Posted inNews

State’s Arts Agency awards $828,328 to be distributed among 138 arts entities

Governor McKee and the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts announced today 138 grants totaling $828,328 were awarded throughout Rhode Island to arts and culture organizations, individual artists, and schools. Some of the grants also support collaborations with healthcare, education, economic development and Veteran’s affairs. The grants received support from appropriations by the General […]

Posted inNews, Things To Do

What’s Up Today: Wednesday, July 12

Sign up for our complimentary daily newsletter, and we’ll deliver this story to your inbox daily. It’s free! 7.12.2023 | Words: 1,296 | Reading Time: About 6-minutes The Mayor and Newport City Council invite the public to join them at a reception today from 4:30-5:30 pm at The Edward King House to welcome members of a delegation visiting […]

Posted inBusiness

Cannabis dispensary lawsuit challenges labor provisions of recreational marijuana law

by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island CurrentJuly 11, 2023 Amid growing tensions with its workers over labor standards and unionization, a Portsmouth marijuana dispensary is taking aim at the state’s recreational cannabis law. On Monday at Greenleaf Compassion Center a process server delivered the summons and filed a complaint in federal court, marking the official start […]

Posted inCity & Government

DEM issues Air Quality Alert – Health Advisory Ozone for July 12

PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is predicting that air quality will reach UNHEALTHY levels during the afternoon and well into the evening on Wednesday, July 12. The alert is being issued statewide due to elevated ground level ozone concentrations. Fine particles readings are also expected to reach moderate statewide with some light fire smoke expected in the area. The highest ozone levels are expected in the southern portion of the state, with the very highest readings along the immediate coastline. Ozone is a major component of smog and is formed by the photochemical reaction of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles, industry, and other sources in the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.
The Rhode Island Department of Health warns that unhealthy levels of ozone can cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and aggravation of asthma and other respiratory ailments. These symptoms are worsened by exercise and heavy activity. The children, elderly and people who have underlying lung diseases, such as asthma, are at particular risk of suffering from these effects. As ozone levels increase, the number of people affected, and the severity of the health effects also increase.
To avoid experiencing these effects, limit outdoor exercise and strenuous activity and stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible, during the afternoon and evening hours when ozone levels are highest. Schedule outdoor exercise and children’s outdoor activities during the morning hours. Individuals who experience respiratory symptoms may wish to consult their doctors.
Rhode Island residents can help reduce air pollutant emissions. Limit car travel and the use of small engines, lawn motors and charcoal lighter fuels. Travel by bus or carpool whenever possible, particularly during high ozone periods.
Air quality can change throughout the day. Use AirNow.gov or download the AirNOW application for smart phones to check the current air quality and decide if it is a good time to be active outdoors.
For detailed information, please refer to DEM’s air quality forecast page.
https://dem.ri.gov/environmental-protection-bureau/air-resources/air-quality-forecast
For more information about DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

Posted inBusiness

BankNewport celebrates completion of John Clarke Senior Living courtyard renovation project

 BankNewport CEO Jack Murphy joined John Clarke Senior Living CEO Joan Woods, staff, and residents for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of their courtyard renovation project at 600 Valley Road in Middletown, RI.  The Bank provided grants to John Clarke Senior Living to support the courtyard renovation and other facility improvements to positively […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Tuesday, July 11

Sign up for our free daily newsletter and we’ll deliver this story straight to your inbox daily! 7.11.2023 | Words: 1,118 | Reading Time: About 6-minutes 🎵 Family Night Concerts returns to Easton’s Beach this evening with a performance by Nickel Jukebox at 6 pm. The show is free and open to the public; parking […]

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Tyler Hicks, Feinstein Jr. Scholar & Gaudet Middle School student, donates Golden Ticket winnings to Portsmouth AgInnovation Farm

Middletown, RI – Gaudet Middle School student, Tyler Hicks, was recently recognized as a Feinstein Jr. Scholar by The Feinstein Foundation. As part of his Golden Ticket package, Tyler had the opportunity to gift a $500 grant to an organization of his choice. He generously chose the Portsmouth AgInnovation Farm. The Portsmouth AgInnovation Farm is […]

