A 42-foot-long fin whale that was found stranded in South Kingstown on Thursday has been euthanized. Sarah Callan, Animal Rescue Program Manager at the Mystic Aquarium, says the whale was emaciated and unable to free itself at high tide after becoming stranded in Potter Pond. “It’s really difficult to watch an animal go through what […]
rhode island
Posted inHousing, Local, Newport Bureau
Study finds Newport’s zoning is likely an obstacle to affordable housing development
More than 50 people packed an open-house meeting at Newport City Hall Thursday night to learn the results of a new study assessing available housing stock. Patricia Reynolds, Newport’s director of planning and economic development, welcomed those gathered and explained the background on the housing issues and intention of the meeting. She noted that the […]
Posted inHousing, Local, Newport Bureau
Newport’s housing woes put strain on municipal workers
At 8 a.m., just before the first class of the day, students poured into the hallway at Thompson Middle School. Their voices buzzed and bounced off the ceiling and floor as they talked about the girls’ basketball team’s big win then slammed their lockers and headed to class. Eighth-grade social studies teacher Katie Behan stood […]
Posted inArticle, Health, Local
Wanted: Health Director for Rhode Island
Gov. Daniel J. McKee is asking state lawmakers for permission to negotiate a higher salary for the job of state health director, which currently pays less than the average doctor in their first year out of residency training. The health director post has been vacant since January 2022, when Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott resigned. Five months later, Dr. […]
Posted inEnvironment, Local, Newport Bureau
Rhode Island lawmakers propose plan to tackle climate-related coastal threats
On a recent weekday, state Representative Terri Cortvriend climbed the rock outcropping at Surfers End at Sachuest Beach in Middletown. It was raining, and she climbed slowly, her boots seeking traction. At the top, in every direction, she saw areas that are being impacted by the effects of climate change. To the southwest, she mentioned […]
Posted inLocal, Newport Bureau
Bill sponsors think 2024 may be the year for funding suicide prevention barriers on two Newport County bridges
Please note that this story contains subject matter that might be sensitive for some listeners. In November 2019, Rep. Joseph Solomon, Jr. received a call from a friend. A call he didn’t expect. A call no one wants to receive. His friend called to tell him their mutual friend had died by suicide, jumping from […]
Posted inBusiness, Local
Tenant group sues landlord, alleging retaliation against organizing efforts
A group of tenants has filed a lawsuit in district court against Rhode Island landlord Jeffrey Butler and his Warwick-based real estate company, alleging violations of state law protecting renters from certain forms of retaliation. The suit, brought by attorneys from the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island and the Center for Justice on behalf of four […]
Posted inLocal, Newport Bureau
Climate activists protest outside Newport mansion to challenge lawsuits filed by local preservation group
On Tuesday night, the Elms mansion on Bellevue Avenue was aglow with white lights and alive with the sound of protests. “Preserve our future! Not the mansions! Drop the lawsuit! Drop it now!,” they chanted. A few cars honked in solidarity as they passed. Guests arrived in cars, passing through the gate on their way […]
Posted inArticle, Local, Newport Bureau
Southern New England states announce new wind energy agreement
Officials from Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut have signed a multi-state agreement for procurement of offshore wind.
Posted inArticle, Local, Newport Bureau
Families ride out the storm during the 60th Camp-O-Rama at Sachuest Beach
Hurricane Lee largely bypassed Rhode Island this weekend. For a group of campers at Sachuest Beach, the storm wouldn’t have made a difference.
