Posted inBusiness

Foodlove Market to close, Newport Restaurant Group plans new concept

Newport Restaurant Group announced the permanent closure of Foodlove Market, set for January 25. The market, which opened in August 2021, will cease operations despite growing year-over-year sales and strong community support. In a statement posted on social media and the company’s website, Newport Restaurant Group explains the decision stems from “unsustainable losses” despite the […]

Posted inCity & Government

Mass deportations don’t keep out ‘bad genes’ − they use scientific racism to justify biased immigration policies

Shoumita Dasgupta, Boston University Threats of mass deportations loom on the post-2024 election horizon. Some supporters claim these will protect the country from immigrants who bring “bad genes” into America. But this is a misguided use of the language of science to give a sheen of legitimacy to unscientific claims. Politicians invoke genetics to confirm […]

Posted inEnvironment & Health

2024’s extreme ocean heat breaks records again, leaving 2 mysteries to solve

The oceans are heating up as the planet warms. This past year, 2024, was the warmest ever measured for the global ocean, following a record-breaking 2023. In fact, every decade since 1984, when satellite recordkeeping of ocean temperatures started, has been warmer than the previous one. A warmer ocean means increased evaporation, which in turn […]

Posted inSports

New England hires former Patriots Super Bowl champ Mike Vrabel as its next coach

The New England Patriots have hired Mike Vrabel as their head coach. The team announced the hiring Sunday morning, a week after Patriots owner Robert Kraft fired Jerod Mayo following the team’s season-ending victory over the Buffalo Bills. Mayo finished 4-13 in his lone season. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Byron Leftwich, former Houston Texans offensive […]

Posted inReal Estate

Waterfront home in South Kingstown sells for $3.55 million

A waterfront home in South Kingstown recently fetched $3.55 million. Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty recently announced the sale of 841 Green Hill Beach Road, South Kingstown. According to a press release from Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty, the sellers were represented by Charlotte Fiola, Sales Associate of Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty. Kira Greene […]

Posted inColumns

Dr. Michael Fine: What’s crazy about killing managed care executives in the street

Full disclosure: I hate United Health Care and have hated them for thirty-five years since they bought out Ocean State Physicians Health Plan and became the second-largest health insurer in Rhode Island in the late 1980s.  I think they are predatory and manipulative and leverage market power inappropriately in pursuit of profit, making a critical public […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Charles L. Roberts: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – The enduring power of his legacy

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech from the 1963 March on Washington are synonymous with the struggle for civil rights. His legacy transcends generations and racial lines, celebrated worldwide by people of all backgrounds. Like other American icons—JFK, LBJ, or Malcolm X—history has shortened King’s name to initials […]

Posted inBusiness

The Heritage Restaurant Group officially closes on The Red Parrot Restaurant

The Heritage Restaurant Group today announced the completion of its acquisition of The Red Parrot restaurant. The transaction was first announced in October 2024 and officially closed yesterday, January 10, 2025. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. As part of the transition, Russ and EstherDulac, The Red Parrot’s previous owners, will remain with the restaurant, as consultants, to ensure operational […]

Posted inReal Estate

‘Summer Cottage’ on Catherine Street in Newport sells for $3.775 million

“Summer Cottage,” a single-family home at 21 Catherine Street in Newport, recently sold for $3,775,000. Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty announced the sale in a press release on Friday, January 10. of 21 Catherine Street, Newport for $3,775,000.  According to Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty, the buyers were represented by Kylie McCollough, Sales Associate of Mott […]

Posted inCity & Government

State sends official letters to individuals impacted by RIBridges data breach

Governor Dan McKee announced that letters from the State of Rhode Island are being mailed today, January 10, 2025, to individuals impacted by the breach of the RIBridges database managed by Deloitte. The letters confirm that cybercriminals breached personal data belonging to the recipient or someone in their care. The letters will also provide directions […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island legislature kicks off 2025 session with focus on housing and healthcare

The Rhode Island General Assembly convened this week to begin its 2025-2026 term, with both chambers re-electing their leadership and welcoming new members. Speaker of the House K. Joseph Shekarchi and Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio were chosen to continue leading their respective chambers, outlining ambitious agendas for the upcoming session. Shekarchi, a Democrat representing […]

Posted inBusiness

Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island acquires Outer Light Brewing Company

