The Community College of Rhode Island will offer English Language Studies classes at its Newport campus starting this fall, expanding access to language education for residents of Aquidneck Island. The classes will be held on weekday evenings and Saturdays to accommodate adult learners who work or have family responsibilities, CCRI announced Thursday. “We are proud […]
Rhode Island
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: John Weishaupt
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Richard Weishaupt, age 74, on August 3, 2025. Born on February 23, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, John was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend whose life touched the hearts of many. John was studious, he earned an MBA from Wayne State University […]
Posted inNews
Morning Notes: BankNewport awards $50,000 grant to preserve Jamestown farmland
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Friday, Aug. 8, the 220th day of 2025. There are 145 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know BankNewport’s Charitable Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to Jamestown Community Farm to support the nonprofit’s “One Chance Campaign,” an effort to permanently acquire 15 acres of farmland […]
Posted inCity & Government
Mount Hope Bridge to close for weekend resurfacing project
The Mount Hope Bridge will close to all traffic for four days starting Thursday evening as crews work to resurface the span connecting Bristol and Portsmouth. The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority announced the bridge will be closed from 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, through 5 a.m. Monday, Aug. 18, weather permitting. During the […]
Posted inNews, Sports
Bronze statue of Tom Brady to be unveiled before Patriots’ exhibition opener
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Tom Brady left his imprint all over the New England Patriots’ record books during his stellar two-decade run with the team. Now, he is set to become the first player in franchise history to be honored with a statue. During a star-studded Patriots Hall of Fame induction last June, at which Brady’s No. […]
Posted inCity & Government
Governor McKee honors Newport Mental Health for crisis response after Portsmouth tragedy
MIDDLETOWN — Gov. Daniel McKee has recognized Newport Mental Health for its crisis response following a tragic June incident in Portsmouth that killed a 15-year-old student and critically injured a 17-year-old. Richard Leclerc, director of the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals, presented a Certificate of Special Recognition to Dayna Gladstein, […]
Posted inCity & Government
RIPTA board tables sweeping cuts after receiving last minute letter from McKee
by Alexander Castro, Rhode Island Current August 7, 2025 It’s back to the drawing board for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). The agency’s Board of Directors voted Thursday morning to table a proposal that would have slashed or reduced services on the majority of its bus routes, all in the hope of repairing […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Joan Kendall
Joan Theresa Kendall, 93, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late James R. Kendall. Born on September 19, 1931, in Norwalk, Connecticut, Joan was the daughter of the late William and Christine (Eek) Horvath. Joan was an incredibly outgoing and engaging woman. She […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport City Council to consider special events, police contract at Aug. 13 meeting
The Newport City Council will meet Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at City Hall to consider a packed agenda including several special event permits, a police union contract and multiple parking ordinance changes. The meeting will begin with a proclamation honoring Joe Logue, the recently retired director of the Newport Public Library. […]
Posted inNews
Things to do in Newport County this weekend: Aug. 7 – 10
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in Newport County this week and weekend. Are you organizing an event? Submit events to our community calendar. Thursday, August 7 Things To Do 9 am: Monthly Coffee with the Curator at The Sailing Museum 11:30 am: “The Beauty Molecule” with Nicholas Perricone M.D. at The Brenton Hotel 3 pm: Sakonnet Green Market at Sakonnet […]
Posted inNews
Newport man pleads no contest in child exploitation case; Massachusetts man now fugitive
UPDATE: September 9, 2025 A Massachusetts man arrested in a multistate child exploitation operation is now a fugitive after failing to appear for a court hearing, while a Newport man avoided jail time through a plea agreement, court records show. Josue Perez Gomez, 29, of Acushnet, Massachusetts, failed to appear for his scheduled Aug. 7 […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport County organizations receive more than $1 million in state homeless services funding
PROVIDENCE — Gov. Dan McKee announced Thursday that Rhode Island will invest approximately $20 million in year-round homeless shelters and services, with Newport County organizations receiving more than $1.3 million to expand local access to housing assistance. The funding, distributed among 25 service providers for 51 projects statewide, includes significant investments in Newport County-based organizations […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Chris “Mad One” “Mad1Had2” Walker
