Posted inCity & Government

Newport Schools Superintendent reports smooth start to year with new high school building

Newport Public Schools Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain reports an overwhelmingly positive start to the school year, with students and staff adapting well to the new Rogers High School building that opened following a ribbon-cutting ceremony about a month ago. “Wow, this is great. It’s wonderful. They’re still, I think, can’t believe that this is their […]

Posted inBusiness

People’s Credit Union volunteers donate 500+ hours to combat homelessness and housing insecurity

People’s Credit Union closed all its branches Sept. 18 to allow employees to volunteer with 12 nonprofit organizations across Rhode Island, donating more than 500 hours to combat homelessness and housing insecurity. The Middletown-based credit union’s second annual Day of Purpose saw employees partner with organizations from Providence to South Kingstown, conducting financial wellness workshops, […]

Posted inObituaries

Obituary: Mary Fougere

Mary L. Fougere, 96, of Newport, RI, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025. Born in Bristol, RI on April 8, 1929, she was the daughter of William and Catherine (White) Bottomley. She was the loving wife of the late Stephen P. Fougere for over 70 years. Mary grew up in Bristol, attending parochial schools […]

Posted inInstagram, Sports

Salve Regina blanks Mass Maritime 5-0 behind five different scorers

Five different players found the back of the net as Salve Regina University’s men’s soccer team dominated Massachusetts Maritime Academy 5-0 in non-league action at Toppa Field on Tuesday night. The victory improved the Seahawks to 2-2-3 overall while extending their winning streak against the Buccaneers to 10 games. Sophomore Sawyer Beyer of New Milford, […]

Posted inNews

‘No risk free path:’ Fed Chair Jerome Powell calls for moderation on monetary policy

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell gave no indication that future interest rate cuts are coming, despite mounting pressure from President Donald Trump and Trump-appointed officials for the central bank. Speaking to more than 500 business, nonprofit and political leaders at The Crowne Plaza in Warwick Tuesday, Powell emphasized the need for a cautious approach to […]

Posted inReal Estate

Newport oceanfront estate sells for $12.1 million

An oceanfront estate at 320 Harrison Avenue sold for $12,145,000, the second-highest residential sale in Newport this year and one of the top three statewide, according to Rhode Island Statewide MLS data. Kate Kirby Greenman and Michelle Kirby of Gustave White Sotheby’s International Realty listed the 14.8-acre property. Lee Scura Holloway of Residential Properties Ltd. […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Newport Festa Italiana returns Sept. 26-Oct. 13 with food, music and cultural celebrations

The annual Newport Festa Italiana will return Sept. 26-Oct. 13, offering nearly three weeks of events celebrating Italian culture, cuisine and community traditions in the City by the Sea. The festival kicks off Friday, Sept. 26, with the John Panaggio Original Ziti Night at Vasco da Gama Hall, 15 Fenner Ave. The dinner runs 5-7 […]

Posted inFood & Drink, Instagram, News

La Vecina adds Sunday brunch with authentic Mexican fare

La Vecina has launched a new Sunday brunch menu featuring authentic Mexican dishes with a morning twist, the Newport Restaurant Group announced Tuesday. The brunch menu, created by Executive Chef Mariana Gonzalez-Trasvina, is available Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the restaurant located at 24 Washington Square. Menu items include chilaquiles with tortilla […]

Posted inNews

Newport superintendent to discuss school updates in live Q&A Wednesday

Newport School Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain joins What’sUpNewp for a live virtual video conversation on Wednesday at 1:30 pm. The discussion typically covers a range of topics from curriculum updates and facility improvements to budget matters and student achievement initiatives. Community members can submit questions in advance through a Google form available at whatsupnewp.com/ask-the-superintendent/, or pose […]

Posted inOpinion

Letter to the Editor: Middletown library project lacks transparency and fiscal accountability

The library, once an integral part of the original Request for Information (RFI) for the “Middletown Center” and in fact, included in the developer’s RFI response, has vanished from the proposal and plat. The purchase of the inappropriate commercial building for $3.4 million was made in closed door session without any regard of taxpayer input. […]