Posted inCity & Government

DEM: Blue-Green Algae Blooms in Exeter, Portsmouth, and Smithfield/Johnston

As a result of blue-green algae (or cyanobacteria) blooms, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising people to avoid contact with three bodies of water: Boone Lake in Exeter Upper Melville (aka Thurston Gray Pond) in Portsmouth, and Little Beach (located on a northwest […]

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What’s Up Today: Monday, July 10

7.10.2023 | Words: 1,118 | Reading Time: About 6-minutes 🆕 Sen. Reed shared on Sunday that the National Park Service recommends turning over Beavertail Lighthouse in Jamestown, Sandy Point Lighthouse on Prudence Island, and Watch Hill Lighthouse in Westerly to new state government and nonprofit owners who agree to preserve them. Read More 🎵 A warm […]

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Senator Reed hails preliminary agreement to transfer ownership of 3 historic lighthouses from U.S. to RI

For generations they have stood tall along Rhode Island’s shorelines helping to safely guide maritime traffic.  Now, with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s recommendation, the federal government is poised to enter into official agreements to transfer a trio of historic Rhode Island lighthouses to new owners who will preserve them for future generations, according […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Sunday, July 9

Sign up for our free daily newsletter, and we’ll deliver this story to your inbox daily! 7.9.2023 | Words: 1,185 | Reading Time: About 6-minutes 🎵 NIMFest kicks off its 16th season at King Park today with the Down City Band from 3 pm to 6 pm. These concerts are family-friendly and free. ⚾ In […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Saturday, July 8

This is a What’sUpNewp newsletter. Have this story delivered to your inbox every morning by signing up for our complimentary daily newsletter! 7.8.2023 | By Ryan Belmore | Words: 1,237 | Reading Time: About 6-minutes 👑 On this day in 1663, 27 years after Roger Williams arrived in the colony, King Charles II gave Rhode Island […]

Posted inNews

DEM confirms man’s death at Misquamicut State Beach

The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is confirming that at around 12:30 PM today, lifeguards at Misquamicut State Beach pulled an unresponsive adult male from the water. According to DEM, lifeguards tried to resuscitate the man by administering CPR and using an automated external defibrillator until Westerly EMS and DEM’s Division of Law Enforcement responded […]

Posted inNews

Road Report: Schedule of lane closures and road construction projects (July 8 – 15)

The following road and lane closure notices have been scheduled by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA). Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority July 9 – 15, 2023 Newport Claiborne Pell BridgeWestbound Right Lane Closure- 7/10 and 7/14- 6 am to 2 pm Jamestown Verrazzano BridgeThere […]

Posted inBusiness

Christmas Tree Shops stores closing in Middletown and Warwick, hosting Going Out of Business sales

Going Out of Business sales have commenced across all remaining Christmas Tree Shops store locations nationwide, including their two locations in Rhode Island – Middletown and Warwick. The liquidation event is being managed by Hilco Merchant Resources. At the Going Out of Business sales, shoppers can take advantage of discounts up to 50 percent off […]

Posted inNews, Weather

Hottest months in Newport County since 1895

In 2022, the continental United States experienced its third hottest July since 1895, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, while 20 states saw one of their 10 hottest days in the same month. The year prior, July marked the hottest month on record worldwide. Climate change is driving rising temperatures and […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Friday, July 7

7.7.2023 | By Ryan Belmore | Words: 1,462 | Reading Time: About 7-minutes 🐎 The Irish Polo Team, who will take on Team USA during the Newport International Polo Series on Saturday, will be welcomed to Aquidneck Island via a Pony Parade on America’s Cup Boulevard this evening. 👏 The Rhody Regatta, an 18-mile race around Conanicut […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Newport in Bloom’s Annual Garden and Container Competition returns for its 41st year

Newport in Bloom today announced the highly anticipated 41st Annual Garden and Container Competition, celebrating the passion and dedication of individuals who cultivate stunning flower gardens and containers throughout our beloved city. This prestigious competition invites participation from all individuals, embracing the spirit of community engagement. Divided into three residential zones, Newport in Bloom offers […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Thursday, July 6