Christian Aaron Walker, of Newport, known to many as “Chris”, “Mad One”, or “Mad1Had2” passed away after an extended heart illness on July 23, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on February 16, 1978, in Newport, RI to Carol Ann Walker and Daniel T. Buckles. Chris arrived a week after the Blizzard of 1978. […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Newport City Council to consider school regionalization resolution
NEWPORT, R.I. — The Newport City Council will consider a resolution at its Aug. 13 regular meeting that would put a school regionalization question before voters in April 2026, marking a renewed effort nearly four years after Newport voters narrowly rejected a similar proposal. City Councilor Jeanne-Marie Napolitano will introduce the resolution, which proposes a […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Leonard Silvia
Leonard Silvia, 81, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025. He was the devoted husband of Prudence Silvia. Born in Fall River, MA on June 21, 1944, he was the son of the late John and Mary (Soares) Silvia. Leonard grew up in Portsmouth and graduated from Rogers High School in […]
Posted inNews, Things To Do
IYRS to host 46th Annual Newport Classic Yacht Regatta Labor Day weekend
NEWPORT, R.I. — The IYRS School of Technology & Trades will partner with the Ida Lewis Yacht Club to present the 46th Annual Newport Classic Yacht Regatta on Aug. 30-31. The event will bring together more than 200 sailors and supporters for a weekend celebrating classic wooden yachts at the IYRS campus at 449 Thames […]
Posted inBusiness
EBCAP employee to be honored at Rhode Island Health Center Beacon Awards
PROVIDENCE — Janine Petracca Fonseca of East Bay Community Action Program will be among eight health center employees honored tonight at the Rhode Island Health Center Association’s annual Beacon Awards ceremony at Roger Williams Park Casino. Petracca Fonseca, assistant program manager for behavioral health at EBCAP’s Integrated Health Home program, will be recognized for her […]
Posted inNews
Morning Notes: Youth athletes to compete in Race4Chase triathlon Sunday at Fort Adams
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Thursday, Aug. 7, the 219th day of 2025. There are 146 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Newport County YMCA will host the Race4Chase Youth Triathlon on Sunday at 8 a.m. at Fort Adams State Park, bringing together young athletes from across New England […]
Posted inSports
Sharks stun Gulls 6-3 in Game 3 to reach NECBL Championship
NEWPORT, R.I. — The Martha’s Vineyard Sharks completed a stunning semifinal comeback Tuesday night, defeating the defending champion Newport Gulls 6-3 in a decisive Game 3 at Cardines Field to advance to the New England Collegiate Baseball League championship series. The victory capped a remarkable turnaround for the Sharks, who faced elimination after dropping the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Edward King House to host treasure-hunting fundraiser Saturday
MIDDLETOWN — The Edward King House Senior Center will host “Plunder In The Parking Lot,” a treasure-hunting fundraiser Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 7 Valley Road. The event will feature three main attractions: a “Junk from the Trunk” community sale where residents sell items from their […]
Posted inSports
Royals end Boston’s 7-game win streak as Jonathan India hits 3-run homer in 7-3 victory
BOSTON (AP) — Jonathan India hit a three-run homer and Michael Wacha scattered five hits over six innings to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Red Sox 7-3 on Wednesday night, ending Boston’s seven-game winning streak. Wacha (6-9) allowed two runs while walking none and striking out three to earn his second consecutive victory […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Middletown schedules public hearings for ‘Middletown Center’
MIDDLETOWN, R.I. — The Middletown Town Council has scheduled two public hearings next month to gather community feedback on the proposed Middletown Center development, a mixed-use project planned for a prominent location along West Main Road. The hearings will take place on September 16 and September 30, both starting at 6 p.m. in the Middletown […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Movies and TV shows casting right now in Rhode Island
The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities’ Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of […]
Posted inSports
Boston Celtics trade Georges Niang to Utah Jazz for 2 draft picks
BOSTON (AP) — The Boston Celtics traded recently acquired forward Georges Niang and two future second-round draft picks to the Utah Jazz in exchange for rookie RJ Luis Jr., both teams announced Wednesday. The deal is contingent on the players passing their physicals. Niang is headed to Utah just a month after being dealt to […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter to the Editor: Newport’s housing paradox – we can’t have it both ways
Newport is in the middle of a housing crisis. Local teachers, healthcare workers, hospitality staff, and young families are being priced out of the city they serve. Yet time and again, new housing proposals—even those for affordable or workforce housing—are met with loud resistance, usually centered on one issue: traffic. To be clear, traffic is […]
Posted inCity & Government
Spring Street paving project to begin Aug. 12
