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MLK Community Center to open food pantry in Newport’s North End this spring

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center plans to open a satellite food pantry in Newport’s North End later this spring, bringing hunger relief services closer to residents who have faced transportation barriers accessing the organization’s downtown location. The new pantry will be located at 120 Hillside Ave. near Miantonomi Park. Once open, the […]

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Puddingstone Music kicks off spring concert series at Rough Point on April 15

Puddingstone Music returns to Rough Point mansion for an intimate concert on Wednesday, April 15, at 7 p.m., opening its spring series with “This Love Between Us,” a program of song and chamber music inspired by composer Reena Esmail’s meditation on shared humanity. The evening features soprano Katharine Dain, Grammy Award-winning violist Caitlin Lynch and […]

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IYRS launches new runabout restoration course in Newport

IYRS School of Technology & Trades has announced the launch of a new Runabout Restoration Course, a 9-month hands-on program designed for experienced boatbuilders, classic runabout enthusiasts and those looking to break into the boatbuilding trade. The pilot course offers students the opportunity to work through the full restoration process of a classic mahogany Chris-Craft, […]

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Portsmouth wins D-1 basketball title, defeats La Salle 49-38

Adam Conheeny scored 18 points and Portsmouth High School’s stifling defense held La Salle Academy to nine first-half points as the Patriots claimed the Rhode Island Division I boys basketball championship Friday night, 49-38, at the Amica Mutual Pavilion. Portsmouth led 21-9 at halftime and never relinquished control, using relentless defensive pressure to keep the […]

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URI Watershed Watch seeks volunteers to monitor Rhode Island’s ponds, streams, and coasts

The University of Rhode Island’s Watershed Watch program is seeking volunteer water quality monitors to help collect data on lakes, ponds, streams, and coastal waters across southern New England this spring. A URI Cooperative Extension program, Watershed Watch has tracked water quality data for four decades, with volunteers helping researchers understand how snowy winters, stormwater […]

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For survivors, Rhode Island clergy abuse report brings vindication and renewed demands

By LEAH WILLINGHAM and KIMBERLEE KRUESI Associated Press PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The sound of the school nurse’s office door opening. Light reflecting off a stained-glass window. Tearful outbursts and fear of getting on the school bus. For many survivors of clergy abuse, memories like these linger for decades. A report released this week by […]

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Audrain Motorsport to expand Veteran Car Tour into full weekend event in May

Audrain Motorsport is expanding its Veteran Car Tour into a full weekend event this spring, bringing rare brass-era automobiles to the streets of Newport and Bristol in what organizers are calling one of the most significant gatherings of early American automobiles in the country. The event is scheduled for May 16-18, with opening activities beginning […]

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What to know about the investigation into Catholic priests in Rhode Island and sexual abuse charges

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A new investigation into the Catholic Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island, shows that an estimated 75 priests abused more than 300 children since 1950, with the state’s top law enforcement chief warning Wednesday that the scope of the abuse is likely much bigger. The report was released by Rhode Island Attorney […]

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Patriots tell 4-time Pro Bowl receiver Stefon Diggs he’ll be released next week, AP source says

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer The New England Patriots have informed wide receiver Stefon Diggs that he’ll be released when the new league year begins next week, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the team hasn’t announced its intention. Diggs posted […]

Posted inCity & Government

Xay Khamsyvoravong enters Rhode Island lieutenant governor’s race

Former Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong entered the race for Rhode Island lieutenant governor Monday, becoming the latest Democrat to join a crowded primary field ahead of the state’s Sept. 8 primary. Khamsyvoravong, the son of a Laotian refugee and a Providence pediatrician, framed his campaign around economic anxiety and what he called government’s failure to […]

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Rose Island Lighthouse trust names new executive director as organization enters 40th year

The Rose Island Lighthouse and Fort Hamilton Trust has named Amanda Kay Ritchie as its new executive director, the Newport-based nonprofit announced Friday. The board’s selection was unanimous, capping an eight-week regional search led by the organization’s People and Culture Committee. Ritchie brings more than 12 years of senior nonprofit leadership experience in fundraising, communications, […]

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Newport Mental Health names Dr. Joshua C. Brown as new medical director

Newport Mental Health has appointed Joshua C. Brown, M.D., Ph.D., as its new medical director, the organization announced Thursday. Brown, a dual-trained psychiatrist and neurologist, will lead a team of psychiatrists and clinical nurse specialists and play a key role in guiding the future development of behavioral health programs across the organization. “Dr. Brown brings […]