Sign up for our free What’sUpNewp newsletter and we’ll deliver this story straight to your inbox every morning! 7.6.2023 | By Ryan Belmore | Words: 1,462 | Reading Time: About 7-minutes 🗳️ The nearly three dozen declared candidates for the now vacant first U.S. House of Representative seat in Rhode Island face a series of deadlines that […]

Posted inNews

Legislation to spur housing development across Rhode Island signed into law

Five bills from Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s housing package were ceremonially signed into law today at the site of a former public school in Warwick that is being converted into housing. The bills – coupled with the historic investments made r in the FY23 and FY24 budgets – will help address the long-lagging housing production rates in Rhode Island, […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Theatre By The Sea’s 90th Anniversary continues with ‘The Bodyguard’

In celebration of 90 years of Theatre By The Sea, owner and producer Bill Hanney is proud to present the romantic thriller The Bodyguard, which will be presented from July 12 – August 5, 2023. “I am so excited to be producing this thrilling production,” said Bill Hanney. “I still remember the buzz surrounding the film when it was released […]

Posted inNews

Adoptable Dog of the Week: Falcor

Meet this week’s adoptable dog of the week – Falcor! Available for adoption at the Potter League for Animals, Falcor is a 2-year-old male Husky. “Falcor is a handsome young Husky awaiting his forever home! He is a high-energy, playful dog, and would do well with an active family,” the Potter League for Animals shares […]

Posted inSports

International Tennis Hall of Fame and Infosys launch immersive Metaverse Museum Experience

Newport, R.I., USA – July 05, 2023: Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, and the International Tennis Hall of Fame today announced the debut of a dynamic Metaverse museum, bringing the ITHF experience to tennis fans around the world. In a Hall of Fame first, this deeply interactive, immersive […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Wednesday, July 5

Receive this story in your inbox every morning by signing up for our free daily newsletter! 🎆 After being postponed a day due to rain, The City of Newport will host its annual fireworks display over Newport Harbor this evening at 9:15 pm. 🎇 Jamestown will now host their fireworks at 9:05 pm on Thursday […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Tuesday, July 4

This is a What’sUpNewp newsletter, sign up for it, and we’ll deliver it straight to your inbox every day! It’s free! Happy 4th of July/Independence Day! 🎆 With rain and thunderstorms possible, City of Newport officials postponed its fireworks display to its scheduled rain date of July 5th at 9:15 p.m. 🇺🇸 The Rhode Island Society […]

Posted inNews

Obituary: George Hauerstein

George Hugh Hauerstein, 82, of Newport, Rhode Island, passed away on June 30, 2023, after fighting a courageous battle with ALS for the past year. George is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Prudence Joan (Meli) Hauerstein, daughters, Joan Inciardi (Craig Inciardi) and Suzanne Hauerstein (Aaron Castellano), as well as his three adoring […]

Posted inNews, Things To Do

What’s Up Today: Monday, July 3

🎵 The Newport Jazz Festival experimented with rock music for the first time on this day in 1969. 🏖️ In what can only be described as a triumphant victory lap Saturday, July 1, advocates who have been fighting for public access to Rhode Island’s shoreline, and against private property owners trying to limit those rights, […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Friday, June 30

🗳️ Thursday was the first day for candidates in the race for Congressional District 1 to officially declare their candidacy for the open seat vacated by David Cicilline. Twenty-one candidates (18 Democrats and 3 Republicans) officially declared on Thursday, including… Marvin Abney (D) Gabriel F. Amo Jr. (D) Mickeda Sebastiana Barnes (D) Stephanie Beaute (D) […]

Posted inNews

RIDOH recommends closing beaches across the state, including Third Beach, Peabody’s Beach, and Sandy Point Beach

Update (5:28 pm): The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends reopening Scarborough Beach South in Narragansett and Easton’s Beach in Newport. This is an update on a beaches announcement sent earlier this afternoon. Subsequent samples collected at these beaches have indicated that bacteria counts have returned to safe levels. Original Story (5:01 pm): The […]

Posted inBusiness

Ashley Householder named Executive Director of The Sailing Museum and National Sailing Hall of Fame