The City of Newport Department of Utilities announced that contractor Boyle & Fogarty will begin full-width milling of road surfaces starting Monday as part of a comprehensive street paving project. The work will affect Spring Street, Dearborn Street, Perry Street, Dean Avenue, and the intersections of Dearborn Street and Thames Street, and Dean Avenue and […]
Posted inSports
Safe Harbor Race Weekend sails into fifth year with record fleet
NEWPORT, R.I. — The Safe Harbor Race Weekend is back for its fifth year, starting August 8 with a record-breaking 73 boats across several classes. This three-day regatta in Newport features boats in ORC and PHRF classes, a 19-boat IC37 one-design class, and six superyachts. Steve Liebel, last year’s IC37 class winner, is excited about […]
Posted inSports
Young QBs in spotlight as Commanders, Patriots share field in scrappy joint practice
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Drake Maye isn’t exactly measuring himself against Jayden Daniels. But the New England Patriots quarterback is keeping tabs on what his Washington Commanders’ counterpart — and others from their draft class — are up to heading into their second NFL seasons. Maye and Daniels were on the field together Wednesday for […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Preserve Rhode Island announces 2025 Rhody Awards, recognizes 10 historic preservation projects
Preserve Rhode Island announced on Wednesday 10 recipients of the 2025 Rhody Awards for Historic Preservation, celebrating projects that utilize historic preservation to strengthen communities, improve quality of life, and address social challenges across the state. The awards recognize achievements spanning from Westerly to Pawtucket to Tiverton, demonstrating preservation efforts that impact communities statewide. This […]
Posted inCity & Government
Aquidneck Night Out returns to Eastons Beach Thursday evening
NEWPORT, R.I. — The Newport Police Department will host its annual Aquidneck Night Out from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Eastons Beach, bringing together families and law enforcement for an evening of community engagement. The free event at 175 Memorial Blvd. will feature music, games, and special appearances from community partners. Activities include face […]
Posted inNews, Police & Fire
Woman, dog rescued from rocks at Beavertail State Park
JAMESTOWN, R.I. — A woman and her dog were rescued from rocks at Beavertail State Park Wednesday morning after becoming trapped between parking lots 1 and 2, according to the Jamestown Volunteer Fire Department. The fire alarm was received at 10:21 a.m., alerting crews to the situation at the popular coastal destination. First-arriving companies made […]
Posted inNews, Nonprofit
Seaside Sips raises $65,000 for domestic violence services
NEWPORT — The Women’s Resource Center raised $65,000 at its annual Seaside Sips fundraiser last week, bringing together more than 100 guests at The Bohlin for an evening supporting domestic violence survivors and prevention efforts. The dockside event featured testimonials from survivors posted throughout the venue, highlighting the center’s impact on those it serves. One […]
Posted inNews, Nonprofit
Jay Leno shows raise $70,486 for MLK Community Center
Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. CEO Brendan O’Donnell delivered a $70,486 check Tuesday to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, representing complete proceeds from Jay Leno’s four sold-out comedy shows in July. The donation came from Leno’s July 9-12 performances at the brewery as part of its 2025 Summer Series. Tickets were […]
Posted inArts & Culture
“French in Newport” kicked off NHS’s exciting Revolution250 foray
Last month, the French arrived in Newport’s Washington Square thanks to the Newport Historical Society (NHS), in collaboration with the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary National Historical Trail. Historical 18th-century re-enactors took over the square to give demonstrations of woodworking and cider making. There were Colonial tea tastings (the Peach was my favorite), others got their Colonial […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter to the Editor: Council member’s claims of ‘mass misrepresentation’ are themselves misleading
I am writing this rebuttal to the statements and claims of “mass misrepresentation” made by Town Council member Barbara Von Villas regarding the opposition to the current Middletown Center plan being pushed on the residents of Middletown. Additionally to her claims of “leading to misinformation and/or misinterpretation rather than fact. Ms VonVillas gives absolutely no […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport Pickleball Club to add first padel courts on Aquidneck Island
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Wednesday, Aug. 6, the 218th day of 2025. There are 147 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Newport Pickleball Club announced Tuesday it will expand its 2.75-acre campus to include the first outdoor padel courts on Aquidneck Island, with plans to open in 2026. The […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Margery A. Cousens
Margery Ann (Poole) Cousens, 88, of Middletown, passed away on July 18, 2025. She was the wife of the late Denys Cousens. Margery, also lovingly known by her nickname Polly, was born on November 21,1936 in Coventry, England. She spent her childhood years growing up in Meriden, England with her parents, Sarah and Victor Poole, […]
Posted inSports
