Posted inCity & Government

McKee Administration announces $4.8M in grants to expand outdoor activities throughout Rhode Island

Governor Dan McKee announced today approximately $4.8 million in awards that will enable eligible small businesses to expand their capacity to do business outdoors. Funded through Governor McKee’s Rhode Island Rebounds initiative, the Take It Outside program will fund 21 intermediary organizations to support outdoor activities for small businesses. Examples of projects include purchasing items […]

Posted inOpinion

Opinion – Sen. DiPalma, Rep. Casimiro: To ensure quality of care, rate reviews are needed across human services

Imagine worrying about an elderly parent who is receiving far less care than their condition requires.  Imagine worrying about a child or family member with an addiction problem because the support services they rely upon to survive are unavailable.  And imagine the anxiety and fear of parents with children who have disabilities and who are […]

Posted inBusiness

Micki’s Mat, CJ’s Pub, Radisson Hotel Providence Airport, and other businesses currently for sale in Rhode Island

The latest listings on BizBuySell and LoopNet show all kinds of businesses currently for sale in Rhode Island. Reasons for selling, when provided, typically do not mention economic hardship, but more often involve the owner retiring or not having time to actively run the business. The names and locations are generally left out, but there are occasional exceptions. Here […]

Posted inCity & Government

Highlights from this week at the Rhode Island General Assembly

The Legislative Press Bureau at the Rhode Island General Assembly shares these highlights from news and events that took place in the General Assembly this week, April 4 – 8. Senate passes legislation on plastic, reusable bags The Senate passed legislation (2022-S 2446) introduced by Senate PresidentDominick J. Ruggerio (D-Dist. 4, North Providence, Providence) that […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rhode Island Road Construction Report: April 9 – 16

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. RIDOT (April 9 – 15) Interstate Highway Restrictions  I-95 North Viaduct, Providence Providence: I-95, at Exit 22 interchange, various closures, including ramps […]

Posted inReal Estate

Providence weekly real estate update

Rising interest rates continue to curb demand in the mortgage market, with applications down from both buyers and homeowners looking to refinance, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Interest rates are nearing 5%, tamping down applications for the third week in a row, for the week ending April 1. “As higher rates reduce the incentive […]

Posted inFood & Drink, Things To Do

The Newport Bachelorette Guide 2022

Fun nightlife, a thriving food scene, local vineyards, picturesque streets and stunning seaside sunsets all make Newport a destination that bachelorette parties flock to in droves. With travel experts predicting a major rebound this spring and summer, Newport’s hospitality industry is gearing up to welcome travelers of all kinds— including brides-to-be and their wedding parties […]

Posted inThings To Do

The RI Home Show returns to the Convention Center this weekend

On Thursday, April 7, the RI Home Show returns to the Convention Center for the first time since 2019. Presented by the Rhode Island Builders Association (RIBA), the RI Home Show runs through Sunday, April 10, and features a broad, exciting lineup of exhibits and interactive displays awaiting attendees. Tickets are $10 per adult and $8 for seniors, with those […]

Posted inSports

Top NBA draft picks from Rhode Island

Each summer, the National Basketball Association’s annual Draft shines a light on the top college and international players looking to enter the pros—and it also affords professional teams the opportunity to improve their roster by bringing in young talent and strengthening the key offensive and defensive skills necessary to put together a winning record. Presently, […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Where all of Wes Anderson’s movies have been filmed

Instantly recognizable for their precisely composed shots, highly stylized (and detailed) set design, whimsical color palette, and recurring ensemble cast, Wes Anderson’s films merge playful, over-the-top absurdism with moments of emotional candor. Anderson is known for his fine attention to detail and sense of style, which has made his aesthetic a subject of analysis or […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rep. Ruggiero bill would create an incident response team for cybersecurity breaches at state agencies

Sometime between Aug. 3 and 5 last year, a hacker stole a sensitive file from the computer of a payroll clerk at the offices of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority. But it wasn’t until Dec. 21 that a letter was sent about the breach to the more than 17,000 state employees whose Social Security numbers, names, […]

Posted inNews

Most common jobs 150 years ago in Rhode Island

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to impact the global economy, the current job market is a hot topic in the news cycle. But while the pandemic itself is, historically, something of an economic aberration, the U.S. economy that we know today has a long and storied history of expansions, recessions, and evolution.At the time of […]