Newport, R.I. – The Board of Directors of The Sailing Museum and National Sailing Hall of Fame announced today that Ashley Householder has been appointed executive director. Householder has been part of the National Sailing Hall of Fame and The Sailing Museum family for over two years already, working previously as both consulting curator and director of […]

Posted inNews

Providence Restaurant Weeks returns July 9 – 22

Providence, RI – It’s one of the most popular dining events of the year – Providence Restaurant Weeks is coming back to the greater Providence area July 9-22, 2023, now featuring even more dining options. Brought to you by the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, this year’s Providence Restaurant Weeks will include prix fixe […]

Posted inNews

Human remains have likely been recovered from the Titan submersible wreckage, US Coast Guard says

submersible that imploded during an underwater voyage to view the Titanic, the U.S. Coast Guard said Wednesday. The news came hours after the announcement that debris from the Titan, collected from the seafloor more than 12,000 feet (3,658 meters) below the surface of the North Atlantic, had arrived in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Twisted chunks of […]

Posted inCity & Government, News

In affirmative action and student loan cases, advocates fear losses for racial equality

By ANNIE MA and AARON MORRISON Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — As a Black student who was raised by a single mother, Makia Green believes she benefited from a program that gave preference to students of color from economically disadvantaged backgrounds when she was admitted over a decade ago to the University of Rochester. As […]

Posted inSports

What’s Up Today: Thursday, June 29

Thursday, June 29 | By Ryan Belmore 🎉 Newport-based 11th Hour Racing Team has won The Ocean Race 2022-23, the world’s longest and toughest team sporting event – the first time a US team has won in the 50-year history of the Race. 🗳️ The Declaration Period for Congressional District 1 begins today. Candidates looking to replace David […]

Posted inSports

Six In A Row: Gulls take down Danbury 8 – 2

The Newport Gulls defeated the Danbury Westerners 8-2  on Wednesday night at Cardines Field.    Wednesday night’s game was the second time the Gulls and the Westerners played against one another. The Gulls used their home playing field as redemption from their previous loss against the Danbury Westerners.  With no runs by either team in the […]

Posted inCity & Government

AARP awards grants to Bike Newport and three other Rhode Island organizations as part of its Nationwide Program to make communities more livable

Today, AARP Rhode Island announced four organizations throughout the state will receive 2023 Community Challenge grants – part of the largest group of grantees to date with $3.6 million awarded among 310 organizations nationwide. Grantees will implement quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places; transportation; housing; digital connections; diversity, equity and […]

Posted inCity & Government

Air Quality Alert – Health Advisory issued for June 29 due to wildfire smoke

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is notifying the public that smoke from Canadian wildfires will be impacting the area, with an Air Quality Alert being issued for Thursday June 29, 2023. An alert is being issued for UNHEALTHY fine particles on the Air Quality Index. Smoke impacts are expected to increase throughout the day, heaviest late, as smoke plumes to our west and northwest are transported into Rhode Island. Expect periods of wood burning odors, haze, and unhealthy fine particles readings on local air quality monitors throughout the state. At this time, this smoke is anticipated to linger into Friday.
The fine particles in smoke are so small that they can get past the body’s natural defenses and get deep into the lungs. Breathing particle pollution can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Some people are more likely to experience health effects from poor air quality, including people with asthma or other lung disease, people with heart disease, older adults, and children and babies.
The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends people who are sensitive to particle pollution should take the following actions to protect their health:
• Stay indoors with windows closed during the times significant smoke is affecting your area.
• Additionally, for people outdoors, N95 masks can reduce exposure to pollutants in smoke plumes. Choose less strenuous outdoor activities and shorten the amount of time you are active outdoors.
• Air quality can change throughout the day. Use AirNow.gov or download the AirNOW application for smart phones to check the current air quality and decide if it is a good time to be active outdoors.
• Particle pollution can make asthma and lung disease symptoms worse. People with asthma should carefully follow their asthma management plan on days when pollution levels are high.
• For people with heart disease, breathing in particle pollution can increase their risk of heart attack. Be on the lookout for symptoms like chest pain or tightness, fast heartbeat, feeling out of breath, or being more tired than usual, and contact a doctor.
As mentioned, if the smoke is reaching the ground, you will smell wood burning with reduced visibility. Elevated fine particles from smoke are expected to remain into possibly Friday.
For detailed information, please refer to DEM’s air quality forecast page.
https://dem.ri.gov/environmental-protection-bureau/air-resources/air-quality-forecast
Additionally, EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map has detailed information on current air quality readings in your area, including DEM and RIDOH air quality monitors, along with the network of regional low-cost sensors.
https://fire.airnow.gov/