Crochet, Story lead Red Sox to 7th straight win over Royals
BOSTON (AP) — Garrett Crochet scattered four hits over seven innings and Trevor Story hit a blooper into center field to break a sixth-inning tie on Tuesday night and led the Boston Red Sox to their seventh straight win, 6-2 over the Kansas City Royals. Crochet (13-4) struck out eight to win his ninth consecutive […]
Posted inOpinion
Letter to the Editor: Change is inevitable
There has been a mass of misrepresentation related to Middletown’s West Main Road project. Most of it is built on emotional or personal bias leading to misinformation and/or misinterpretation rather than fact. As a result, productive action related to increasing housing within the project (as well as in other areas of the Town) has been […]
Posted inReal Estate
Newport Harbor condo sells for $3.075 million, third-highest of 2025
NEWPORT — A luxury condominium at 24 Brown and Howard Wharf sold for $3.075 million, marking the third-highest condo sale in Newport this year, according to Multiple Listing Service data. The two-bedroom unit (unit #303) at Brown and Howard Wharf Residences was one of the largest dwellings in the waterfront complex. Nicole Carstensen of Mott […]
Posted inCity & Government
Rhode Island named on federal ‘sanctuary jurisdiction’ list
Rhode Island was identified Tuesday as one of 13 states with policies that federal officials say impede immigration law enforcement, according to a list published by the U.S. Department of Justice. The Ocean State joined California, New York, Illinois and nine other states on the list mandated by President Donald Trump’s April executive order directing […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Newport Folk, Jazz festivals announce 2026 dates
NEWPORT, R.I. — Fresh off the heels of another pair of sold-out festivals, the Newport Festivals Foundation announced Tuesday the dates for next year’s marquee events, giving music fans something to look forward to as summer 2025 winds down. The Newport Folk Festival will return to Fort Adams State Park July 24-26, 2026, while the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The Newport Show sets fundraising record for local nonprofits
The 18th annual Newport Show raised a record amount for the Newport Historical Society and Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County during its three-day run at St. George’s School last weekend. The exhibition of art, antiques and design has now generated $4.75 million for both nonprofit organizations since the show’s inception in 2007. “The […]
Posted inReal Estate
Little Compton Colonial sets 2025 sales record at $2.05 million
LITTLE COMPTON, R.I. — A three-bedroom Colonial on Old Bull Lane has sold for $2.05 million, marking the highest residential sale in Little Compton this year, according to State-Wide MLS data. Residential Properties Ltd. sales associate Mimi Whitmarsh represented both the buyer and seller in the transaction at 22 Old Bull Lane, which closed recently. […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Barry Murphy
Barry Murphy, Lt. Col. USMC (Ret.), age 87, passed away on July 28, 2025, in Middletown, Rhode Island. Born on July 15, 1938, in Winchester, MA, Barry graduated from Boston College and joined the Marine Corps in 1960. After a Marine Corps career spanning 22 years, Barry moved with his family to Middletown, RI where […]
Posted inNews, Sports, Things To Do
Comedian Hannah Berner, Tennis Star James Blake complete lineup for Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic
NEWPORT, R.I. — Standup comedian and New York Times bestselling author Hannah Berner and former world No. 4 James Blake will join the lineup for the first-ever Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic presented by Fidelity Investments, the International Tennis Hall of Fame announced Tuesday. The inaugural event will take place on the hall’s iconic […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: William T. Duba
Retired Army Colonel William T. “Bill” Duba, 98, formerly of Admiral Kalbfus Rd, died July 27, 2025 at the RI Veterans Home in Bristol, RI. Welcomed in heaven by his beloved wife Elizabeth L. LaFramboise Duba, son William T. Duba, Jr., sister Jean Marie Kilpatrick, brother John G. Duba, father John Duba, and mother Helen […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Dolores Santos-Coull
Dolores (Evans) Santos-Coull’s body and mind peacefully joined our Heavenly Father on July 24, 2025, at the age of 93. Born to Michael and Anna (Tomchick) Evans, Dolores was raised with a strong sense of faith, family, and resilience. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, her brother Donald Evans, and two cherished husbands-James B. Santos, whom […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Governor McKee signs legislation raising Rhode Island minimum wage to $17
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Tuesday, Aug. 5, the 217th day of 2025. There are 148 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Gov. Dan McKee on Monday signed legislation that will increase Rhode Island’s minimum wage from $15 to $17 over the next two years, benefiting an estimated 50,000 workers […]
Posted inReal Estate
What Sold: A look at 21 home sales in Newport County (July 28 – Aug. 1)
Another busy week in Newport County with 21 homes sold across our community, ranging from a $295,000 manufactured home in Tiverton to a beautiful $4,795,000 single-family on Catherine Street in Newport. Jamestown didn’t post any closed sales in the MLS last week, a rare pause for one of our most desirable towns. Even with a […]
