Posted inCity & Government

How Rhode Island’s decreasing gasoline sales compare nationwide

Daily gasoline consumption in Rhode Island has fallen by 150,200 gallons over the past five years, Energy Information Administration data shows. Residents of Rhode Island purchased 1.6 million gallons of gas daily in 2021—the latest state-level data available—totaling about 1.5 gallons per person. This marks a 8.6% decrease since 2016, compared to a 5.7% decrease […]

Posted inNews

Quonset Port secures $11.25 million for infrastructure upgrades

The Port of Davisville at Quonset Point will receive $11.25 million in federal funding to improve terminal access, facilitate greater transport of large cargo, enhance security and free up land for future port expansion projects. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration is providing the funds through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. The grant was […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council-elect calls for letters of interest for key legal roles

Newport is now accepting applications for three part-time legal positions: City Solicitor, Municipal Court Judge, and Probate Judge. The newly elected Newport City Council announced Thursday that it’s looking for qualified Newport residents to fill these roles. The positions will run from Dec. 1, 2024, to Nov. 30, 2026. If you’re interested, you need to […]

Posted inElection

Letter to The Editor – Dennis Turano: Thank you to Middletown voters for selecting me to represent you

I want to express my deep gratitude to the voters of Middletown for re-electing me to Middletown Town Council. My priorities for the next two years include education, property tax reform, resident affordability, and the environment. I attended Middletown schools growing up and I am passionate about ensuring that our schools are setting students up […]

Posted inNews

Rhode Island becomes first state to launch Community EV Charging Expansion

Rhode Island became the first state in the U.S. to launch Phase 2 of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program on Thursday, November 14, 2024. This phase focuses on a community-based approach to expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure with an initial $10 million in competitive funding. The program, announced by Governor Dan McKee, […]

Posted inArts & Culture

‘Yacht Rock’ docks in Newport: HBO documentary gets special screening

Newport’s getting an exclusive look at HBO’s “YACHT ROCK: A DOCKUMENTARY” on November 21 at Newport Classical’s Recital Hall. newportFILM is hosting this one-night-only screening, giving locals a sneak peek at the film that dives into the soft rock craze of the late ’70s and early ’80s. The documentary features big names like Kenny Loggins, […]

Posted inBusiness

Jewelry designer Carolyn Rafaelian partners with Snoop Dogg for new brand

Carolyn Rafaelian, the renowned jewelry designer and founder of Metal Alchemist, is teaming up with rapper Snoop Dogg to launch a new fine jewelry brand called Lovechild. The collaboration, facilitated by Larry Jackson of gamma., aims to create jewelry that goes beyond aesthetics to serve as a source of empowerment for wearers. Lovechild is described […]

Posted inCity & Government

Three NUWC Division Newport engineering agents perform first modernizations to submarine in Australia

By NUWC Division Newport Public Affairs Traveling across the globe is nothing new for Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport In-Service Engineering Agents (ISEA) Matthew George, Daniel Braman and Dillon Savitzky, but the trio recently experienced a historic first Down Under. Members of the Handling Systems Engineering Branch in the Sensors and Sonar Systems […]

Posted inNews

Amtrak service along parts of the Northeast corridor resumes after disruptions on 2 days

NEW YORK (AP) — Amtrak service along sections of the Northeast corridor resumed Wednesday after disruptions on two consecutive days. Service between New York and New Haven, Connecticut, was restored about 24 hours after it was suspended because of a fire near a train route in New York City. Service also resumed between Philadelphia and Wilmington, Delaware, […]

Posted inCity & Government

Late to the livestreaming party, R.I. Commerce finally arrives with remote access to board meetings

by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island CurrentNovember 13, 2024 Rhode Island’s economic development agency has finally embraced livestream meeting culture, complete with its own YouTube page. Rhode Island Commerce Corporation quietly debuted its first livestream at its Oct. 28 meeting, notifying participants that they could watch the meeting, live or later, on the agency’s YouTube page. […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport Detective’s undercover operation leads to 10-year sentence for sex offender

A registered sex offender from Smithfield faces 10 years in federal prison following an undercover operation by a Newport Police Department detective. Mathew Hoard, 40, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted inducement of a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity, possession with intent to view child pornography, and attempted transfer of obscene material to […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport Public Schools see improvement in student attendance

