Good morning, Newport.

The Potter League for Animals will host The Bark & Boogie fundraising gala on Saturday, April 11, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Grand Ballroom of the Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa; tickets are $125 and proceeds will support pet care and adoption programs.

DEM announced $5.7 million in outdoor recreation grants—$500K for Newport’s splash pad and $156K for Portsmouth’s fitness facility—while the local NARFE chapter meets Apr.

7 at Middletown Public Library, and newportFILM unveiled a pilot study on middle schoolers’ social media use in an ongoing community effort.

A guide with 17 family fun activities is available today, featuring hands-on museum tours plus zoo visits and mini golf in Rhode Island.

The list offers outdoor adventures and learning spots that help families create lifelong memories.

Pope Leo XIV met with leaders from the International Association of Exorcists who expressed concern over rising Satanism and urged that every diocese have one trained exorcist; Catholic officials stressed that cases are rare and only pursued after medical causes are ruled out (according to Vatican reports).

Pennsylvania's new state law mandates that schools teach cursive handwriting starting this April to boost memory and hand-eye coordination, while schools here in Rhode Island continue without the requirement.

Rhode Island lawmakers are discussing wage bills that may raise the minimum wage, increase overtime pay thresholds, and adjust Sunday pay rules for health care and food service workers — proposals that will be debated in the state legislature amid concerns over rising housing costs.

State Rep. Lauren H. Carson has demanded that Brown University Health keep the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center open at Newport Hospital, warning that state support is tied to keeping the only local labor unit in service—essential for maternal care.

Lawmakers face imminent decisions as public pressure mounts.

Local families can enjoy a range of activities this season as museums offer interactive learning and trails host hikes, sports events attract enthusiasts, and stargazing sessions invite curious sky-watchers.

The selections provide fun opportunities for all ages across the community.

A new tennis racket, Squared, was unveiled Wednesday at the Tennis Hall of Fame where local players got to test it.

The lightweight design aims to reduce strain on the arm + it will be available in stores within the next few weeks.

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.

Big Lux and The Hype

8-11:59 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Check website for pricing — Enjoy a lively mix of reggae, funk, and rock by Sea of Giants in a vibrant coastal setting.

Daffodil Society of Rhode Island Preview Party

5-7:30 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Admission details not specified — Preview stunning floral arrangements in a delightful garden setting.

Newport Rhode Races

7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Easton's Beach — Marathon: $110, Half Marathon: $85, 5K — Experience the thrill of the race along the scenic Newport coast.

Pollinator House Workshop

10 AM – 12 PM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Free entry — Create a pollinator house and learn about the importance of pollination for trees on Arbor Day.