Posted inSports
Red Sox ride Duran HR, strong outing from Bello to 6th straight win, beating Royals 8-5
BOSTON (AP) — Jarren Duran hit a three-run homer and Brayan Bello pitched six effective innings, helping the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 8-5 on Monday night for their sixth consecutive victory. Rob Refsnyder drove in two runs, and Duran added a leaping, run-saving catch in front of the Green Monster in the fourth. […]
Posted inCity & Government
Judge rules that Rhode Island’s gun permit system does not violate Second Amendment
By KIMBERLEE KRUESI Associated Press PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A federal judge says Rhode Island’s gun permit system, which requires residents to show “a need” to openly carry a firearm throughout the state, does not violate the Second Amendment. In a ruling handed down Friday, U.S. District Judge William Smith granted Rhode Island Attorney General […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport Navy Chorus seeks new singers for upcoming season
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Monday, Aug. 4, the 216th day of 2025. There are 149 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Newport Navy Chorus is calling for new vocalists to join its ranks for the 2025-26 season, welcoming singers of all voice ranges to participate in community benefit […]
Posted inArts & Culture
71st Newport Jazz Festival concludes with perfect weather, full crowds
NEWPORT, R.I. — The 71st Newport Jazz Festival wrapped up Sunday evening at Fort Adams State Park under perfect weather conditions, capping three days of sold-out performances that showcased everything from high-energy acts to traditional jazz, proving one thing for certain: Jazz music is fun. Friday’s opening day featured a unique educational component as high […]
Posted inNews, Nonprofit
Portsmouth community raises more than $35,000 for teens affected by building collapse
PORTSMOUTH — The Aquidneck Island community gathered Tuesday evening at Green Valley Country Club to support two local teens whose lives were forever changed by a tragic building collapse last month. The “Portsmouth Strong” dinner, hosted by the Four Hearts Foundation and sponsored by Green Valley Country Club and Little Rhody Pasta, raised more than $35,000 […]
Posted inSports
Newport Gulls advance to NECBL Semifinals with 5-4 victory over Mystic
The Newport Gulls punched their ticket to the New England Collegiate Baseball League semifinals Sunday night, defeating the Mystic Schooners 5-4 in a thrilling Game 3 at Cardines Field before 2,451 fans. Leighton Harris earned the victory in relief for Newport, throwing three scoreless innings to close out the game. Marcel Kulik recorded the save […]
Posted inSports
Top of the Morning: Red Sox beat sloppy Astros 6-1 behind Lucas Giolito’s stellar start
By KEN POWTAK Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — Trevor Story and Ceddanne Rafaela had consecutive RBI singles in a six-run fourth inning filled with five Houston mistakes, Lucas Giolito pitched a season-high eight stellar innings, and the Boston Red Sox beat the Astros 6-1 on Sunday to complete a series sweep. Connor Wong added a […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport Gulls, Mystic Schooners set for winner-take-all game 3 at Cardines Field
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Sunday, Aug. 3, the 215th day of 2025. There are 150 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Newport Gulls will host the Mystic Schooners in a winner-take-all Game 3 of their New England Collegiate Baseball League quarterfinal series tonight at 6:35 p.m. at Cardines Field. […]
Posted inNews
71st Newport Jazz Festival opens with student performances, star-studded lineup
NEWPORT, R.I. — The 71st Newport Jazz Festival kicked off Friday at Fort Adams State Park, combining the energy of emerging talent with legendary performers across three days of music that has drawn sold-out crowds to Newport’s iconic waterfront venue. Friday’s opening day featured a unique educational component as high school students from across the […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Gregory Beaucage
Gregory Beaucage was a great many things to a great many people. The scope would be impossible to cover, but what can we do but try? A scientist known around the world and a teacher loved by so many of his students. World traveler, aid worker, frequent player (and occasional winner) of Spades. A ferocious […]
Posted inNews
Notes: Newport organizations launch summer campaign to boost bicycle transportation
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Saturday, Aug. 2, the 214th day of 2025. There are 151 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Bike Newport has partnered with 11th Hour Racing and local businesses this summer to encourage more residents and visitors on Aquidneck Island to choose bicycles over cars for […]
Posted inSports
Roman Anthony’s walk-off single lifts Red Sox over Astros 2-1 in 10 innings
BOSTON (AP) — Roman Anthony lined a fly ball over drawn-in center fielder Chas McCormick’s head to score the automatic runner from third, and the Boston Red Sox rallied in the 10th inning to beat the new-look Houston Astros 2-1 on Friday night. Boston trailed 1-0 on Christian Walker’s second-inning home run before tying it […]
Posted inColumns, Opinion
Helen Hames: Peter Martin Is winding up a good guy’s life in overtime