Newport Public Schools are making strides in improving student attendance rates, with Thompson Middle School showing a notable 2.6% increase in average attendance compared to the previous week. The district’s efforts to boost student attendance were highlighted during a Newport School Committee Meeting on Tuesday, November 12 and in a press release from Governor Dan McKee and Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green […]

Posted inCity & Government

New Rogers High School 70% complete, City Council weighs final funding

The new Rogers High School building is approximately 70% complete and on schedule to open its doors to students in September 2025, according to an update provided at Tuesday’s Newport School Committee meeting. Louisa Boatwright, a member of the School Building Committee, reported that the project is progressing well and nearing its final funding phase. […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport School Committee approves cell phone policy development, discusses student success

The Newport School Committee held its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 12, at Pell Elementary School, addressing a range of topics from cell phone usage to student success initiatives during a three-hour meeting. In a significant move, the committee unanimously approved a motion to direct the administration to develop a draft cell phone policy for […]

Posted inEnvironment & Health

Listeria Recall: 4,500 pounds of meat and poultry products recalled nationwide

A recall has been issued for over 4,500 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products sent to retail locations nationwide because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health. The recalled products were produced by Yu Shang Food Inc. from Oct. 21-27 and have “use by” dates of […]

Posted inCity & Government

Reps. Carson, Cortvriend want to hear from you about short-term rental issues

The special legislative commission studying the economic and social effects of the short-term rental industry is now accepting testimony from the public. Representatives Lauren H. Carson and Terri Cortvriend are asking Aquidneck Islanders to make their voices heard. The Special Legislative Commission to Review and Provide Recommendations for Policies that Deal with Numerous Economic and […]

Posted inArts & Culture

The Jane Pickens Theater to screen ‘Repo Man’, ‘Beyond the Fantasy’, and ‘Luther: Never Too Much’

The Jane Pickens Theater & Event Center (The JPT) has an exciting lineup of films and events for guests to enjoy this November, including screenings of Repo Man, Beyond the Fantasy, and Luther: Never Too Much. “We’re thrilled to showcase such a unique variety of films this November,” said Alex Whitney, General Manager of The JPT. “From […]

Posted inFood & Drink

What’s in Season: Varieties of winter squash from Goodwin Brothers Farm prompts a simple meal to recognize Native American Heritage Month

Despite the unseasonably warm weather this November, the typical growing season in Rhode Island is drawing to a close. Many produce-selling farm stands hibernate for the winter, just as their Christmas tree farm counterparts prepare for the upcoming holidays. This does not mean, however, that it is impossible to buy fresh and local produce. It […]

Posted inOpinion

Just My Opinion: Rhode Island could learn from a Connecticut Commission dedicated to addressing ‘disconnected youth’

A sweeping report on the condition of some 119,000 impoverished Connecticut youth, characterized as “Connecticut’s Unspoken Crisis,” is headed to the state’s legislature, where commission members hope legislators approve hundreds of millions of dollars in critical programs. It’s a study that has not been replicated in other states, according to one of the commission members, […]

Posted inSports

Rhode Island FC heads to Charleston Battery for Eastern Conference Finals on Nov. 16

After a resounding 3-0 victory over 2024 Players’ Shield winners Louisville City FC on Saturday, Rhode Island FC is headed to Patriots Point Soccer Stadium in Mount Pleasant, S.C. to take on Charleston Battery in the USL Championship Eastern Conference Finals. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, Nov. 16. The historic match will livestream nationally […]

Posted inThings To Do

What’s Up in Newport: Nov. 11 – 18

Discover all that’s happening, new, and to do in and around Newport, Rhode Island, this week/weekend, Monday, November 11 through Monday, November 18, 2024. Are you organizing an event? Submit events to What’sUpNewp. Community Calendar Monday, November 11 Things To Do 12:30 pm: Miantonomi Park Tower open to the public Live Music & Entertainment Perro Salado: John […]

