Good morning, Newport.

Stephen Hopkins was born on March 7, 1707 in Providence and became a key colonial leader who served as governor, council president, judge, and Continental Congress delegate while also helping establish Brown University.

A review of Rhode Island history highlights the legacy of influential women, including poet Phyllis Wheatley (1753-1794) who sought education for all and Puritan leader Anne Hutchinson who challenged male authority, along with Mary Williams whose letter to founder Roger Williams survived King Philip's War.

A February survey by Current shows only 17% of Rhode Islanders find the state affordable and 38% have moved because living costs are high, with 51% of Gen Zers feeling they cannot afford their dream city (results from Talker Research Dec.

17, 2025-Jan. 5, 2026).

Sweet Berry Farm’s new owners plan a major development on the 51-acre Mitchell’s Lane site with a new farmstand, café, and barn for events.

The Middletown Planning Board will review the proposal at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Town Council Chambers—residents may attend and comment.

On Friday, Portsmouth won the Division I boys basketball championship at The AMP by defeating La Salle 49-38.

The Patriots claimed their first D-I title after a season of ups and downs, with Adam Conheeny spearheading the effort (their turnaround surprised many).

The Rams advanced to the Atlantic 10 final with a 55-46 win over Davidson and will face George Mason on Sunday at 4 p.m.* Sophomore center Albina Syla led the team with 22 points and 14 rebounds.

Portsmouth High claimed the Rhode Island Division I boys basketball championship with a 49-38 win over La Salle Academy at Amica Mutual Pavilion on Friday night (March 6).

Adam Conheeny led with 18 points as a stifling defense held La Salle to nine first-half points.

Songwriters in the Round: Natalie Paige, Myah Sallena, Ben Hoke

7 p.m. — Pump House Music Works — Free entry — Experience a night of intimate acoustic performances featuring evocative original music from talented songwriters.

Newport St Patrick's Day Parade

11 a.m. — Newport City Hall — Free entry — Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a festive parade featuring leprechauns and community spirit.

The Natural Film Screening

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The JPT Film & Event Center — Average ticket price $51 — Experience a classic film live at a premier venue in Newport.

Flo Rida Concert

10:00 AM – 9:30 PM — Ryan Center — Last-minute tickets available — Experience hip-hop hits live with Flo Rida in Kingston.

Simon & Garfunkel Tribute Concert

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Courthouse Center for the Arts — Buy tickets online — Celebrate the harmonies and stories of the Simon & Garfunkel Songbook with Aztec Two-Step 2.0.

Hops, Beers & Bites Experience

1-4 p.m. — The Anchor Room At The Coast Guard House — $35.00 per person — Discover the art of hops with local brews and creative bar bites.

Wednesdays: Flight Specials

All day — Newport Vineyards & Restaurant — $15 for wine or beer flights — Enjoy discounted drinks with board games and fire pits on the terrace.

Golden Hour Experience: Newport's Twilight Beauty

Golden Hour Experience — Evening Cruise — Soap and Water Newport — Price varies — Enjoy a sunset cruise with charcuterie and champagne while taking in Newport's stunning views.

Book Talk with Terry Gaspard

2-3 p.m. — Newport Public Library — Free entry — Explore financial discussions that strengthen relationships in this insightful book talk.

Easter Brunch Buffet

10 AM – 3 PM — Newport Vineyards & Restaurant — Adults $85, Kids $27 — Celebrate Easter with a delightful brunch buffet and a fun egg hunt for kids.