I met Peter Martin at his first-floor condo on another humid day in the heart of Newport. It didn’t take long to see that Peter set himself up thoughtfully for this stage in life. At 84, Peter is surrounded by memories–just steps away from the neighborhood where he grew up and the school he once […]
Posted inColumns, Opinion
Dr. Michael Fine: Two kinds of crazy
The first part of this week’s comment is about health, not health care. RIPTA, the organization that runs the buses in Rhode Island, is planning the largest set of route cuts in its history – to save $17.6 million. (There was a public hearing on this in Newport on Tuesday.) These cuts seem like a […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Richard Walz
Richard R. Walz, Jr., 89, of Swansea, Massachusetts, died on July 29, 2025. He was the husband of Theresa (Liberty) Walz. Born in Holyoke, MA, on March 17, 1936, he was the son of the late Richard R. Walz and Ana (DiVirgilio) Walz.Richard grew up in Western Mass and entered the US Navy in 1954 as […]
Posted inNews
Morning Notes: Newport Jazz Festival expands beyond Fort Adams with four intimate shows
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Friday, Aug. 1, the 213th day of 2025. There are 152 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know As the 2025 Newport Jazz Festival officially launches today at Fort Adams State Park with sold-out crowds, jazz enthusiasts who missed out on the main event have multiple […]
Posted inSports
Gulls ready for playoff redemption after regular season finale loss
The Newport Gulls wrapped up their regular season Wednesday night with a 21-10 loss to the Mystic Schooners at Cardines Field, but for a team that had already clinched the Southern Division title, the result was far less important than what lies ahead. With nothing left to prove in the regular season, Newport treated the […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Doris A. Sullivan
Doris Anne Sullivan, lovingly known to many as “Mamma D”, passed away peacefully in the late morning of Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Rhode Island Hospital, after a months-long struggle with heart complications. She was 77. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, life partner, and cherished friend, Doris’s heart both literal and symbolic was her compass. […]
Posted inNews, Nonprofit
Redwood Library reaches $5 million endowment campaign goal
The Redwood Library & Athenaeum announced Monday it has successfully reached its $5 million endowment campaign goal, concluding a fundraising effort that began in 2019 but was interrupted by the pandemic and restarted in 2023. The campaign’s success brings the nation’s first purpose-built library’s total endowment to approximately $17 million, which will fund the upkeep […]
Posted inCity & Government
Newport Police issue traffic advisory for this weekend’s Jazz Festival
The Newport Police Department has issued a traffic advisory ahead of the sold-out Newport Jazz Festival, which kicks off tomorrow at Fort Adams State Park and runs through Sunday, August 3. According to Lieutenant Joseph C. Carroll, the department’s Public Information Officer, festival-goers should expect significant traffic delays beginning at 8:00 a.m. each day on […]
Posted inReal Estate
Listing of the Week: A coastal classic off of Indian Avenue, 78 Cornelius Drive
Some places just feel different. For those familiar with Aquidneck Island, Indian Avenue is one of those rare stretches of road where peace, privacy, and timeless beauty converge. Tucked just off this scenic and desired street, in a quiet corner of Portsmouth on the Middletown line, sits a home that hasn’t changed hands since the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Jazz quartet to perform at NIMFest Summer Concert Series Sunday
The John McKenna Quartet will perform at the Newport Independent Music Festival concert series Sunday, Aug. 3, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the King Park Gazebo. McKenna, a saxophonist, composer and music educator, teaches at the University of Rhode Island, UMass Dartmouth, Roger Williams University and the Community College of Rhode Island. The New […]
Posted inCity & Government, News
Trump administration cancels plans to develop new offshore wind projects
The Trump administration is canceling plans to use large areas of federal waters for new offshore wind development, the latest step to suppress the industry in the United States. More than 3.5 million acres had been designated wind energy areas, the offshore locations deemed most suitable for wind energy development. The Bureau of Ocean Energy […]
Posted inBusiness
CVS Health hikes 2025 forecast again, boosted by insurance, pharmacy businesses
By TOM MURPHY AP Health Writer CVS Health topped Wall Street expectations for the second quarter and hiked its full-year forecast again, as the health care giant continued to rally under new management from a forgettable 2024. The company said Thursday that it filled more prescriptions at its drugstores and an improving health insurance business fueled […]
Posted inNews
Morning Notes: JPT’s annual Big Lebowski Party returns tonight
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Thursday, July 31, the 212th day of 2025. There are 153 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Jane Pickens Theater will transform into The Dude’s favorite bowling alley tonight as Newport’s beloved summer tradition returns for another year. The annual Big Lebowski Party kicks […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rhode Island Foundation offers $30,000 grants to local visual artists