Today, Westerly-based Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island (Grey Sail) and Groton, Connecticut-based Outer Light Brewing Company (Outer Light) jointly announced a formal partnership. “Grey Sail’s acquisition of Outer Light enhances the Westerly brewery’s regional portfolio of craft beer and spirits,” Grey Sail says in a press release. “This acquisition represents the union of two brands committed to the local […]

Posted inNews

Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority’s Weekly Lane Closure Schedule: Jan. 12 – 18

The Rhode Island Turnpike And Bridge Authority has provided the following schedule of lane closure updates for Sunday, January 12, through Saturday, January 18. Newport Claiborne Pell BridgeThere are currently no lane closures planned for the Newport Claiborne Pell Bridge. Former Toll Plaza:Westbound Alternating Right and Left Lane Closures- 1/13 to 1/17- 7 am to […]

Posted inCity & Government

Aquidneck Island legislators join members of General Assembly calling on Governor to declare homelessness a public health emergency

A group of 44 legislators called on Gov. Dan McKee to declare homelessness a public health emergency today. “Your leadership is needed now to protect and save the lives of Rhode Islanders across our state, including our working class neighbors, our children, and our veterans,” they said in their statement to the governor. Six legislators […]

Posted inNews, Sports

Brayden Point reaches 600 career points in Lightning’s 4-1 victory over the Bruins

By ERIK ERLENDSSON Associated Press TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Brayden Point reached 600 career points with a power-play goal, Andrei Vasilevskiy made 27 saves and the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Boston Bruins 4-1 on Thursday night. Brandon Hagel had a goal and an assist, Michael Eyssimont and Anthony Cirelli scored goals 5:03 apart in […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Third season of ‘The TennisWorthy Podcast’ launches with Patrick McEnroe as new host

The third season of the TennisWorthy Podcast presented by the International Tennis Hall of Fame officially launched today, featuring Hall of Fame President and tennis commentator Patrick McEnroe as its new host. The International Tennis Hall of Fame announced the new season via a press release. Here’s what they included in the release; McEnroe and tennis journalist […]

Posted inNews

Aquidneck Island Wrestling splits dual meet at Gaudet Middle School

Aquidneck Island Wrestling had a mixed night at Gaudet Middle School on Wednesday, January 8. The team, which brings together wrestlers from Middletown, Rogers, and Portsmouth high schools, lost their first match against Lincoln 45-33 but rallied to edge out East Greenwich 38-37 in the second contest. Despite the initial setback, the Aquidneck Island squad […]

Posted inJobs

Movies and TV shows casting 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 inCity & Government

As wind-chill approaches zero, we take a look at Rhode Island’s homeless population

Russ Partridge is executive director of three homeless shelters in Rhode Island’s shoreline communities, He’s been working in homeless shelters, saving so many families and individuals, for four decades, and is respected as among the most knowledgeable about that population and affordable housing in Rhode Island. As temperatures plummeted to near zero wind-chill, we sat […]

Posted inCity & Government

NUWC Division Newport employee shares family legacy with USS Fort Lauderdale

Story by Public Affairs Office , Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport When the USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28) docked at Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island from Nov. 21-24, it was especially meaningful for a Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport employee whose family name is linked to the ship’s name. John Lauderdale, a resident […]

Posted inReal Estate

What Sold: A look at 17 recent real estate sales across Newport County (Dec. 30 – Jan. 3 )

Newport County’s real estate market remains active, as evidenced by the 17 homes that sold just last week. These recent sales are a clear indication that demand for properties in this coastal area remains strong. While home prices are higher than ever, the outlook for 2025 is optimistic, despite the ongoing competitiveness of the market. […]

Posted inEnvironment & Health, News, Nonprofit

Norman Bird Sanctuary to kick off 2025 by sharing results of Rhode Island BioBlitz

Norman Bird Sanctuary is inviting community members to attend a presentation on the results of BioBlitz 2024. Participants in the 24-hour biodiversity survey investigated the Sanctuary’s 300 acres, including coastal forest and shrubland, fields, streams, swamps, and beaches for all manners of life. The event broke several records, including the number of participants (385) and […]

Posted inCity & Government

Middletown Town Council looks for affordable housing, state aid, traffic on state agenda

This story by Matt Sheley, Public Affairs Officer for the Town of Middletown, originally appeared here. The Town Council would like affordable housing, educational aid and transportation safety featured prominently on the General Assembly agenda for 2025. During a well-attended session Monday in Town Hall, council members met with State Senator Louis P. DiPalma and […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

Middletown teen honored as New England Patriots ‘Difference Maker of the Week’

