acquire Scales & Shells, the seafood restaurant at 527/537 Thames St., which has been a downtown Newport fixture for nearly 40 years. The transaction is expected to close within 90 days, subject to due diligence and approval processes. Heritage Group, a Newport-based restaurant and hospitality operator, will take […]
Letter to the Editor: Let’s wake up to Newport’s cyber opportunity
To the Editor: Newport’s youth continue to sit on top of one of the most promising career opportunities of our time — cybersecurity — yet our community has barely begun to acknowledge it. Recent media stories have featured the opening of Rhode Island College’s advanced class cyber simulation lab where students learn to counter real […]
Prudence Island water association receives $100,000 grant for system upgrades
The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank has closed on a $100,000 loan with full principal forgiveness for the Prudence Park Water Association to install new pressure tanks and a flow meter, officials announced Thursday. The grant will fund critical infrastructure improvements for the small, nonprofit public drinking water system on Prudence Island’s west side. The system […]
Tiverton police launch online crime mapping tool
The Tiverton Police Department has launched a new community crime mapping page on its website, providing residents with an interactive tool to view recent police activity and general crime trends. The department announced the launch Wednesday on its Facebook page, describing the initiative as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency, public engagement and awareness […]
Obituary: Diane Dutra
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Diane Marie (McGee) Dutra who left us peacefully at the age of 81 on October 15th, 2025. She was the wife of the late Paul Costa Dutra for 57 years. Diane lived a life centered on love and family. Her happiest moments […]
Rhode Island’s congressional delegation asks to forgo pay during shutdown
All four members of Rhode Island’s congressional delegation have asked to have their congressional pay withheld for the duration of the federal government shutdown in a show of solidarity with federal workers.Democratic U.S. Sens. Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Reps. Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo all announced Wednesday afternoon that they intend to […]
Cities with the most expensive homes in Rhode Island
Purchasing a home is one of the most important investments there is. More than a place to live, homeownership is an asset with the potential to tremendously rise in value. But with home prices reaching record heights, affordability plays a huge role for buyers. The typical home value in the United States was $364,891 in […]
Maxey scores 40 points as 76ers rally to beat Celtics 117-116
BOSTON (AP) — Tyrese Maxey scored 40 points and VJ Edgecombe added 34 in his NBA debut to help the Philadelphia 76ers rally to beat the Boston Celtics 117-116 in their season opener Wednesday night. Edgecombe scored the most points in an NBA debut since Wilt Chamberlain had 43 on Oct. 24, 1959. Philadelphia led […]
Family rescued after being stranded on small island off Cape Cod after boat caught fire
WOODS HOLE, Mass. (AP) — A family was rescued Wednesday by the Coast Guard off Cape Cod after their 30-foot pleasure boat caught fire and they were forced to swim to a small island where they sheltered in a barn for almost two days. When the mother, father and their son didn’t return as expected […]
Rhode Island in recession since December, economist says
Rhode Island is in a recession … and likely has been since last December, according to University of Rhode Island economist Leonard Lardaro. “The time for equivocation has come to an end,” Lardaro wrote, commenting on his monthly Current Conditions Index. “RHODE ISLAND IS IN A RECESSION.” His view may not be shared regionally and […]
Rhode Island food pantries slammed as SNAP beneficiaries brace for funding to run dry
Six hundred dollars can’t cover an entire month of groceries for Yolanda Robertson’s family of five. But it’s a critical piece of how the 36-year-old single mom can put food on the table. Or at least, it was. Robertson is among the 42 million low-income people nationwide, including 140,000 Rhode Islanders, who stand to lose […]
Record 29.4 million visitors traveled to Rhode Island in 2024, spent $6 billion
Rhode Island welcomed 29.4 million visitors in 2024, marking a 3.7% increase over the previous year and representing a new record for the state, according to data released Wednesday by Governor Dan McKee and Rhode Island Commerce. The visitors spent $6 billion throughout the state, a 7% increase from 2023, according to research conducted by […]
Teton Gravity Research brings ‘Pressure Drop’ ski film to Newport
Ski and snowboard enthusiasts will have a chance to experience Teton Gravity Research’s latest film when “Pressure Drop” screens at the Jane Pickens Theater on Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 7:30 p.m. The screening marks the 30th anniversary of Teton Gravity Research, which was founded in 1995 by Steve Jones, Todd Jones and Dirk Collins using […]