Posted inBusiness

CVS Health subsidiary Omnicare files for Ch. 11 bankruptcy protection

By MICHELLE CHAPMAN AP Business Writer CVS Health subsidiary Omnicare has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection two months after the long-term care business was ordered to pay $949 million when a federal court found it liable for filing fraudulent claims for some prescription drugs. In 2019 the federal government joined the legal fight against CVS Health […]

Posted inOpinion

Letter to the Editor: Middletown resident questions town’s bidding process for development project

More than once, I have publicly heard or seen reference to a Request for Proposal (RFP) in connection with the Town Center project from the developer.   From what I can find on the Town’s website, no RFP was issued for this very important project.  Why? The Town issued a Request for Information (RFI), to probe the […]

Posted inInstagram, News, Sports

Portsmouth falls to La Salle in four sets despite second-set rally

La Salle Academy’s girls volleyball team overcame a mid-match stumble to defeat visiting Portsmouth 3-1 on Tuesday night, with the Rams taking sets 25-12, 16-25, and two additional sets to secure the victory. The match began with La Salle asserting early dominance, cruising to a commanding 25-12 first-set win that showcased the home team’s offensive […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island high school coach who did naked fat tests sentenced to year of probation

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A Rhode Island judge on Monday sentenced a former high school basketball coach to a year of probation after he spent decades asking hundreds of male student-athletes if they were “shy or not shy” before asking them to get naked so he could check their body fat. Earlier this year, a jury found […]

Posted inCity & Government

Federal judge lifts Trump administration’s halt of nearly complete offshore wind farm in New England

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge ruled Monday that a nearly complete offshore wind project halted by the administration can resume, dealing President Donald Trump a setback in his ongoing effort to restrict the fledgling industry. Work on the nearly completed Revolution Wind project for Rhode Island and Connecticut has been paused since Aug. 22 when the […]

Posted inInstagram, Real Estate

What Sold: A look at 15 recent sales across Newport County (Sept. 15-19)

The Newport County housing market continues to demonstrate strength and resilience, particularly in the luxury sector. Last week, several high-end properties traded hands, including three Newport sales exceeding $2 million: 22 Greenough Place, 10 Linden Gate Lane, and 7 Maher Court. These transactions highlight a consistent trend, that well-positioned homes in desirable neighborhoods remain in […]

Posted inInstagram, News, Police & Fire

Warren man charged after crime spree began at Newport police station

A crime spree that spanned Aquidneck Island Monday morning began when a Warren man drove to Newport Police headquarters seeking help for what he described as an emergency, according to police. Jaron Monroe, 37, of Warren, pulled into the front parking lot of the Newport Police Department at approximately 7:45 a.m. and reported he was […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

Norman Bird Sanctuary’s Harvest Fair returns with expanded sustainability focus

The Norman Bird Sanctuary’s annual Harvest Fair will return Oct. 4-5 with an expanded focus on sustainability, thanks to lead sponsor 11th Hour Racing’s continued partnership. The two-day event, which has drawn thousands of visitors to Aquidneck Island for more than 50 years, will feature traditional autumn activities alongside new environmental initiatives designed to promote […]

Posted inSports

Patriots beat themselves with 5 turnovers vs. Steelers, including 2 near the end zone

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — An interception in the end zone. A fumble at the goal line. And three more turnovers — including Drake Maye’s fumble late in the fourth quarter with the Patriots in position for the go-ahead score — doomed New England to a 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. “It stings just knowing […]

Posted inArts & Culture, Instagram, Music & Entertainment, News

Newport native Tanya Donelly and Belly deliver sold-out performance at Greenwich Odeum

Newport native Tanya Donelly demonstrated that musical dreams can come true as her alternative rock band Belly thrilled a sold-out crowd at the Greenwich Odeum on Sept. 18, performing their 1993 album “King” in its entirety for the first time. While attending Rogers High School, Donelly and step-sister Kristin Hersh wrote poetry and added melodies […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

Newport Restoration Foundation honors four projects at 19th annual preservation awards