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Blizzard recovery Day 3: Middletown clears all local roads; state heavy equipment deployed in Newport; schools closed through Friday

Recovery from the Blizzard of 2026 enters its third full day Thursday with Newport Public Schools and City Hall closed for the remainder of the week, Ocean Drive still closed to traffic, and side street clearing continuing across the city. The National Weather Service issued a Special Weather Statement early Thursday warning of freezing fog […]

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What to know about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning after college student’s death

A Rhode Island college football player died from carbon monoxide poisoning after he tried to charge his phone in his car during a massive snow storm in a power outage. The storm knocked out power for hundreds of thousands of people across the Northeast. First responders found 21-year-old Salve Regina University student Joseph Boutros unresponsive in his car on […]

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Newport Restoration Foundation names Hilary Fagan as new executive director

The Newport Restoration Foundation has appointed Hilary Fagan as its next executive director, the organization announced Wednesday. Fagan, a Newport native with a background in Rhode Island economic development and financial services, will assume the role March 9. The foundation’s board of directors selected Fagan following a national search, citing her energy, her experience across […]

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Blizzard recovery Day 2: Newport Public Schools closed for the rest of the week; Ocean Drive remains closed; parking ban lifted on Broadway

The second full day of recovery from the Blizzard of 2026 brings more school closings, continued street clearing, and snow possibly mixed with rain that could help melt what remains of the historic storm’s up to 34 inches of snow across Newport County. Newport Public Schools will be closed for the rest of the week, […]

How Midwives support women through the reproductive years

At South County Health’s Center for Women’s Health, Certified Nurse Midwives are among the providers caring for patients with clinical expertise and compassion, empowering women to make informed choices about their health. When people hear the word midwife, they often think of childbirth. While midwives are experts in pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, their role […]

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Police top firefighters 5-2 in Aquidneck Island Guns ‘N Hoses charity hockey game, raising record funds for Portsmouth family

Local police officers skated past their firefighter rivals 5-2 Sunday in the 2026 Aquidneck Island Guns ‘N Hoses charity hockey game, held at St. George’s School — claiming their fifth championship in the annual event. But organizers say the real victory belonged to the Milici family. The game raised funds for Mary Jane “MJ” Milici […]

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Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard lead Celtics past Lakers 111-89 for a season sweep of this rivalry

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jaylen Brown had 32 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, and the Boston Celtics swept the season series in the NBA’s most storied rivalry with a 111-89 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night. Payton Pritchard scored 30 points with six 3-pointers and eight assists for the Celtics, who have […]

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Portsmouth home sells for $6.6 million, marking second highest sale on record in the town

A waterfront estate in Portsmouth has sold for $6,600,000, marking the second highest sale on record in the town and the highest since 2023, according to data from the Multiple Listing Service. The property at 272 Carnegie Harbor Drive, located within the gates of the Aquidneck Club, was announced Friday by Mott & Chace Sotheby’s […]

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Aquidneck Island Land Trust accepting community grant applications through March 13

The Aquidneck Island Land Trust is now accepting applications for its Merritt Neighborhood Fund community grant program, with a deadline of March 13. The endowed fund, established in 1999 to honor the late Peter M. Merritt, the Land Trust’s president emeritus, supports the preservation of small parks, community gardens and other natural spaces on Aquidneck […]

Posted inCity & Government

Public workshop on Naval Station Newport compatibility study set for March 3 in Newport

The Town of Portsmouth is encouraging residents to attend a second public workshop for the Aquidneck Island and Naval Station Newport Compatible Use Study, set for Tuesday, March 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Innovate Newport, 513 Broadway, Newport. The study is examining opportunities to improve transportation, land use and water-related infrastructure as Naval […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport Councilor again cited for campaign filing violation

One local councilman, Newport’s David Carlin III, apparently continues to ignore state campaign finance filing requirements, while another, Xaykham “Xay” Khamsyvoravong is raising significant funds as he’s rumored to be considering a run at a significant statewide office. Meanwhile, legislators in powerful positions are padding campaign accounts as elections now are only months away. These […]

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Authorities are using deep-sea tech to try find the sunken fishing boat off Massachusetts

By RODRIQUE NGOWI and PATRICK WHITTLE Associated Press GLOUCESTER, Mass. (AP) — A coalition of authorities is deploying technology to try to locate the wreck of a fishing boat that sank last month off Massachusetts, killing all seven aboard. But winter weather and sea conditions have thus far slowed their efforts. The 72-foot (22-meter) vessel […]