Obituary: Dolores Petrush-Tarlton
Dolores Petrush-Tarlton, 73, of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, died on October 20, 2025. She was the wife of Scott J. Tarlton. Born in Passaic, NJ on June 1, 1952, she was the daughter of Edward and Anna (Olko) Petrush. Dolores grew up in Saddle Brook, New Jersey and graduated from Fairleigh-Dickinson University. She was a registered […]
Gov. McKee opens applications for $81M in housing bond programs
Governor Dan McKee and Housing Secretary Deborah Goddard on Tuesday announced the opening of applications for the first wave of programs funded by Rhode Island’s $120 million housing bond, with $81 million now available to municipalities and developers. The bond, approved by voters in 2024, aims to address the state’s housing crisis by expanding homeownership […]
Best NFL players born in Rhode Island
Football has long been woven into the cultural fabric of America, and every state has produced its share of gridiron legends. From Hall of Fame quarterbacks to record-setting receivers and defensive stalwarts, some of the NFL’s greatest talents trace their roots back to Rhode Island. Using data from Pro Football Reference, Stacker compiled a ranking […]
St. John’s tops Big East preseason poll for 1st time since 1991
By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Rick Pitino doesn’t put much stock in his St. John’s team being No. 1 in the Big East Conference preseason poll for the first time in three decades. “I really don’t pay too much attention to prognosticating because especially in this day and age, I […]
Alan Doyle to perform at JPT Film & Event Center in April
Spectacle Live will present Alan Doyle with special guests Bandits on the Run on Friday, April 25, at 8 p.m. at The JPT Film & Event Center. Doyle, a 14-time JUNO Award nominee and former member of acclaimed folk-pop group Great Big Sea, is touring in support of his fourth full-length solo studio album and […]
Rhode Island youth climate conference set for Nov. 8 at Roger Williams Park Zoo
Rhode Island teenagers will gather at Roger Williams Park Zoo on Nov. 8 for a daylong climate action conference designed to empower young leaders to tackle environmental challenges in their communities. The Rhode Island Youth Climate Conference, hosted by the Rhode Island Environmental Education Association, will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is […]
Ringling Bros. circus returns to Providence in May 2026
The circus is coming back to town. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey announced Tuesday that “The Greatest Show On Earth” will return to Providence for six performances at Amica Mutual Pavilion from May 29-31, 2026. Tickets are now on sale for the reimagined production, which promises a high-energy, music-driven experience featuring 65 world-class performers […]
What sold last week in Newport County: Oct. 13-17
According to data from the Statewide MLS, 15 properties sold across Newport County last week, spanning a range of price points and property types. Sales included single-family homes, condominiums, and multi-family properties, reflecting continued buyer engagement across multiple market segments. Inventory, though improving, is still historically low, and for those considering a sale before the […]
Counties with the most pre-war homes in Rhode Island
Pre-war homes—those built before 1939—are architectural gems. They are sturdy, charming, and often what people are referring to when they look at the prevalent colorless, linear designs of today and lament “they just don’t make them like they used to.” In some ways, that’s a good thing. Pre-war homes often contained materials we know to […]
Rail Explorers celebrates one-millionth rider with lesson in aging well
On Friday, October 17, a simple, joy-filled celebration took place in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, as Rail Explorers marked its one-millionth ride. This achievement represents more than a milestone–it reflects how we can still find wonder in new experiences, the beauty of nature, and the shared happiness that comes from doing something together in the open […]
Brad Read captures DF95 National Championship in Newport sibling showdown
Brad Read of Middletown outlasted his younger brother Ken in a three-day battle to win the DF95 National Championship on Sunday, completing 14 races of remote-controlled sailing at Sail Newport. The victory came down to the final day of competition, with Brad holding off Ken by three points. Brian Shores of Lakewood, Texas, finished third, […]
International Tennis Hall of Fame adds eight to Board of Governors
The International Tennis Hall of Fame announced Monday it will welcome eight new members to its Board of Governors in 2026, bringing diverse expertise from business, philanthropy and the tennis industry. Three current board members were also appointed to the 24-member Executive Board, which helps guide the nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving tennis history and […]