Posted inMusic & Entertainment, Things To Do

‘Music In The Park’ coming to Paradise Valley Park in July

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (JUNE 28, 2023) – The Middletown Outreach Department is spearheading a new “Music In The Park” series in July in Paradise Valley Park.  Beginning July 10, the Monday evening series from 6-8 has food trucks, free concerts and lawn games in the Prospect Avenue park home to the Boyd’s Grist Windmill. The opening concert […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Wednesday, June 28

Wednesday, June 28 | By Ryan Belmore 🎉 On this day in 1969, the Claiborne Pell Bridge opened to the public. 👉 Newport City Council is back to work tonight. At 5:45 pm, they’ll meet in Executive Session regarding the City Manager position. At 6:30 pm, they’ll host a Regular Council Meeting. Here’s a look […]

Posted inNews

2023 Newport Flower Show awards announced

The following awards were handed out at the 27th Newport Flower Show at Marble House last weekend.  All proceeds from The Newport Flower Show benefit The Preservation Society of Newport County. Photo Credit: Preservation Society of Newport County BOTANICAL ARTS DIVISION Garden Club of America Certificate of Excellence in Botanical Arts (exhibit of great distinction): […]

Posted inNews

‘Quiet Fireworks’ viewing at Beavertail will allow people with sensitivities to enjoy Newport’s display from across the Bay

DEM provided the following update at 8:33 am on July 5 – “Please be advised that DEM’s Quiet Fireworks viewing event at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown that was originally scheduled for tonight has been rescheduled to the rain date of Wednesday, July 5 from 9-10 PM, as the City of Newport’s fireworks display has […]

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

Top of Pelham to host local art show – sponsored by Hangar 420

This Thursday night, art enthusiasts and supporters of local talent will gather at Top of Pelham for a local art show sponsored by Hangar 420, a Rhode Island-based cannabis company known for its expertise in cultivation and distribution. The event, dubbed the Pelham Art Series, promises to be an engaging evening showcasing the works of […]

Featured Job Opportunity: Direct Support Professional at The James L. Maher Center

The James L. Maher Center is now hiring for the position of Direct Support Professional in Bristol, Barrington, Warren, Newport, and Middletown. The James L. Maher Center is a non-profit agency that fosters independence and opportunity, promotes dignity, and advances integration in housing, employment and social engagement for people with developmental and other disabilities through […]

Featured Job Opportunity: Direct Support Professional – Community-Based Support at The James L. Maher Center

The James L. Maher Center is now hiring for the position of Direct Support Professional – Community-Based Support one on one with clients. The James L. Maher Center is a non-profit agency that fosters independence and opportunity, promotes dignity, and advances integration in housing, employment and social engagement for people with developmental and other disabilities […]

Posted inCity & Government

DEM is encouraging Rhode Islanders to report sightings of wild turkeys

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is again asking the public to report sightings of wild turkeys as part of its annual Wild Turkey Brood Survey. Biologists from DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) are asking Rhode Islanders to submit observations of females (hens) with or without poults (chicks) and males (gobblers, toms, jakes) to […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Tuesday, June 27

Tuesday, June 27. ⛵ Did you know that the first solo circumnavigation of the globe was completed in Newport, Rhode Island? Captain Joshua Slocum, a native of Novia Scotia, completed the feat on this day in 1898. 👉 Dark Shadows, an American Gothic soap opera, premiered on ABC on this day in 1966. Throughout the show’s run from 1966 […]