Ellie Grimm, a 17-year-old from Middletown, has been named a 2024 Patriots Difference Maker of the Week for her decade-long commitment to The Confetti Foundation. The New England Patriots Foundation recognized Grimm during a special pregame ceremony at Gillette Stadium on Jan. 5. Chairman and CEO of the Kraft Group and the New England Patriots […]

Posted inCity & Government

Middletown seeks residents for new Library Building Committee

Middletown is putting together a Library Building Committee to oversee the renovation of the town’s new library, and they’re looking for residents to join. The committee, set up by town ordinance, will have up to 11 voting members who’ll guide the design and reconstruction process. If you’re a Middletown resident with experience in architecture, engineering, […]

Posted inNews

Traffic Alert: Disabled vehicle on Newport Pell Bridge has been cleared

The disabled vehicle on the eastbound side of the Newport Pell Bridge has been cleared, according to the Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority (RITBA). #NPBridge ALERT UPDATE: Disabled vehicle eastbound has been cleared. Please drive carefully.— RITBA (@RIEZPASS) January 8, 2025 At 8:19 am on Wednesday, January 8, RITBA issued the following traffic alert. […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

Historic Ordination: United Congregational Church ordains first woman pastor in 330 Years

United Congregational Church in Middletown has reached a historic milestone by ordaining its first woman pastor in 330 years. Rev. Patricia Berry’s path to ordination began in Bar Harbor, Maine, where she was a young mother. A career move brought her family to Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, where she took on the role of Christian Education Director […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Newport Car Museum reflects on 2024, looks forward to 2025

Milestones in 2024 for Portsmouth’s Newport Car Museum included averaging over 2,000 visitors a week during the summer months, being named to Tripadvisor’s top 10 percent of attractions worldwide (for a second time), and topping 100 cars on display while officially completing the Porsche wonderland that comprises a seventh gallery for all to enjoy. Foreign visitors were […]

Posted inCity & Government

R.I. Senate plays musical chairs after divided caucus vote for Ruggerio

by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current January 7, 2025 Senate President Dominick Ruggerio repeatedly assured colleagues there would be no retribution against those who voted against him in a contested caucus election two days after the November general election.  But the new leadership roles bestowed upon his supporters and taken away from opponents might suggest […]

Posted inCity & Government

New study from RI Hospitality Association and Salve Regina University reveals $114 million negative economic impact from Washington Bridge closure

A comprehensive economic impact study conducted by Salve Regina University’s Econometrics class (ECN-240) in partnership with the RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) has revealed significant economic consequences to Rhode Island’s hospitality sector following the December 2023 closure of the Washington Bridge. According to a press release from RIHA, the report highlights a projected $114 million loss in statewide hospitality-related revenue during the first 12 […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Registration opens for Save The Bay’s BayCamps

Registration for Rhode Island’s only week-long, Narragansett Bay-based summer camp opens today – Tuesday, January 7! Save The Bay’s BayCamps invite young explorers in grades K-12 to spend their summer along Rhode Island’s coast, learning about local waters, species, and habitats while taking an educational dive into the environmental and marine sciences. With full-day, week-long […]

Posted inReal Estate

Half of renters pay more than 30% of their income on shelter amid worsening affordable housing shortage. Here’s how Rhode Island compares.

The portion of Americans contributing more than a third of their income to rent has been rising for the past two decades, and today, it sits at around half of all renters, according to recently released Census data collected in 2023. Since 2021, the cost of housing has been one of the most persistent and […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island activates Emergency Winter Hubs as Polar Vortex approaches

Governor Dan McKee is mobilizing resources across Rhode Island to protect residents from an impending polar vortex, with a focus on supporting those experiencing homelessness. The state is activating emergency winter hubs through the Municipal Homelessness Support Initiative to provide additional overnight capacity. These hubs will be open without referral requirements starting tonight and continuing […]

Posted inNews

Barrington edges out Portsmouth and Mount Hope in gymnastics meet

Barrington High School’s gymnastics team won in a close three-way meet against Portsmouth and Mt. Hope at the Newport YMCA on Sunday, January 5. The competition was tight, with Barrington scoring 135.3 points, just ahead of Portsmouth’s 133.125 and Mt. Hope’s 131.775. RIIL Gymnastic Competition Score Sheet This competitive showdown demonstrates the talent and dedication […]