Rhode Island visual artists have until Aug. 14 to apply for $30,000 fellowships from the Rhode Island Foundation, among the largest no-strings-attached awards available to artists in the United States. The foundation will award grants to three emerging or mid-career visual artists through its Robert and Margaret MacColl Johnson Fellowship Fund. The awards are designed […]
Posted inReal Estate
Historic John Easton House sells for $4.8M in Newport’s Kay Catherine neighborhood
A historic residence in one of Newport’s most coveted neighborhoods has sold for $4,795,000, according to Hogan Associates Christie’s International Real Estate. The John Easton House at 23 Catherine St. in the Kay Catherine neighborhood closed this week. Matt Hadfield of Hogan Associates Christie’s International Real Estate represented the seller. “23 Catherine Street is the […]
Posted inNews
Brown University strikes agreement with Trump administration to restore lost federal funding
By COLLIN BINKLEY AP Education Writer WASHINGTON (AP) — Brown University will pay $50 million to Rhode Island workforce development organizations in a deal with the Trump administration that restores lost federal research funding and ends investigations into alleged discrimination, officials said Wednesday. The university also agreed to several concessions in line with President Donald Trump’s political agenda. Brown […]
Posted inCity & Government
No surveillance footage recovered after May fire that destroyed Matunuck Oyster Bar
by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current July 30, 2025 The Rhode Island Office of the State Fire Marshal ruled out arson two days after a serious fire swept through Matunuck Oyster Bar, forcing the popular oceanside dining destination to close. But determining what caused the May 20 fire remains a mystery, complicated by the fact […]
Posted inArts & Culture
newportFILM raises more than $375K at 15th Anniversary Summer Benefit
newportFILM raised more than $375,000 at its 15th Anniversary Summer Benefit on July 19, supporting the organization’s year-round documentary film programming and educational initiatives. Hundreds of guests gathered at IYRS’s Restoration Hall in Newport for the organization’s largest annual fundraiser. The event was presented by the Stratus Foundation/FlyAdvanced, with additional support from The Newport Experience […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Ann Marie DiSalvo
Ann Marie DiSalvo, 70, passed away at home in Middletown RI on July 22, 2025. Born in Fall River MA, she was the daughter of the late William and Lydia (Nunes) DiSalvo. Raised in Warren RI, Ann Marie had a love for travel, where she created cherished memories with family and friends. Whether it was […]
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Morning Notes: Air Quality Alert issued for Washington, Newport Counties due to elevated ozone levels
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Wednesday, July 30, the 211th day of 2025. There are 154 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has issued an air quality alert for Wednesday, warning that ozone levels will reach unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups in Washington […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Shirley H. Laske
Shirley Ann (Seil, Harrison) Laske, 97, of Middletown, RI passed away on July 21, 2025 in Newport, RI. Shirley was born in Milwaukee, WI on May 18, 1928. She and her parents, Dala Frances Harrison, and Chester Thomas Harrison, resided in Waldo, WI. Shirley attended school at Waldo Elementary School and Waldo High School, where […]
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What’sUpNewp Interview: Grammy winner Maren Morris, whose Dreamsicle tour begins today, talks about her Newport experience
Maren Morris, renowned American singer-songwriter who won a Grammy in 2017 for Best Country Solo Performance, electrified the Newport Folk Festival stages this past weekend. Morris spoke with What’sUpNewp before her Sunday set on the Quad Stage. Having played Newport Folk in the past, Morris shared how this year was different. “It was the most […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Made in Newport: The JPT celebrates films shot in city
The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) will showcase Newport’s starring role in Hollywood productions with a week-long “Made in Newport” film series running from August 2 to 7. The series pairs screenings of movies filmed in the coastal city with local business pop-ups, live music and beverage tastings, offering audiences a chance […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Comedian Juston McKinney to perform at The JPT in November
Comedian Juston McKinney will perform at The JPT Film & Event Center on Friday, Nov. 14, at 7:30 p.m., Spectacle Live announced Tuesday. Tickets go on sale Friday, Aug. 1, at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at JanePickens.com or by calling 1-800-657-8774. McKinney has made multiple appearances on “The Tonight Show” and has two […]
Posted inNews
How gas prices have changed in Rhode Island in the last week
Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Rhode Island. Gas prices are as of July 28.Rhode Island by the numbers- Gas current price: $3.02- Week change: -$0.01 (-0.4%)- Year change: -$0.40 (-11.7%)- Historical expensive gas price: $5.02 (6/13/22)- Diesel current price: $3.81- Week change: $0.00 (0.0%)- Year change: -$0.30 (-7.3%)- Historical expensive diesel price: $6.47 […]