The Newport Restoration Foundation recognized four exemplary historic preservation projects in Newport County at its 19th Annual Doris Duke Historic Preservation Awards on Thursday. The sold-out ceremony at Rough Point honored Hope Street Barn, Honeysuckle Carriage House, Ochre Court’s Cignaroli Ceiling Painting and OVERLAP Gallery. The 2025 awardees were selected in collaboration with the City […]

Posted inNews, Police & Fire

Military projectile found in Tiverton business basement safely detonated

A military projectile discovered in the basement of a local business was safely detonated off-site after prompting evacuations Thursday morning, according to the Tiverton Police Department. Police and fire personnel responded to 2490 Main Road at approximately 8:32 a.m. Thursday following a report of a potential explosive device in the basement of the business, police […]

Posted inArts & Culture, Instagram, Music & Entertainment, Things To Do

What’s happening this weekend in Newport: Sept. 19-21

Newport is serving up the perfect blend of Gilded Age elegance and world-class sailing this weekend as the 20th Annual Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival takes over Rosecliff with three days of seminars, tastings, and celebrity chef dinners, while the 12 Metre North American Championship brings historic America’s Cup yachts to Narragansett Bay for […]

Posted inReal Estate

Tiverton home sells for $2.15 million, second-highest sale of 2025

A contemporary waterfront home in Tiverton sold for $2.15 million, marking the second-highest residential sale in the town this year, according to Multiple Listing Service data. The property at 95 Riverscape Lane features deeded water access, five bedrooms and was designed for multi-generational living. The sale was completed with buyers represented by the Soby-Roberts Team […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council to consider harbor rules, major contracts at Wednesday meeting

The Newport City Council will meet Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. to consider harbor ordinance revisions and approve several major infrastructure contracts in what could be one of the year’s most significant meetings. Harbor regulations take center stage as the council reviews proposed ordinance changes while also considering a Waterfront Commission request for an economic impact […]

Posted inInstagram, Sports

Tiverton volleyball stays perfect with 3-0 sweep of St. Raphael Academy

The Tiverton High School girls volleyball team continued its undefeated march through the season Wednesday night, dismantling host St. Raphael Academy in straight sets, 25-16, 25-18, 25-17. The Tigers, now 8-0 on the season, were led by a balanced offensive attack with multiple players contributing across all statistical categories. Sayler Ouellette recorded 15 assists, three […]

Posted inSports

Red Sox edge Athletics 5-4 in 10 innings for 11th walk-off win of the year

By MAUREEN MULLEN Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — Pinch-hitter Nick Sogard’s 10th-inning infield grounder off Michael Kelly drove home Nate Eaton with the winning run, and the Boston Red Sox beat the Athletics 5-4 on Wednesday night for their American League-leading 11th walk-off win of the season. Eaton started the inning as the designated runner […]

Posted inCity & Government

RIPTA implements fall service changes on 45 routes starting Sept. 27

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority will reduce service on 45 bus routes beginning Saturday, Sept. 27, as part of its fall service adjustments. The changes affect routes throughout the state, including frequency reductions, span cuts and complete elimination of weekend service on several routes. RIPTA said the adjustments follow regular seasonal changes that occur […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

Newport County gets $1.05M in federal community grants

Three Newport County communities will receive more than $1 million in federal Community Development Block Grant funding to support public facility improvements and essential services, Gov. Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing announced Wednesday. The awards, totaling approximately $1.05 million for the region, will fund projects ranging from senior center renovations […]

Posted inCity & Government, News

Portsmouth senator pushes for gas hookup moratorium to close LNG facility

State Sen. Linda Ujifusa is urging the Portsmouth Town Council to support a moratorium on new gas hookups on Aquidneck Island, arguing it’s necessary to close a temporary liquefied natural gas facility that has operated in a residential neighborhood for nearly six years. In a memorandum sent Tuesday to both the Town Council and the […]

Posted inReal Estate

Record-breaking sale closes in Little Compton’s Adamsville village

A three-home compound on Old Harbor Road has sold for $1.89 million, marking the highest recorded sale in Little Compton’s historic Adamsville village. Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty announced Tuesday that the property at 51-53 Old Harbor Road closed with Cherry Arnold representing the sellers and Liz Kinnane representing the buyers. Both agents work […]