Posted inCity & Government, Election

Letter To The Editor: Mayor Xay Khamsavoravong, the leader Newport deserves

As a Marine, I’ve learned that true leadership means putting others before yourself, making tough decisions, and doing whatever it takes to serve the people depending on you. These qualities are rare, but I’ve had the privilege of seeing them firsthand in Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong. His unwavering commitment to Newport, his ability to deliver results, […]

Posted inReal Estate

On the Market: A look at 33 open houses happening this weekend in Newport County (Nov. 9 – 10)

Welcome to this week’s edition of “On the Market,” where we highlight real estate opportunities featuring 33 open houses happening across Newport County this weekend. This is a great opportunity to find your new home just in time to settle in before the holiday season. As we embrace fall, the Rhode Island real estate market […]

Posted inCity & Government

Op-Ed: Newport City Manager reflects on first 16 weeks of progress

As Newport’s City Manager, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many dedicated individuals to drive meaningful progress in just my first 16 weeks. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished since I began in mid-July:  1. Transportation and Pedestrian Safety: We’ve partnered with the City Council, RIDOT, Newport  Police, and community groups to improve pedestrian safety […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up in Newport: Friday, November 8

Good Morning! It’s Friday, November 8. 🗓️ Today is the 313th day of the year; 53 days remain in 2024. Today, we’re covering the Rogers High School construction project, the selection of Newport’s next mayor, top pumpkin ales to drink, and more. Please Note: It has been a long week and election season. I’m shutting off the daily […]

Posted inNews

Middletown to hold Veterans Day Ceremony

The Town of Middletown and VFW Post 4487 invite the community to a Veterans Day ceremony on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 11 am at Paradise Valley Park, 19 Prospect Avenue, to honor those who’ve served and safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy today. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included […]

Posted inCity & Government

Letter to the Editor: It is still Xay’s time!

Newport has a remarkable opportunity to continue positive change that Mayor Xay is bringing to our community through his dedication and expertise.  He gets the local economy and hospitality sector.  He listens intently to the issues on the minds of our diverse citizens.  He proactively seeks financial support for Newport’s aging infrastructure.  He understands the severe housing shortage the city faces.  We should be […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council to consider $2.9 million in additional funding for Rogers High School construction

The Newport City Council will consider a request for an additional $2.9 million in funding to complete construction of the new Rogers High School at its Nov. 13 meeting. City Manager Colin Kennedy is recommending the council approve one of three options to cover the funding gap: using $2.9 million in infrastructure bond proceeds, a […]

Posted inReal Estate

Home on Sachuest Drive in Middletown sells for $3.485 million

Hogan Associates Christie’s International Real Estate announced the November 6, 2024, sale of 18 Sachuest Drive in Middletown. Built by Newport Builders, this impressive new construction home is surrounded by 8.5 acres of open space with stunning views of natural landscapes. The property sold for $3.485 million. Matt Hadfield of Hogan Associates | Christie’s International Real Estate […]

Posted inElection

Letter To The Editor: This is not the time to change horses

To the Editor,           Congratulations to the newly elected Newport Councilors whose first task will be to decide who among the four at-large Councilors will be Chairman of the Council. Whomever is selected, will carry the ceremonial title of Mayor, which brings no extra vote or other power. Two years ago, our present mayor, Xay Khamsyvoravong won […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Puddingstone Music Series to host holiday concert on Dec. 18

The Puddingstone music series closes the 2024 season in December with a holiday “Yuletide Melodies” performance at Provence sur Mer. Wednesday, December 18 at 6:00 pm “Yuletide Melodies” at Provence sur Mer (39 Touro Street, Newport, RI) This holiday caroling extravaganza will be co-hosted and sponsored by Provence Sur Mer. Join Puddingstone for a delightful […]

Posted inNews

Senator Whitehouse highlights need for vigilance against Trump’s second term

U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) commented on the outcome of the 2024 presidential election, emphasizing the need for Democrats to remain vigilant in the face of a second Trump administration. In a statement released on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Senator Whitehouse acknowledged the election results and stated that the focus of the next Congress will […]