Posted inNews

Adoptable Pet Of The Week: Bluebell

Meet your new best friend, Bluebell– this week’s Adoptable Pet of the Week! Bluebell. Photo via Potter League For Animals The Potter League for Animals shares that Bluebell is a 3-year-old female mixed-breed. Bluebell is considered a large-sized dog, weighing in between 60-99 pounds. Here’s what else Potter League for Animals has to say about […]

Posted inCity & Government

Senator Whitehouse invites Rhode Island organizations to apply for grants from National Coastal Resilience Fund

U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse today invited Rhode Island organizations to submit grant applications to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s (NFWF) National Coastal Resilience Fund.  Whitehouse created the National Coastal Resilience Fund to restore and strengthen the natural infrastructure that protects coastal communities, while safeguarding wildlife habitats, according to a press release from Whitehouse’s office. […]

Posted inNews

Grammy-nominated string band Della Mae will perform at JPT Film & Events Center on July 27

All-female bluegrass group Della Mae is coming to Newport! The GRAMMY-nominated all-woman Boston string band will perform at the JPT Film & Event Center on Wednesday, July 27 at 8 pm. The band includes lead vocalist/guitarist Celia Woodsmith, 2-time Grand National champion fiddle player Kimber Ludiker, guitarist Avril Smith, bassist Vickie Vaughn, and mandolinist Maddie Witler.  […]

Posted inNews

 Interpol, Spoon, and The Goon Sax to perform at Bold Point Park

This fall, Interpol and Spoon will join forces for the “Lights, Camera, Factions” tour, a coast-to-coast run of North American co-headline dates that will also feature openers The Goon Sax, making it a Matador Records triple bill. Waterfront Concerts presents Interpol & Spoon on their Lights, Camera, Factions Tour to Providence, RI on Sunday, August 28th with special guest […]

Posted inJobs

Wyatt Detention Facility to host a job fair on April 13 for Corrections Officers and Medical Staff openings

The Wyatt Detention Facility (WDF) will host a job fair on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the WDF Training Facility located at 935 High Street, Central Falls, RI.  Approximately 45 full-time and part-time positions are available, including corrections officers, IT professionals, registered nurses, phlebotomists, medical aids, and others.  The […]

Posted inNews

DEM will conduct a controlled burn on Dutch Island on Tuesday

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) confirms it will conduct a one-day prescribed burn on part of Dutch Island, a state property located in Narragansett Bay between Jamestown and North Kingstown. The burn, to be held tomorrow, Tuesday, March 29, weather permitting, will be led by DEM’s Divisions of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) and Agriculture and Forest Environment. […]

Posted inCity & Government

Election 2022: FBI investigation, candidate arrested in Ohio, end of financial reporting period nears, inside polls (?)

Typically, the headlines have been about endorsements and policy statements. Then, of course, there are candidates’ accusations about opponents. Lots of claims, lots of noise. But what isn’t typical, is one candidate being arrested in Ohio, and the FBI investigating what has been labeled a “controversial education contract.” FBI reported investigation education contract This week […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Gamm Theatre announces its 2022-23 season

The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre (The Gamm), under the leadership of Artistic Director Tony Estrella and Managing Director Amy Gravell, this week announced its 2022-23 season of bold and compellingly human plays. Featuring five works for its intimate 185-seat theater, Season 38 starts in September with back-to-back Obie Award and Pulitzer Prize winners, followed by three more plays. The lineup also includes a limited run of It’s A […]

Posted inNews

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island certifies eight new LGBTQ Safe Zones

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) this week announced that it has newly certified eight organizations as BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone facilities. This new cohort – including hospice and palliative care, behavioral health services for young adults, breast health services, senior living facilities, and outpatient rehabilitation services – joins 45 other locations statewide providing safe, […]

Posted inNews

Portsmouth Police to provide drug recognition training to educators of Newport County

The Portsmouth Police Department, in collaboration with the Newport County Prevention Coalition (NCPC) will be providing a Drug Impairment Training for Educators on Thursday, April 7, 2022, from 4 pm-6 pm at the Portsmouth Police Department. This training is being provided to Newport County school personnel in an effort to help educators become familiar with […]

Posted inCity & Government

Traffic Report: Road construction, lane closures scheduled around Newport County – March 26 – April 2

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. RIDOT (March 26 – April 1) Weekday Newport: Temporary lane shifts possible for construction on Third St. and JT Connell Hwy., […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Asian Lantern Spectacular returns to Roger Williams Park Zoo April 13 – July 4