Posted inReal Estate

Newport Homeowners: Find savings with the Residential Tax Rate Program

Newport property owners, take note: The City of Newport’s Residential Tax Rate Program offers a fantastic opportunity to reduce your annual property tax bills. Whether you’re a homeowner or a landlord, this program could save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. With the enrollment period now open, it’s the perfect time to explore how you can […]

Posted inFood & Drink

Sardella’s celebrates 45 years with MLK Center fundraiser

Newport restaurants Sardella’s and Imbriglio’s are teaming up for a good cause this MLK holiday weekend. From January 17-20, they’re donating 20% of their sales or $10,000 (whichever is higher) to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Newport. Patrick Fitzgerald, who co-owns the restaurants with Richard Sardella, says he’s excited about supporting […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council to consider Easton’s Beach parking fee changes

The Newport City Council will consider significant changes to parking fees and regulations at Easton’s Beach during its January 8, 2025, meeting. The proposed amendments to city ordinances aim to increase revenue and simplify beach access for residents. Erik Reis, Recreation & Beach Administrator, will present the staff recommendation to update the Easton’s Beach Amenities […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council to discuss beach parking fees, naming of new skatepark, and more on Jan. 8

Newport City Council’s upcoming meeting on Jan. 8, 2025, is packed with a diverse range of topics. From harbor management to beach parking fees and infrastructure improvements, the council has a full plate. One of the main items up for discussion is an amendment to the 2010 Newport Harbor Management Plan. The Harbor Department and […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Oscar-shortlisted ‘Porcelain War’ to screen in Newport

newportFILM today announced that it is screening the Oscar-shortlisted documentary “PORCELAIN WAR” on January 9 at The Casino Theatre in Newport. This one-night-only event showcases the Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning film, which follows three Ukrainian artists as they find inspiration while defending their country during wartime. Film poster for Porcelain War. Credit: newportFILM The evening […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit, Things To Do

RENEWport Community Dinner aims to connect Newport families and build community

RENEWport will host a community dinner for families of Newport children in kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grades on January 16, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Pell Elementary School. Families are invited to connect with friends and local family-focused organizations while enjoying dinner, crafts, music, and more. Dinner is free and attendees are asked to RSVP […]

Posted inBusiness

Heritage Hotel Group to acquire Vanderbilt hotel

The Heritage Hotel Group is acquiring the historic Vanderbilt hotel, according to The Providence Journal. The Heritage Hotel Group shares ownership with the Heritage Restaurant Group, Audrain Hospitality, and Audrain Automobile Museum. Reporting from a press release, The Providence Journal shares that Auberge Resorts Collection will still manage the hotel, which is located at 41 […]

Posted inNews, Nonprofit

Newport Polo seeks 2025 Charity Ball beneficiary

Newport Polo is looking for nominations for the beneficiary of its 24th annual International Polo Charity Ball. The event is scheduled for Aug. 1, 2025, at the newly renovated Rosecliff mansion. They’re specifically interested in 501(c)3 charities that focus on environmental conservation, green initiatives, and sustainability. Dan Keating, who started Newport Polo, says community involvement […]

Posted inThings To Do

Preservation Society of Newport County looks back at year of accomplishments

Submitted by The Preservation Society of Newport County The opening of The Breakers third floor to the public for the first time in the mansion’s 129-year history and the installation of a geothermal climate-control system at Chateau-sur-Mer top the list of accomplishments by The Preservation Society of Newport County in 2024. The nonprofit organization, which […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Islanders’ data was leaked from a cyberattack on state health benefits website

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Cybercriminals who hacked Rhode Island’s system for health and benefits programs have released files to a site on the dark web, a scenario the state has been preparing for, Gov. Daniel McKee said Monday. The state has an outreach strategy to encourage potentially impacted Rhode Islanders to protect their personal information, […]

Posted inNews

Aquidneck Community Table awarded $745,346 to expand food and composting education in Newport schools

Aquidneck Community Table (ACT) today announced a $745,346 grant award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and R.I. Food Policy Council (RIFPC) to expand local food and composting education and services in area schools. The award is part of a broader $18.7M investment by the EPA to markedly reduce food waste in Rhode Island. […]

Posted inSports

Sean Monahan, Dmitri Voronkov each score twice to lead the Blue Jackets past the Bruins 6-2

By NICOLE KRAFT Associated Press COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Sean Monahan scored twice in his 800th NHL game, helping Columbus beat the Boston Bruins 6-2 Friday night and extending the Blue Jackets’ home win streak to three games. Dmitri Voronkov added two goals and an assist, extending his point streak to six games. Kirill Marchenko’s […]

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