Posted inEnvironment & Health, News

Trump has crushed offshore wind plans, but states haven’t quite given up hope

by Alex Brown, StatelineSeptember 16, 2025 As President Donald Trump wages an all-out assault on offshore wind projects, state leaders face a dilemma: Do they pull the plug on offshore wind and look for other ways to meet their fast-growing energy needs? Or do they double down on their investments, in hopes of helping the […]

Posted inObituaries

Obituary: Robert Kieronski

Robert Victor Kieronski of Newport, an award-winning artist, inventor and electronics engineer with an ever-curious mind and a whimsical sense of humor, died in Hope Hospice Center in Providence on September 2, 2025 at the age of 84. With his characteristic resilience and determination, Robert had dealt with renal disease and other complex medical issues […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Hollywood icon Robert Redford dies at 89; had deep Newport ties

Robert Redford, the golden-haired Hollywood icon whose magnetic screen presence defined American cinema for generations, died Tuesday morning at his Utah home. He was 89. The Oscar-winning actor and director maintained a special connection to Newport that spanned 42 years — from his star-making role in “The Great Gatsby” to his heartfelt 2016 thank-you letter […]

Posted inArts & Culture

‘Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story’ now available for digital purchase and rental

The highly anticipated documentary “Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story” is now available for purchase and rental on major digital platforms, bringing the story of Newport’s legendary surfer and skater to audiences worldwide. The 90-minute film, directed by Charles and Daniel Kinnane and produced by Kinnane Brothers studio, premiered at Fort Adams State Park in […]

Posted inNews

New England’s shrimp industry is struggling, with fishermen catching few in 2025

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — There’s an effort underway to bring New England shrimp back to seafood customers — but fishermen have found few of the crustaceans, and the fishing industry that harvests them may face an even longer shutdown. Fishermen have been under a moratorium on catching shrimp for more than a decade because of […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

IYRS School of Technology & Trades earns dual national honors for student success

The IYRS School of Technology & Trades received two national honors from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, the school announced in a press release Monday. The Newport-based trade school earned the 2025 ACCSC Commitment to Student Success Award, the commission’s highest institutional recognition, according to the announcement. Additionally, Athena Vieira, a 2024 […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Grammy Winner Lori McKenna delivers intimate performance at sold-out JPT Film & Event Center

Lori McKenna has been quietly creating song stories from her kitchen for decades. Her songs resonate with all and touch the heart with their vivid, easily identifiable characters, often found within ourselves. She has a true gift which has been recognized by many in the industry, and who have recorded her work, launching the Stoughton […]

Posted inSports

Maye accounts for 3 TDs and Patriots top Dolphins 33-27 for Vrabel’s 1st win as New England coach

By ALANIS THAMES AP Sports Writer MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Antonio Gibson burst through the Miami Dolphins’ coverage unit on a kick return and dived into the end zone while New England coach Mike Vrabel excitedly chased him almost the entire way down the Patriots’ sideline. Gibson, whose 90-yard score helped the Patriots beat the Dolphins […]

Posted inSports

Myer throws 2 TD passes, Collick has TD catch and scoop-and-score in Bryant’s 42-6 win over Bentley

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (AP) — Brennan Myer threw for two touchdowns, Zyheem Collick had a TD catch and returned a blocked punt for a score and Bryant defeated Division II Bentley 42-6 on Saturday night. Andre Smith blocked a punt and Collick got the scoop-and-score for the game’s first points less than three minutes in. Myer […]

Posted inSports

Salve Regina hockey programs to rejoin Conference of New England

Salve Regina University’s men’s and women’s ice hockey teams will return to the Conference of New England beginning with the 2026-27 season, university President Kelli Armstrong announced Friday. The Seahawks are rejoining the league formerly known as the Commonwealth Coast Conference after spending the upcoming 2025-26 season as independents. “We are very grateful to the […]