New PBS docuseries ‘Ocean State’ explores Rhode Island’s marine wonders
Rhode Island’s coastal waters are getting the nature documentary treatment they deserve. Ocean State Media and The Nature Conservancy announced Friday that filming has begun on “Ocean State,” a four-part PBS docuseries showcasing the remarkable marine ecosystems off Rhode Island’s coast, with special attention to the biodiversity hotspot surrounding Block Island. The series, produced by […]
Jamestown Arts Center to screen rare David Lynch short films Oct. 29
The Jamestown Arts Center will present a collection of rarely shown short films by director David Lynch on Wednesday, Oct. 29, offering audiences a chance to experience the filmmaker’s early experimental work on the big screen. Doors open at 6 p.m., with screenings beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission. The event […]
JPT Film & Event Center honors Robert Redford with eight-film retrospective
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center is launching a film series this month honoring the late Robert Redford, showcasing eight of the actor and filmmaker’s most celebrated works over the coming months. Redford died Sept. 16 at age 89. “Remembering Robert Redford” kicks off Sunday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. with a screening of […]
Only Newport achieves affordable housing threshold
Only Newport among Newport County communities achieves the state’s goal of 10 percent housing classified as affordable, despite the state legislature’s creative revision to how it counts affordable housing units. That revision was meant to add housing units to those counted as “low and moderate income,” but still only eight of Rhode Island’s 39 cities […]
Newport opens applications for 2027 community grant programs
The City of Newport announced Friday the launch of its newly revised community grant programs, opening funding opportunities for local nonprofit organizations serving the community’s most vulnerable residents. Applications for fiscal year 2027 grants will be accepted through an online portal opening Nov. 13, with a firm deadline of Dec. 5. The initiative represents a […]
On the Market: A look at 47 homes hosting open houses this weekend in Newport County (Oct. 18-19)
After a week in Austin, Texas, where I was attending the 2025 REMAX Elite retreat, we are back to your normally scheduled programming. Spending time with some of the top agents in the country is always inspiring, and hearing about the state of other markets throughout the country is always food for thought.This weekend’s Open […]
Obituary: Camilla Kenyon Boyd Chappell
Camilla Kenyon Boyd Chappell passed away peacefully in her home on October 13, 2025. Her two daughters (the bookends of her family of five) were with her, and the days before her death were filled with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and friends. She was the light at the center of a […]
Obituary: Richard Hatch
Richard H. Hatch, 86, of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, died on October 7, 2025. He was the husband of Joyce (McMahon) Hatch. Born in Newport, RI on August 19, 1939, He was the son of the late John and Helen (Durfee) Hatch. Richard grew up in Middletown on East Main Road. He enlisted to serve in […]
What’s happening this weekend in Newport: Oct. 17-19
Discover all that’s happening for live music, entertainment, and events this weekend in and around Newport. Organizing an event? Add it to What’sUpNewp’s event calendar. Friday, Oct. 17 Things To Do 8 a.m.: 2025 DF95 National Championship at Fort Adams State Park 10 a.m.: Class of 2026 T-Shirt Sale at Rogers High School 11 a.m.: […]
Obituary: Michael O’Hara
Michael James O’Hara – “Mick” – tragically passed away after taking his own life on October 11, 2025, at 17 years old. At the time of his death, Mick was a Sixth-Form student at Portsmouth Abbey School and a Prefect in St. Martin’s House. Mick was born into a Navy family in Portsmouth, Virginia, to […]
DF95 National Championship brings 60 top sailors to Newport
Sixty of the nation’s top sailors will guide 37-inch carbon fiber sailboats across the water at Sail Newport this weekend, competing in the DragonFlite 95 National Championship through Sunday. The diminutive radio-controlled boats, powered by wind and controlled from shore with hand-held transmitters, belie the expertise required to race them. “It’s like a chess match […]
Historian to discuss Irish American identity shifts at Museum of Newport Irish History
The Museum of Newport Irish History will present the second talk of its 24th Annual Lecture Series on Monday, featuring historian Dr. Timothy J. Meagher discussing the transformation of Irish American identity across four decades. Meagher, retired professor of history and archivist at Catholic University in Washington, D.C., will deliver “Irish American Identity in Transition: […]
Coast Guard revises buoy removal plan after public feedback, but 20 markers still at risk in R.I.