Posted inElection

Mock ballots in Portsmouth lead to complaints from GOP Senate campaign

by Christopher Shea, Rhode Island CurrentNovember 6, 2024 Rhode Island Republican Rep. Patricia Morgan’s unsuccessful campaign for U.S. Senate on Tuesday claimed Democratic volunteers and candidates in Portsmouth allegedly distributed altered sample ballots, but the complaints don’t appear to have enough merit for state officials to look into. Morgan, a West Warwick Republican, shared an […]

Posted inNews

Democrat Gabe Amo, Rhode Island’s first Black representative in Congress, wins reelection

U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo, the first Black representative in Congress from Rhode Island, won reelection on Tuesday. Amo easily beat his Republican challenger Allen Waters and has promised to work on issues such as ending gun violence to supporting reproductive freedom, as well as fighting to protect Social Security and Medicare. Waters campaigned on his support for gun […]

Posted inElection

Democratic Reps. Amo and Magaziner win reelection in Rhode Island

Democrats held on to both U.S. House seats in Rhode Island in Tuesday’s election. In the 1st Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo, the first Black representative in Congress from Rhode Island, easily beat his Republican challenger Allen Waters. In the 2nd Congressional District, Rep. Seth Magaziner, the former state treasurer in Rhode Island, defeated Republican Steve Corvi. Amo promised to work […]

Posted inElection

Middletown chooses new Town Council and School Committee members

Middletown voters have chosen seven new Town Council members and two School Committee representatives in the Nov. 5, 2024, general election. The Board of Elections reports 100% of precincts have submitted their results. Please note, that all results are unofficial until certified on November 21. Middletown Town Council For the Middletown School Committee, two seats […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport voters approve $98.5 million bond for infrastructure and resilience projects

Newport residents have voted to approve a $98.5 million general obligation bond in the 2024 General Election. The bond will fund various infrastructure, resilience, and community-related projects throughout the city. The referendum, which appeared as Question 6 on the ballot, authorizes the city to issue bonds for various improvements, including coastal protection measures, public safety […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade returns on Nov. 29

The City-by-the-Sea celebrates its vibrant waterfront community on Friday, November 29, at 6:00 p.m. with the annual Newport Illuminated Boat Parade every Holiday Season. The grassroots parade, founded 25 years ago by then-Harbormaster Jake Farrell, has grown into a cherished holiday tradition in Newport. Leaders at Newport Yacht Club have embraced the boat parade to provide a permanent […]

Posted inElection

AP Race Call: Kamala Harris wins Rhode Island

Vice President Kamala Harris won Rhode Island on Tuesday, giving her four electoral votes and continuing the Democrats’ dominance in the state. The last time a Republican presidential candidate won Rhode Island was in 1984, when former President Ronald Reagan defeated former Vice President Walter Mondale. President Joe Biden easily defeated former President Donald Trump […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport voters to decide on $98.5 million bond for city improvements

Newport residents will have the opportunity to vote on a $98.5 million General Obligation bond referendum in the 2024 general election today. The proposed bond, Question #6, aims to fund investments in infrastructure, resiliency, and community-related projects throughout the city. The ballot question, titled “Design, Construction, Repair, Rehabilitation, Replacement and Improvement of Infrastructure and Municipal […]

Posted inNews

Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County Hosts ‘Arts Around the Fire’ on Nov. 20

Federico Santi, chair of the City of Newport’s Public Sculpture Commission, will be the guest speaker at the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Newport County’s upcoming “Arts Around the Fire” event. The free event will take place on Wednesday, November 20, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Sardella’s Restaurant at 30 Memorial Blvd West in Newport. Santi […]

Posted inReal Estate

What Sold: A look at 22 recent sales across Newport County (Oct. 28 – Nov. 1)

As we analyze the current state of the Newport County real estate landscape, it’s clear that the local market remains defined by its inventory challenges. With only 22 properties closing last week, including a remarkable historic sale in Jamestown at a staggering $12.25 million, it’s evident that high demand continues to meet limited supply, resulting […]

Posted inNews

During Medicare Open Enrollment, RI delegation highlights further prescription drug savings on the way for Rhode Island seniors

With the Medicare open enrollment period underway, U.S. Sens. Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo held an event at PACE Organization of Rhode Island in East Providence Friday to highlight the additional prescription drug savings coming to the state’s seniors thanks to the Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act. The Inflation […]

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