Posted inNews

‘Chosen Family’ wraps up filming in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Film & TV Office announced today that Verdi Productions has finished filming Chosen Family, which was written, directed, and stars Heather Graham (Boogie Nights, Austin Powers). Julia Stiles (10 Things I Hate About You, The Bourne Identity) co-stars along with Thomas Lennon (Reno 911!), Michael Gross (Family Ties), Andrea Savage (Tulsa King), John Brotherton (Fuller House), Julie Halston (Addams Family Values), Odessa Rae (Hard Candy) and Ella Grace Helton (Hubie Halloween). This picture-postcard romantic […]

Posted inSports

Inaugural Rhody Regatta raising funds for Rhode Island Community Food Bank

By Rhody Regatta The inaugural Rhody Regatta, which benefits the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and takes place Saturday, July 1 in combination with the International Yacht and Athletic Club (IYAC) Newport Cup, is making an all-call to sailors to create their fund raising pages for their teams. “It’s two great events in one,” said the IYAC’s […]

Posted inCity & Government

Newport Police warning against scam phone calls

The Newport Police Department advises residents to beware of scam phone calls involving individuals impersonating Newport Police Department personnel or claiming to be affiliated with The Newport Police Department. The Police Department has received several complaints regarding phone calls from individuals impersonating Police Officers and requesting money. If you receive a call and have any […]

Posted inCity & Government

Legislation to improve RI’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure signed into law

STATE HOUSE– Legislation sponsored by Sen. Frank Lombardo III and Rep. Michelle E. McGaw to better prepare Rhode Island for the rapid growth of electric vehicles on the state’s roadways has been signed into law. The legislation (2023-H 5159aa, 2023-S 0988aa), which passed the General Assembly June 16 and was signed into law by Gov. Dan […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Book Review: ‘White House by the Sea’ tells storied Kennedy tale through family’s compound

By ANDREW DeMILLO Associated Press “White House By the Sea: A Century of the Kennedys at Hyannis Port” by Kate Storey (Scribner) The history of the Kennedy family is so well-chronicled — from the modern Camelot legend surrounding John F. Kennedy’s presidency to the series of tragedies that marked the family throughout the 20tb century […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Monday, June 26

Sign up for our complimentary daily newsletter, and we’ll deliver this story straight to your inbox every morning! Monday, June 26. 👉 The Supreme Court is getting ready to decide some of its biggest cases of the term. The high court has ten opinions left to release over the next week before the justices begin their […]

Posted inNews

What’s Up Today: Sunday, June 25

Get this story in your inbox every morning, sign up for our free daily newsletter! Sunday, June 25. ⚓ Last Wednesday, the folks at Charter Books collaborated with IRYS for a showing of Master and Commander: The Far Side of The World at the Jane Pickens Theater. Will Sofrin, author of his new book, All Hands On Deck, […]

Posted inThings To Do

Celebrate the 247th Anniversary of the founding of our country in historic Newport

By Rhode Island Society Sons of the Revolution For over 100 years, THE RHODE ISLAND  SOCIETY SONS OF THE REVOLUTION has hosted Newport’s  Independence Day Celebration, and there is not a more patriotic place to celebrate America’s birthday than in the Newport, RI Historic District. The  Declaration of Independence was first read to the citizens […]

Posted inCity & Government

Road Report: Schedule of lane closures and road construction projects (June 24 – 30)

The following road and lane closure notices have been scheduled by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA). All schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Rhode Island Turnpike & Bridge Authority June 24 – 30, 2023 No schedule published. Rhode Island Department of Transportation June 24 […]

Posted inCity & Government

First RI Mosquito Report of 2023: No West Nile Virus or EEE Findings; State reminds public to ‘Fight the Bite’