Guided by the comments of more than 3,000 New England boaters and advocates, the U.S. Coast Guard has scaled back plans to remove hundreds of navigational buoys across the region, including in Rhode Island.Rhode Island is now poised to lose 20 buoys, rather than 37, under a revised plan unveiled by the Coast Guard in […]
Obituary: Dennis Demessianos
Dennis Michael Demessianos Age 74 Born in Newport, Rhode Island on October 23, 1950 to Alexander and Mary (Nardelli) Demessianos. Dennis passed away at the Grand Islander Nursing Home in Middletown, Rhode Island on October 7, 2025. He is survived by, Lelanie Kratochwill, step-children, Talon and Jennah Kratochwill, his brother Paul (Paula Patalano) Demessianos and […]
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel returns to face the Titans for 1st time since being fired
By TERESA M. WALKER AP Pro Football Writer NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Mike Vrabel congratulated Brian Callahan when Tennessee hired him as Vrabel’s successor as the Titans’ head coach. Vrabel also texted Callahan after being fired six games into his second season. “I just remember all those coaches or people that reached out after I was let go,” Vrabel […]
Newport City Council to tackle liquor licenses, holiday events and new commissions at Oct. 22 meeting
The Newport City Council will convene next Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall for a regular meeting packed with business ranging from holiday event approvals to the potential creation of new city commissions. Holiday events and special permits The consent calendar includes approval for several community events that will bring holiday cheer […]
Obituary: Agatha “Aggie” Kirby Perkins
Agatha “Aggie” Kirby Perkins, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, died on October 13, 2025 together with her husband Thomas Perkins. Born on December 24, 1958, in Newport, Rhode Island, she was the daughter of the late Jerome R. Kirby Jr. and Helen C. Kirby. Aggie graduated from Middletown High School where she excelled academically […]
Rail Explorers to celebrate 1 millionth rider Friday
Rail Explorers expects to welcome its 1 millionth rider Friday at 11 a.m. at its Rhode Island location in Portsmouth. The milestone marks a decade of growth since the company launched the railbike industry in the United States in July 2015 in New York, according to a media advisory. Rail Explorers started with seven pedal-powered […]
CCRI, Newport Chamber partner for career fair Oct. 30
The Community College of Rhode Island is partnering with the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce, the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, and the city of Newport to sponsor a career fair on Oct. 30 at Innovate Newport. The free, public event will feature more than 30 employers from a wide range of industries, […]
Rogers High School class of 2026 to hold t-shirt sale Oct. 24
The Rogers High School Class of 2026 will host a T-shirt sale on Friday, Oct. 24, on the school’s front steps from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring a collaborative design with local surf brand Waterbrothers. The fundraiser is made possible through The BonRock Foundation, established by the Kilroy family in memory of their mother, […]
Jim Belushi to perform holiday concert at The JPT Film + Event Center
Actor, musician, and comedian Jim Belushi will bring his holiday show to The JPT Film + Event Center on Friday, Dec. 12, for a fundraising concert benefiting Newport’s Broadway Street Fair. “Home For The Holidays: Jim Belushi & Friends Live In Concert” will feature Belushi alongside an ensemble of musicians, including members of the Rolling […]
Obituary: Irene Haney
Irene Sullivan Haney, 87, of Centerville, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, surrounded by her family. Irene was a joyous enthusiast. She rode ziplines and loved helicopter rides. She specialized in flower arranging and blueberry pie making. She knit all her children’s sweaters. She loved the opera, Shakespeare and the symphony. The Cape […]
Newport schools superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain to step down in June 2026
Colleen Burns Jermain, Ed.D., has announced she will step down as Superintendent of Newport Public Schools, effective June 30, 2026, bringing an end to her tenure leading the district. Jermain notified School Committee Chair James Dring and committee members of her decision in a letter dated Tuesday, October 14, 2025, citing the terms of her […]
Newport receives $65,000 in state grants to boost math skills, student attendance