Posted inCity & Government
House Speaker to join rally against Newport Birthing Center closure
Community members will rally tonight to oppose the potential closure of the only labor and delivery unit on Aquidneck Island. The “Moms Over Margins Rally” to save the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center at Newport Hospital is scheduled for 6 p.m. today on the lawn outside Newport City Hall on Broadway. The location was changed […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Patricia Wayland
Patricia Wayland, age 87, formerly of Bristol and Portsmouth, Rhode Island, passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Patricia was the daughter of the late Frank and Anna Whalen of Watertown, NY. She was the sister of one loving brother, Edward F. Whalen, now deceased of Rochester, NY. Patricia is survived by three children, Michael […]
Posted inNews
Morning Notes: Newport seeks volunteers for City Boards and Commissions
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Tuesday, July 29, the 210th day of 2025. There are 155 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know The City of Newport is recruiting residents to serve on various boards, commissions and authorities that play vital roles in municipal government operations. The city is currently accepting […]
Posted inReal Estate
What Sold: Newport County sees 17 homes trade hands last week as market activity remains consistent
The real estate market in Newport County continues to hold steady as 17 homes changed hands last week, reflecting what we expected to be a very active summer season. While that may not be the case, and the days of frenzied bidding wars and packed open houses may be behind us, serious buyers and sellers […]
Posted inObituaries
Obituary: Theresa Silvia
Theresa (Joseph) (Abenante) Silvia, 83, lovingly known as “Ma” and “G-Ma,” passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, surrounded by her family. A proud native of Bristol, RI, and longtime resident of Portsmouth, Theresa embraced the charm of small-town life and made an unforgettable impact on everyone she met. Preceded in death by her […]
Posted inNews, Sports
Newport’s Callahan dominates Long Beach regatta, eyes 2028 Olympics
Newport sailor Justin Callahan launched his 2028 Olympic campaign with a commanding victory at the Long Beach Olympic Class Regatta, finishing with just 15 points over 12 races in the 470 class. The Harvard University senior and reigning College Sailor of the Year captured eight first-place finishes during the July 12-18 competition, sailing alongside crew […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Rising seas, vanishing voices: An Indigenous story from Martha’s Vineyard
“This story was originally published by Grist. Sign up for Grist’s weekly newsletter here.” When former Grist fellow Joseph Lee tells people that his family is from Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts, they invariably look confused about what it means to be from a popular vacation spot for U.S. presidents and […]
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Hairspray’ at Theatre by the Sea: A rare musical exception
It’s not often you’ll see a musical and have nothing but good things to say about it. The current production of “Hairspray” at Theatre by the Sea is that rare exception. In the first ten minutes, you’re treated to high-octane production numbers with “Good Morning, Baltimore” and “Nicest Kids in Town,” and you can’t help […]
Posted inNews
Channing Memorial Church names first Black minister in 190-year history
Channing Memorial Church announced the selection of the Rev. Dr. Althea Smith as the congregation’s new minister, making her the first African American to lead the historic Unitarian Universalist congregation in its 190-year history. Rev. Smith, a community activist with an extensive background in nursing and psychology, comes to Channing from the Unitarian Universalist congregation […]
Posted inNews, Weather
Air quality alert issued for Newport, Washington counties Tuesday
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has issued an air quality alert for Newport and Washington counties Tuesday, warning that ground-level ozone is expected to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. The alert covers only the two southern counties, with the highest ozone concentrations forecast along the immediate coastline. Peak levels are expected to […]
Posted inNews
Things to do in Newport County this week and weekend: July 28 – Aug. 3
Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in Newport County this week and weekend. Are you organizing an event? Submit events to our community calendar. Monday, July 28 Things To Do 10 am: Free self-guided tours at Eisenhower House 3 pm: Jamestown Farmers Market at Jamestown Recreation Center 3 pm: Newport Gulls versus Danbury Westerners at Cardines Field 5:30 pm: Seaside Sips with […]
Posted inNews
Morning Notes: Community rally set for Tuesday to fight potential closure of Birthing Center
Good morning, Newport! 🗓️ Today is Monday, July 28, the 209th day of 2025. There are 156 days left in the year. 🚨 You need to know Community members will rally Tuesday evening to oppose the potential closure of the only labor and delivery unit on Aquidneck Island. The Community Rally to Save the Noreen […]