Posted inInstagram, Real Estate

What Sold: A look at 10 recent sales across Newport County (Feb. 9-13)

Activity remained consistent across multiple price points, with recent sales ranging from the low $300,000s to over $1.3M including single-family homes, condominiums, and multi-family properties.  What continues to stand out is how much the outcome depends on positioning. Properties that enter the market with thoughtful preparation and realistic pricing are attracting attention and moving efficiently. […]

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Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra to present ‘Tradition vs. Innovation’ concert March 8

The Narragansett Bay Symphony Community Orchestra will explore the tension between classical tradition and musical innovation when it takes the stage for its winter concert on Sunday, March 8, at 3 p.m. at East Providence High School. Guest conductor Zeke Fetrow will lead the orchestra through a program spanning more than a century of orchestral […]

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On the Market: A look at every Open House in Newport County this weekend (Feb. 14-15)

Even with February temperatures and a few snowstorms mixed in, the housing market across Aquidneck Island and the surrounding towns has quietly started to wake up. Showings have increased week over week, open houses are drawing steady traffic, and buyers who paused during the holidays are actively re-engaging. The early signs point towards what will […]

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Portsmouth Middle School girls basketball captures state championship with 51-40 win over Gallagher

Simone Orr scored 15 points to lead Portsmouth Middle School to a 51-40 victory over Gallagher Middle School (Smithfield) in the girls basketball state championship on Thursday. The seventh grader paced a balanced Portsmouth attack that featured four players in double figures. Ryen May added 13 points, while Paige Anderson and Camryn Donovan each contributed […]

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Rogers High School principal placed on leave following independent investigation

Rogers High School Principal Jared B. Vance has been placed on leave for the remainder of the school year following an independent investigation into the assault of a special needs student, according to a memo released Tuesday by School Committee Chair James Dring. The investigation, conducted by former Rhode Island State Police Col. Steven G. […]

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St. George’s School completes $26 million renovation of historic dormitory in Middletown

St. George’s School has completed a $26 million renovation of its historic Arden-Diman-Eccles Dormitory, transforming the building into a community hub designed to bring boarding and day students together. The project, designed by Philadelphia-based Voith & Mactavish Architects, adds a central addition beneath the dormitory’s iconic clock tower that serves as community space, a day […]

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401Gives returns March 31 with goal of topping $5 million; more than 300 nonprofits already registered

Registration is open for the 2026 edition of 401Gives, Rhode Island’s largest statewide philanthropic initiative in support of local nonprofits, with organizers aiming to surpass $5 million raised this year. More than 300 nonprofits have already signed up to participate in the event, which will kick off on Tuesday, March 31, and run until 6 […]

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URI students seeking public input on sustainable design solutions for Easton’s Pond area

University of Rhode Island landscape architecture students are inviting Middletown residents to share their ideas for sustainable design solutions along Easton’s Pond at a community workshop next week. The workshop will be held Wednesday, Feb. 18, from 6 to 7:45 p.m. at Middletown Town Hall, 350 East Main Road. Food will be served starting at 6 […]

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Home of the week: 11 Barton Lane, a 4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom Raised Ranch under $700,000 in Middletown

Finding real value in today’s Aquidneck Island market is getting harder and harder. Right now, there are only 14 single family homes on the entire island priced under $700,000. When you factor in size, condition, location, and potential, 11 Barton Lane stands out as, in my opinion, the best value for your dollar. Tucked away […]

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Just My Opinion: What is the United States of America?

What is the United States of America? We are white, black, brown, red, yellow … we are a rainbow. We are Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, evangelicals, atheist, agnostic. We embrace all who worship and those that do not. We are Latino, American Indian, Asian, German, French, English, Italian, Irish, African, Portuguese, Iranian, Israeli, multi-racial. We […]

When your period is disrupting your life, it’s time to talk about it

For many women, heavy or irregular menstrual cycles are often brushed off as “normal”—something to endure quietly while juggling work, family, and daily life. But changes in menstrual bleeding can be a sign that it’s time for a closer look—and effective treatment options are available. Heavy Bleeding Is Common — But Not Normal At the […]

Posted inPolice & Fire

Middletown Fire Department conducts rope and water rescue at Purgatory Chasm

The Middletown Fire Department conducted a rope and water rescue at Purgatory Chasm on Saturday after an individual was found in distress in the water near the chasm, according to a press release from Fire Chief Robert J. McCall. At approximately 10:05 a.m., Middletown Fire and Police Dispatch began receiving 911 calls reporting the individual […]