Gov. Dan McKee and Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green announced Tuesday that Newport will receive $65,000 in state grants aimed at improving math skills and student attendance through out-of-school learning programs. The funding is part of the fourth round of Learn365RI Municipal Learning Project grants, which awarded $1.39 million to 38 communities statewide. Other Aquidneck Island […]
Judge accuses Homeland Security of bullying states into accepting conditions to get FEMA money
By MICHAEL CASEY Associated Press A federal judge in Rhode Island on Tuesday accused the Trump administration of trying to “bully” states into accepting conditions that require them to cooperate on immigration enforcement actions to get disaster funding after he ruled earlier that those actions were unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge William Smith, who was appointed by former […]
‘No Kings’ protests return to Rhode Island on Saturday
Four months after millions of “No Kings” protesters rallied across the country against the policies of President Donald Trump and his administration, more peaceful protests are planned for Saturday, Oct. 18, including nine across Rhode Island. That’s one more than the eight held in the Ocean State on June 14, when an estimated 5 million […]
Obituary: Edward McDonald
Edward E. McDonald, 77, passed away peacefully on October 12th, 2025 at the Grand Islander Center in Middletown surrounded by his caregivers. Born and raised in Rhode Island, Ed made his home in Portsmouth for more than 30 years. He was the son of the late John McDonald and Netta (Hodson) McDonald. Ed graduated from […]
Consumer confidence plummets as economy slows, Fed reports show
Despite claims to the contrary from the White House, the economy nationally and regionally is limping along, with rising inflation, slow job growth, and weakening consumer confidence, according to the latest reports from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. For Rhode Island that means unemployment is nearly a percent higher than the New England average, […]
Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra to open season with Gershwin, Ravel
The Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra will kick off its 2025-2026 season with a diverse program ranging from French impressionism to American jazz Nov. 2 at East Providence High School. The 3 p.m. concert at the school’s auditorium, 2000 Pawtucket Ave., will feature interim Music Director John Eells leading the orchestra through works by Maurice […]
Obituary: Anne Margaret Naisbitt
Anne Margaret Naisbitt was born the 16th of August, 1952 in Providence, Rhode Island to her mother, Gladys Condry and Father, George Condry, joining her older sister Lynne Condry. Anne was 73 when she passed away peacefully on the 25th of September, 2025. She is survived and celebrated by her son, Scott Condry Naisbitt, her grandson, Wyatt Shawn Naisbitt, and her late son, Roy William Naisbitt III (Billy), along with […]
Plane crashes onto a Massachusetts highway, killing 2 on board and hurting 1 motorist
DARTMOUTH, Mass. (AP) — A small airplane crashed straight into a major Massachusetts highway during the Monday morning rush hour, killing both people on board and scattering flaming debris across the interstate. Miraculously, no motorists on Interstate 195 were seriously injured, New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell said in a statement on Facebook. A woman whose […]
Obituary: Barbara Blinn
Barbara A. Blinn, 67, of Newport, Rhode Island, died on Saturday, October 4, 2025 after a short illness. Born in Newport, RI on March 3, 1958, she was the daughter of Barbara (Hamill) Platt and the late James Platt. Barbara grew up in Newport later found great pride working as a CNA. She had a […]
Obituary: James “Jim” B. Sellar
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James “Jim” B. Sellar on October 10, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on June 20, 1935, in Paisley, Scotland, Jim lived a long and meaningful life and passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. He was married to his beloved wife, Margaret, for an incredible […]
Broadway Street Fair celebrates 10th anniversary with record crowds and community spirit
The 2025 Broadway Street Fair, which originated in 2016 following years of major construction up and down the main thoroughfare, was a massive success on its 10th calendar Anniversary. This free event is family-friendly and stretches from Equality Park down to Washington Square with six stages along the way serving up a broad array of […]
Obituary: Antonio L. Lontoc Jr.