Posted inArts & Culture

URI launches study abroad program honoring late Newport resident Earl Smith

The University of Rhode Island launched its inaugural Earl N. Smith III Cabo Verde Study Abroad Program this summer, honoring a beloved former assistant dean who was a Newport resident, according to URI. Eleven URI students traveled to Cabo Verde as part of the program that celebrates Smith’s commitment to social justice and cross-cultural understanding. […]

Posted inCity & Government, Environment & Health

McKee ensures COVID-19 vaccine access as federal guidance shifts

Gov. Dan McKee announced immediate measures Thursday to guarantee continued access to COVID-19 vaccines for all Rhode Islanders over 6 months old, responding to federal policy changes that have created uncertainty around vaccine availability. The governor directed the Rhode Island Department of Health and Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner to issue a bulletin requiring […]

Posted inEnvironment & Health, News

State health officials issue advisory for Portsmouth pond due to toxic algae bloom

State health and environmental officials are advising residents to avoid all contact with Lower Melville Pond after confirming the presence of a harmful cyanobacteria bloom that can cause serious health problems in humans and pets. The Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued the advisory Friday, warning that swimming, […]

Posted inInstagram

Things to do this weekend in Newport: Sept. 12 – 14

Newport’s weekend lineup showcases the city’s signature blend of maritime tradition and cultural sophistication. The four-day Newport International Boat Show anchors the weekend’s activities, drawing sailing enthusiasts to explore the latest vessels and marine technology. Music lovers can catch everything from intimate jazz performances at Johnny’s Restaurant to the high-energy dueling pianos at Top of […]

Posted inBusiness

Michele Gallagher: Newport Chowder Company – From family recipe to coast-to-coast delicacy

In September, we New Englanders watch the leaves start to fall and the temperatures begin to drop. Sweaters and coats come out of storage, and boats start leaving the marinas for their winter havens. And just like that, we’re ready for chowder—Newport style! This weekend, while enjoying the Newport International Boat Show, I’ll be joining […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Jazz meets Shakespeare in Newport concert series

Puddingstone Music will launch a new concert series this fall combining jazz performances with Shakespeare readings, the organization announced Thursday. The “Jazz and Shakespeare” series will feature two performances at Newport venues, blending live music with dramatic readings of the playwright’s monologues and sonnets. The series opens Sept. 28 at 3 p.m. at Provence Sur […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council meeting rescheduled to Monday at Pell School

The Newport City Council meeting originally scheduled for Wednesday has been rescheduled to Monday, Sept. 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the Pell School Cafeteria, 35 Dexter St. The city’s communications department announced the rescheduled meeting location and date Friday morning, noting the session was moved from its original Sept. 10 date. The meeting will be […]

Posted inInstagram, News, Nonprofit

Sail Newport upgrades fleet with 14 new J/7 keelboats for public programs

Sail Newport announced Thursday at the Newport International Boat Show that it has purchased 14 new J/7 sailboats to replace its aging fleet and expand capacity for the nonprofit’s public sailing programs, according to a press release. The 23-foot daysailers feature enlarged cockpits that can accommodate up to six adults, nearly double the capacity of […]

Posted inNews, Things To Do

Newport Elks lodge to host celebrity bartender night for Alzheimer’s fundraiser

Newport Mayor Charlie Holder will trade his gavel for a cocktail shaker next week when he joins other local celebrities behind the bar for a fundraising event benefiting the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. The Newport Elks Lodge #104 will host “Pouring for a Purpose: Celebrity Bartender Night” on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 4-7 p.m. at […]

Posted inBusiness

Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice marks 75 years of service

Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice, a cornerstone of public health in Rhode Island, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The non-profit, which began with just four nurses in Newport, has grown into a statewide organization with more than 200 employees, providing skilled nursing, rehabilitation and hospice care to thousands of patients annually. The organization’s […]

Posted inNews

Rhode Island coalition to host seventh annual stormwater innovation expo

The Rhode Island Green Infrastructure Coalition will host its seventh annual Stormwater Innovation Expo on Oct. 8, bringing together environmental professionals and community leaders to address climate resilience challenges facing the Ocean State. The day-long event, scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Roger Williams Park Casino, will focus on the theme “Climate […]

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