The Roger Williams Park Zoo will once again be transformed into a dazzling evening experience with interactive displays, delicious Asian-inspired cuisine, and performances. This enchanting multicultural experience is sure to delight all ages, according to Roger Williams Park Zoo. Photo provided by Roger Williams Park Zoo The lanterns are created by hand with silk fabric […]

Posted inNews

Newport Jazz Festival announces 2022 lineup

The Newport Jazz Festival today announced its 2022 line-up along with a tribute to late Newport Jazz and Newport Folk Festival Founder George Wein featuring very special guests to be announced. The Newport Jazz Festival returns to Fort Adams State Park, July 29 – 31. This year’s festival features Norah Jones, Esperanza Spalding, The Fearless Flyers, Angelique […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Newport Performing Arts Center scraps re-design plans; focusing on fundraising

Faced with escalating costs, the non-profit Newport Performing Arts Center has abandoned plans to streamline its initial design, and instead is looking for ways to trim its budget, without sacrificing the audience’s experience. John Cratin, the organization’s board chair, said the contractor is “very focused” on infrastructure and utilities, hopeful of finding savings to offset […]

Posted inNews

$10,000 grants for community projects up for grabs from The Rhode Island Foundation

The Rhode Island Foundation is offering local libraries, schools, neighborhood groups and nonprofit organizations grants of up to $10,000 to fund proposals that bring people together as a community. March 31 is the deadline to apply. “We are looking for ideas that will enhance the quality of life, build relationships and improve community connections. Our goal is […]

Posted inBusiness

Newport Restaurant Group to host Summer Job Fair on March 30

Newport Restaurant Group (NRG) this week announced that it will host a Summer Job Fair on Wednesday, March 30th from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm at 22 Bowen’s located at 22 Bowen’s Wharf in Newport. Applicants will be offered same-day interviews and job offers. NRG is Rhode Island’s only employee-owned hospitality company and offers full-coverage benefits, food and beverage […]

Posted inColumns

Gerry Goldstein: Brotherly love adds punch to their resistance 

It’s ironic that Russia’s barbaric slaughter of Ukrainians has both horrified and inspired the world. Clearly, the soulless Vladimir Putin knew nothing of the courage and strength that burns in the Ukrainian people, exemplified spiritually – and physically – by brothers Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko, whose story defies believability. Vitali, 50, is the mayor of […]

Posted inNews

Poll: What type of store or restaurant do you wish would open on Aquidneck Island?

Our poll question of the moment asks what type of store or restaurant do you wish would open on Aquidneck Island? Share your comment and check out answers from our readers below on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. What’sUpNewp on Facebook What’sUpNewp on Instagram View this post on Instagram A post shared by What'sUpNewp (@whatsupnewp) What’sUpNewp […]

Posted inCity & Government

Election 2022: Kalus enters gubernatorial race; Pacheco exits congressional race; Diossa names campaign manager

GOP has a gubernatorial candidate – Ashley Kalus Ashley Kalus, a transplant from Illinois, as expected officially kicked off her campaign today to become the Republican nominee for governor.  Kalus, 39, who moved to Newport less than a year ago and registered to vote in Rhode Island in January, promised to “run a campaign of […]

Waterfront home on Harbour Island hits the market for $1.69 million

Enjoy sunsets from the wrap-around deck of this beautiful, custom-designed, one-of-a-kind, waterfront home at 30 Oak Hill Road in Narragansett on desirable Harbour Island. All living areas have water views, including each of the three bedrooms – one on ground level. The primary suite features cathedral ceilings while offering magnificent water views, a walk-in closet, […]

Posted inCity & Government

Ground broken on project to resurface a portion of Aquidneck Avenue

Congressman David Cicilline and Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Peter Alviti Jr. today joined state and local leaders to break ground on a project to resurface approximately one mile of Aquidneck Avenue in Middletown, from East Main Road to Green End Avenue. The $9 million project will rebuild the badly deteriorated road base […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Danielle Genest named Island Moving Company’s next Artistic Director

The Board of Directors for Island Moving Company (IMC), Newport’s contemporary ballet, announced today the appointment of Danielle Genest as the company’s next Artistic Director, starting September 1, 2022.  Genest is IMC’s current Associate Artistic Director and will succeed founding Artistic  Director, Miki Ohlsen following her retirement at the end of the company’s 40th Anniversary […]

Posted inBusiness

People’s Credit Union partners with Arbor Day Foundation to offer free trees to its members

As part of its Centennial Celebration, People’s Credit Union has partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to provide 600 free trees to Credit Union’s members through the Foundation’s Community Canopy Program. The Community Canopy partnership supports one of the key areas of the Credit Union’s philosophy of making the world a better place through environmental […]