Antonio L. Lontoc Jr. MSCM, USN (Ret.), 90, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025. Antonio was born October 1, 1935, in Naga City, Republic of the Philippines, to Antonio and Lourdes Lontoc. Master Chief Lontoc enlisted in the U.S. Navy on January 13, 1961, at the U.S. Navy station, Sangley Point in Cavite City, Republic of the Philippines. After completing […]
Farrell, Davy complete comeback as Rhode Island defeats New Hampshire 38-27
KINGSTON, R.I. (AP) — Devin Farrell scored with 2:12 remaining, and Rohan Davy had a 45-yard scoop-and-score one minute later to finish FCS No. 17 Rhode Island’s comeback win over New Hampshire, 38-27 on Saturday. The Rams (5-2, 3-0 Coastal Athletic Association) snapped a two-game skid with a 10-point fourth quarter comeback, scoring 21 unanswered […]
Newport man charged in domestic assault that left victim in critical condition
A 21-year-old Newport man has been charged with multiple felonies in connection with a domestic assault Friday that left a victim in critical condition, police said Saturday. Preston Schuster of Newport was charged with two counts of felony domestic assault, felony possession of a knife during the commission of a crime and two counts of […]
On the Market: 53 Newport County homes hosting open houses this weekend (Oct. 11 – 12)
It’s shaping up to be one of the busiest weekends of the fall here in Newport County, and not just in real estate. Between a jam-packed calendar of local happenings and one of my personal favorites, the Broadway Street Fair, the City by the Sea is buzzing with energy and activity. Even with an impending […]
Newport man in custody after assault leaves victim in critical condition
A 21-year-old victim is in critical condition at Rhode Island Hospital following an assault Friday morning on Carey Street, according to Newport police. Officers responded to 24 Carey Street at about 11:30 a.m. for a report of a possible assault, Lt. Joseph C. Carroll said in a statement. When officers arrived, they found a 21-year-old […]
Charter Books to host cookbook event with Rhode Island author
Charter Books will host Rhode Island cookbook author Polina Chesnakova for a cooking demonstration and tasting on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at Pivotal Brewing. Chesnakova will demonstrate how to make varenyky, a stuffed dumpling featured in her recently published cookbook “Chesnok: Cooking from My Corner of the Diaspora: Recipes from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central […]
Dr. Michael Fine: Three things that are smart, not crazy, about health care
Three logical, smart, and hopeful things happened in health care in the past few weeks. I’m glad to be able to tell you about them. The first good thing is that the Rhode Island Department of Health joined Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York to form the Northeast Public Health […]
Newport Art Museum reopens members’ exhibition after community feedback
The Newport Art Museum is bringing back its Members’ Juried Exhibition after a strategic planning process revealed strong community demand for the tradition. The exhibition, titled “Springboard,” opens Jan. 22, 2026, in the museum’s historic John N.A. Griswold House and will feature works by museum members displayed alongside pieces from the permanent collection. The show […]
Spotlighting the busy women (and a few good men) behind the scenes at the Broadway Street Fair
Historians and cartographers will tell you that “Broadway” is typically one of the first streets laid out on a city map, designed as a central artery for commerce. The name, derived from the Dutch Breede weg, meaning “broad way,” likely originated from Native American footpaths that ran diagonally down the length of Manhattan Island. Newport’s […]