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced that the first set of mosquito samples of the 2023 season tested by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) State Health Laboratories has confirmed no positive isolations (findings) of West Nile Virus (WNV) or Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). These results are from the 101 pools (samples) collected from 26 traps set statewide on June 5 and 12. To date, neither Connecticut nor Massachusetts has reported any EEE or WNV findings.
WNV is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States and is much more prevalent than EEE. Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall. There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About one in five people who are infected develops a fever and other symptoms. About one out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. DEM and RIDOH advise Rhode Islanders to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes until the first hard frost. (A hard frost is when the air and the ground freeze below 32°F for three hours or below 28°F for two hours.)
During the 2022 testing season, one EEE detection was made: from a mosquito sample from a trap set in South Kingstown on Aug. 9. Three mosquito samples tested positive for WNV detections during the season: two from Westerly traps set on Aug. 9 and Aug. 23 and one from a trap set in North Kingstown on Sept. 7. During the 2022 season, there was one human case of WNV involving a Providence County resident in their 70s that was reported on Sept. 26 and two human cases of Jamestown Canyon Virus, one involving a Washington County resident in their 50s reported on Aug. 1.
National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, taking place June 18-24 this year, is an annual campaign developed by the American Mosquito Control Association that sheds light on the critical importance of managing mosquitoes in local communities and reducing the prevalence of locally transmitted mosquito-borne diseases. Local communities voluntarily participate with mosquito control through DEM’s larvicide distribution program, which provides municipalities with a limited free supply of mosquito larvicide briquettes that release environmentally-benign bacteria over a 90-day period in underground stormwater catchment basins that are prime breeding areas of mosquitoes, requiring only one application per season.
Residents can participate in mosquito control by removing backyard larval habitat. The Asian Tiger Mosquito has become prevalent in Rhode Island urban environments, and it is expected to be common again this season. It is notable as a daytime biter encountered in shaded backyards. It has a striking black and white pattern evident to the naked eye. It develops from eggs laid in artificial containers, so residents are urged to remove standing water from containers such as buckets, pots, wheelbarrows, boats, and pools. Clogged rain gutters and puddles formed on tarps also can support the larvae of this species. The Asian Tiger Mosquito is known to transmit several diseases, including WNV.
Personal protection is the first line of defense against mosquitoes that may carry WNV, EEE, or other diseases – and the most effective way to avoid infection. The following precautions are advised.
Protect yourself
o Put screens on windows and doors. Fix screens that are loose or have holes.
o At sunrise and sundown (when mosquitoes that carry EEE are most active), consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning. If you must be outside, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and use bug spray.
o Use EPA-approved bug spray with one of the following active ingredients: DEET (20-30% strength), picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus or paramenthane. Always read the label and follow all directions and precautions.
o Do not use bug spray with DEET on infants under two months of age. Children should be careful not to rub their eyes after bug spray has been applied on their skin. Wash childrens’ hands with soap and water to remove any bug spray when they return indoors.
o Put mosquito netting over playpens and baby carriages.
Remove mosquito breeding grounds
o Remove items around your house and yard that collect water. Just one cup of water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes; an unused tire containing water can produce thousands of mosquitoes.
o Clean your gutters and downspouts so that they can drain properly.
o Remove any water from unused swimming pools, wading pools, boats, planters, trash and recycling bins, tires, and anything else that collects water, and cover them.
o Remove or treat any shallow water that can accumulate on top of a pool cover. Larvicide treatments, such as Mosquito Dunks can be applied to kill immature mosquitoes. This environmentally friendly product is available at many hardware and garden stores and online.
o Clean and change water in birdbaths at least once a week.
Best practices for horse owners
Horses are particularly susceptible to WNV and EEE. Horse owners are advised to vaccinate their animals early in the season and practice the following:
o Remove or cover areas where standing water can collect.
o Avoid putting animals outside at dawn, dusk, or during the night when mosquitoes are most active.
o Insect-proof facilities where possible and use approved repellents frequently.
o Monitor animals for symptoms of fever and/or neurological signs (such as stumbling, moodiness, loss of appetite) and report all suspicious cases to a veterinarian immediately. If you are unsure if your horse is properly vaccinated, you should consult with your veterinarian.
Visit health.ri.gov/mosquito for additional mosquito prevention tips, videos, and local data. Mosquitoes are trapped weekly by DEM and tested at the RIDOH State Health Laboratories. DEM issues advisories on test results from June through September, with additional reports as necessary. Typically, positive test results trigger additional trapping to assess risk.
For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates.

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Newport Polo to host Newport versus Boston on June 24

Newport International Polo Series will feature an annual rivalry against Colonial foes, when Boston marches on Newport in the 2023 United States Polo Association Constitution Cup on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 5 pm. After a thrilling 6-chukker match last Saturday to witness Spain overtaking USA, the Polo Series continues this week with a revolutionary tournament that began […]

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