Posted inOpinion

Opinion: Universal pre-K will secure brighter future for RI

Early education can be a transformative force in a child’s life. Research has demonstrated the immense value of prekindergarten programs. In these settings, children find structure, support and enrichment, setting them up for success in K-12 schooling and beyond. That yields so many other benefits for families and communities – and, ultimately, for all of us. Access to […]

Posted inNews

Citizen scientists count 464 seals in Narragansett Bay, 106 on Block Island, during Save The Bay’s annual Bay-Wide Seal Count

By Save The Bay On Tuesday, March 15, 17 volunteer citizen scientists took to water and shore to continue a 13-year Save The Bay tradition: counting seals in the nonprofit organization’s annual Bay-Wide Seal Count, an effort to establish a minimum estimate of the number of seals in Narragansett Bay. With support from the Narragansett Bay […]

Posted inCity & Government

Election 2022: de la Cruz enters CD2 race; Magaziner wins nurses endorsement; GOP head warns Dems ‘no Democratic seat is safe’

State Sen. de la Cruz formally announces candidacy Republican state Sen. Jessica de la Cruz kicked off her Congressional campaign, announcing Wednesday at a campaign event in Cranston. She described herself as an alternative to “millionaires” and “career politicians.”  The race for the U.S. House of Representatives has attractive several candidates from both the Republican and Democratic […]

Posted inArts & Culture, History, Things To Do

Lecture on March 23 will spotlight Newport’s first Irish mayor, Patrick J. Boyle

The Museum of Newport Irish History announces the fifth and final talk in its 20th Annual Michael F. Crowley Lecture Series, to be presented “virtually,” via Zoom, and in-person, at the Wayfinder Hotel, on Wednesday, March 23 at 6:00 p.m. Guest speaker, Steve Marino, local historian and tour guide, will present a lecture with Q&A to follow […]

Posted inArts & Culture

Rhode Island State Police Trooper, a Salve alumnus, and his K-9 are the inspiration for a new Netflix movie

Rhode Island State Police Trooper, who is also a Salve Regina University alumnus, Dan O’Neil, and his K-9 companion Ruby are the inspiration for the new Netflix movie, “Rescued by Ruby.” The film, which premieres on Thursday, March 17, depicts the story of Cpl. O’Neil and his partner Ruby who was adopted from RI Society […]

Posted inFood & Drink

Save The Date: Spring Newport Restaurant Week will take place April 1 – 10

Save the date, and make those reservations, Newport Restaurant Week returns for its Spring edition April 1 – 10. For 10 days, restaurants across Newport and Bristol Counties will be offering an assortment of crave-worthy discounts and deals for you to choose from. Think BOGO deals, prix-fixe offerings, gift cards promotions, and more.  Over the coming […]

Posted inNews

The Wallflowers to perform at The JPT in May

The Wallflowers are coming to Newport. The popular rock band will perform at The JPT Film & Event Center on Thursday, May 26th at 8 pm. A big part of the mid-90s revival of roots-rock, The Wallflowers ruled the airwaves with hits including One Headlight, 6th Avenue Heartache, and The Difference. They will be debuting their newest album Exit Wounds on July 9th. The show […]

Posted inStyle & Shop

Ocean State Job Lot will offer First Responder Deal Days March 17 – 23

Ocean State Job Lot (OSJL) his week announced that it offer its First Responder Deal Days March 17th through March 23rd. During this period, current or retired first responders who spend a minimum of $20.00 will receive 40% of their purchase price back on a Crazy Deal Gift Card. First responders are also invited to pick up free hand sanitizer, hand wipes, disinfecting wipes, […]

Posted inThings To Do

Dates Set: 51st Annual Newport International Boat Show will take place September 15 – 18

Newport Exhibition Group announced today that its 51st Annual Newport International Boat Show will take place September 15 through 18, 2022 at the Newport Yachting Center. “After celebrating a successful Golden Anniversary in 2021, this Show is sure to be an event not to miss,” said Lisa Knowles, Show Director of Newport Exhibition Group in […]

Posted inNews

Redwood Library & Athenæum will announce 275th Anniversary plans, welcome Governor McKee on Thursday

The Redwood Library & Athenæum will announce plans for its 275th anniversary on Thursday, March 10 at 10 am. Governor Dan McKee will tour the nation’s oldest library in America and deliver brief remarks.   The Redwood Library & Athenæum is America’s first purpose-built library (1747), and the oldest continuously operating in its original location. […]