Posted inCity & Government

Hegseth touts speed and innovation in tour of Quonset Point facilities

by Christopher Shea and Laura Paton, Rhode Island CurrentFebruary 9, 2026 NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — On his first official visit to Rhode Island Monday morning to celebrate and inspire workers at America’s shipyards and defense manufacturing facilities, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth kept about 250 of them standing around waiting for him. Hegseth was […]

Posted inOpinion

What’s in the Dash: Real voices from older Rhode Islanders

Names have been changed to protect privacy. The voices and experiences shared here are real, sometimes uplifting and sometimes raw. In 1996, thirty years ago, Linda Ellis wrote a poem called The Dash. It’s a poem often read at funerals, a reminder It’s not the years on your gravestone that matters most. What matters is […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Newport Art Museum launches the Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney Society

The Newport Art Museum has launched the Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney Society, a new fund designed to support dynamic and ambitious exhibition programming at the Bellevue Avenue institution. The initiative, first previewed at the opening of the Members’ Show Exhibition, will be shared with the broader museum community at the upcoming Julie Keyes Gallery Pop Up […]

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Blanchard’s goal lifts East Bay Riptide past Northern RI Yeti in Sophie’s Squad mental health awareness game

Freshman forward Lorelei Blanchard scored in the first period and the East Bay Riptide held on for a 1-0 victory over the Northern RI Yeti Co-Op in a girls hockey game played Friday night at Portsmouth Abbey. The game was played in support of Sophie’s Squad, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness around mental health […]

Posted inCity & Government

Bill would update references to ‘elderly’ in state law

Rep. Lauren H. Carson has introduced legislation to update state laws to eliminate outdated terms describing older Rhode Islanders. The legislation would initiate a review of state laws for references to “elders” and “elderly person(s),” to enable the drafting of legislation next year to replace those terms with the phrase “older adults.” The bill, which […]

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Trump ends Obama-era restrictions on commercial fishing in protected area off New England

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday reopening a huge swath of protected sea in the Atlantic Ocean to commercial fishing. Trump said the order would reestablish fishing in Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument off the New England coast, a nearly 5,000-square-mile preserve east of Cape Cod that was created […]

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Castle Hill Inn fire under investigation; restaurant could reopen ‘in coming months,’ Newport Restaurant Group says

Updated Feb. 6 at 3:25 p.m. The Newport Restaurant Group said Friday afternoon that damage from the overnight fire at Castle Hill Inn was “significant” but expressed confidence that the iconic Ocean Drive property would be restored. “We are in the process of assessing the damage from last night’s fire. While significant, we are confident […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport City Council to hold public hearing on five-year capital plan at Feb. 11 meeting

The Newport City Council will hold a public hearing on the city’s fiscal year 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Program when it meets Wednesday evening, headlining a packed agenda that includes infrastructure projects, new ordinances and a resolution recognizing Black History Month. The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 43 Broadway. The capital plan […]

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Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund seeing rising demand for heating assistance as cold deepens

More Rhode Island households are turning to the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for help paying their heating bills this winter as persistent high costs for essentials like food and rent compound the strain of cold weather, United Way of Rhode Island said Tuesday. United Way, which administers the fund, is reminding residents facing temporary financial […]

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R.I. Supreme Court rules Newport, Cumberland not required to reimburse DCYF for general education costs of children in residential placements

The Rhode Island Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that municipalities, including Newport, are not obligated to reimburse the Department of Children, Youth, and Families for the cost of general education for children placed by DCYF in residential treatment programs who are not receiving special education services. The decision, written by Associate Justice Erin Lynch Prata, […]

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Panel of R.I. preservation leaders to discuss ‘America 250 and Beyond’ at Rosecliff

Six of Rhode Island’s top preservation and history leaders will gather at Rosecliff on Thursday, Feb. 12, to explore how the nation’s semiquincentennial will shape commemorative activities, inclusive storytelling and preservation efforts across the Ocean State. “America 250 and Beyond: Perspectives from Preservation Leaders,” hosted by The Preservation Society of Newport County, will run from […]

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Home of the Week: Thoughtful design and elevated living at 2269 East Main Road, Portsmouth

Tucked just off East Main Road along a quiet, tree-lined drive, 2269 East Main Road in Portsmouth offers the best of both worlds: space and convenience in one of Rhode Island’s most treasured coastal communities. Built in 2003, this beautifully renovated Cape-style residence combines classic New England character with refined modern design, creating a home […]

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