Good morning, Newport.

Newport residents can explore local events this weekend starting today through Sunday, April 27 to connect with community activities.

Organizers are encouraged to list their plans on the community calendar — inviting everyone to participate.

The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County and the LeRoy White Family Foundation have opened nominations for the annual LeRoy White Soul & Conscience Award for musicians who enrich the community, with applications due May 16 and the $5,000 winner announced at the Raise Up the Arts event on June 25.

Conexion Latina Newport held the statewide event Mujeres Latinas Poderosas on April 10 at Rough Point where computer experts taught Latina women skills to start online businesses and build leadership in Newport.

The program helps participants overcome isolation and language barriers—fostering stronger community ties.

Rhode Island’s Q1 2025 data show mixed job trends as non-farm employment increased by 800 jobs while overall employment fell by 2,300 and labor force participation dropped to 64.1 percent.

The unemployment rate rose to 4.7 percent and Q4 GDP grew 1.9 percent — pointing to a softening economy amid gains in leisure, manufacturing, and trade.

Over 600 Newport residents attended a town hall on April 21 at Portsmouth Middle School where the Rhode Island Congressional delegation—Sen. Jack Reed, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, and Rep. Gabe Amo—gave opening remarks and answered questions from the crowd.

Outside the school, local activists protested while a Navy veteran on stage drew cheers and boos for his comments about Congress and the USA's support for Israel.

At a Newport budget workshop on April 21, city councilors debated meeting nearly $400,000 in funding requests from over 30 community organizations after Covid relief funds ended — weighing a proposed nearly 4% tax increase and cuts to capital projects.

City officials and representatives raised concerns over allocation processes as public hearings continue this month.

On April 23, the Newport City Council unanimously voted to extend free resident parking for permit holders from two to three hours at metered spots, but the change will take effect only after a second reading and an affirmative vote—this meeting also approved increases in minimum fines for parking violations in the city.

Realtor.com released a report showing that Rhode Island earned an F grade for housing—with a score of 12.2 and a 51st overall rank—and noted the state received only 0.1% of 2024 construction permits, which signals ongoing challenges in making homes more affordable.

Newport's Irish Musicians Exhibit

12 noon - 4 p.m. — The Museum of Newport Irish History — Free entry — Explore the rich musical heritage of Newport's Irish community in this engaging mobile exhibit.

Return of the Dinosaurs

8-9 a.m. — Roger Williams Park Zoo — Special sensory-friendly event — Experience the wonders of dinosaurs before the regular public opening.

Residential Stormwater Mitigation Info Session

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Quinta Gamelin Community Center — Free entry — Learn about stormwater management strategies for residential properties in Eastern Rhode Island.

Ballroom Dancing with Fred Zalini

6:30-8 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost info not provided — Learn to swing and sway during this fun dance class with Fred Zilian.

The Mallett Brothers Band Live

9:30-11:00 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Tickets available — Experience the vibrant sounds of rock and Americana from the Mallett Brothers Band in a lively beachside venue.

Atlantic Super Regionals Rugby Championship

May 3-4 — Fort Adams State Park — Admission details TBA — Experience top-tier rugby in a historic coastal setting with breathtaking views.

Diva and the Playboys Concert

4-10 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Entry cost not specified — Enjoy live performances of all your favorite songs in a lively beachside setting.

Lotus Dividing Workshop

9-11 a.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Fee applicable — Participate in a hands-on demonstration to grow and care for beautiful lotus plants while taking home a tuber.

Sweet Treats for Mom: Charcuterie Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Check event page for cost — Create an edible masterpiece to take home with expert pairing and design tips.

Crafting for Critters Spring Bazaar

All day — Airport Professional Park — Free entry — Explore an array of handcrafted items just in time for Mother's Day while supporting local artisans for a good cause.