Posted inNews

NUWC Division Newport scientist paying it forward as FIRST Robotics Competition team mentor

By NUWC Division Newport Public Affairs Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team lead mentor Rick Blight approvingly looked on as some of the 22 program participants gazed in amazement as engineer Gary Huntress demonstrated the warfare center’s robot dog Spot on Jan. 8. Huntress directed the sunflower yellow robot […]

Posted inNews

RIPTA to detour three bus routes in Newport on Saturday due to Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) today announced that it will detour Routes 60, 63, and 67 in Newport on Saturday, March 12, 2022, to accommodate the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.  The following route changes will be in effect on Saturday, March 12, 2022:  Route 60 (Newport/Providence): Inbound trips to the Newport Transportation Center between 8:30 am and Noon will travel the regular […]

Posted inSports

New York Yacht Club American Magic confirms initial core sailing team roster

Today, New York Yacht Club American Magic, the U.S. sailing team challenging for the 37th America’s Cup, confirmed the initial core sailing team roster: Tom Burnham, Lucas Calabrese, Andrew Campbell, Riley Gibbs, Paul Goodison, Michael Menninger, and Dan Morris. “We are excited to announce this group of talented sailors,” remarked Terry Hutchinson, Skipper, and President of […]

Posted inNews

Breeze Airways announces five new routes from T.F. Green, including nonstop service to LAX

Governor Dan McKee, joined by Rhode Island elected officials, the Rhode Island Airport Corporation and Breeze Airways, the new low-fare airline from JetBlue founder David Neeleman, today announced the addition of five new routes from Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) this summer, including non-stop service to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This is the airport’s first […]

Posted inCity & Government

Town of Middletown: Room fee proposal to pay for school improvements doesn’t progress

After hearing concerns, a proposal from Middletown Councilwoman Terri Flynn to add a $1 to $5 new room fee for hotels, motels, and short-term rentals failed to get the necessary support during a meeting Monday night. The Town of Middletown shared the following update regarding the proposal on its website; ROOM FEE PROPOSAL TO PAY  […]

Posted inNews

Announcements promise a vigorous election, with still three months until the deadline to declare candidacies

Campaign 2022 is well underway, with competitive races in high profile offices, and the expectation of millions of dollars being raised and spent by candidates. And we’re still three months from when candidates must declare their intentions. The Democratic gubernatorial primary election will be competitive for major offices, including governor and the second Congressional district […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rep. Ruggiero bill would push Renewable Energy Standard to 100 percent by 2030

Rep. Deborah Ruggiero is sponsoring legislation that would substantially increase renewable energy production and supply by requiring that 100 percent of Rhode Island’s electricity by offset by renewable production by 2030. The bill has a hearing Thursday before the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee. “The need to address climate change is urgent, and as the Ocean State, […]

Posted inCity & Government

Rep. Carson will present the results of her 2022 Survey at a constituent meeting on March 21

Representative Lauren Carson, who represents Newport’s 75th District in the Rhode Island House of Representatives, will present the results of her 2022 Constituent Survey at an in-person constituent meeting on Monday, March 21 at 6:00 PM at the Newport Public Library. According to a press release from Representative Carson, the survey covered a wide range of topics including infrastructure investments, […]

Posted inOpinion

Comic – Claytoonz: Blame Putin

This entire war is Vladimir Putin’s fault. It’s not the fault of Ukraine. It’s not the fault of NATO. It’s not the fault of Bananarama. And it’s not the fault of President Joe Biden. Yet, conservatives keep trying to latch on to a way to blame President Biden, and they keep coming up empty. The […]

Posted inNews

The beat goes on with Thompson Inspiration Program

The following was submitted by Newport Public Schools/Newport Public Education Foundation. Established by Peter and Melinda Gerard in 2017, the Loti Falk Gaffney Music Empowerment Fund was founded to support the Pell Inspiration Program (PIP), an initiative designed to introduce Pell Elementary School students to inspired musicians through an artist-in-residence program. This year, the Gerards […]

Posted inNews

Sen. DiPalma and Rep. McNamara introduce bill to study RI Board of Education

Sen. Louis P. DiPalma and Rep. Joseph M. McNamara have introduced legislation (2022-S 2442 / 2022-H 7784) that would create a joint study commission to examine the governance structure of Rhode Island’s public education system. The purpose of the commission would be to study, review, and make recommendations on how to most efficiently and effectively administer the […]

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