Good morning, Newport.

A RIPEC report released Tuesday shows the state’s economy lagged national growth over the past decade as key numbers—GDP per capita and productivity—declined due to heavy government spending and low-output industries, prompting calls for policies to attract high-growth sectors.

The Norman Bird Sanctuary launches a free program for local 7th graders featuring 90-minute field trips today across a 300-acre campus — combining field science, physical activity and mental wellness.

Funded by Newport Hospital’s Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund, the initiative also provides transportation support to Title I schools.

Newport Public Schools have received about 12 applications for an interim superintendent and the School Committee is reviewing resumes until Friday evening — a shortlist will emerge for interviews before the May 12 meeting.

State and local leaders launched an expanded RIPTA Flex on Demand pilot on Wednesday that extends the 231 Flex Zone north to serve employers (Raytheon, Naval Undersea Warfare Center) and residents.

The pilot runs April 29 through June 30 with a $2 fare and free first rides using code FLEXME.

Rogers softball won 17-3 in a four-inning run-rule game at Middletown High School on Tuesday; Lila Leys pitched all four innings and hit well to secure the win, boosting the team to an 11-1 record and a 10-game winning streak (coach Shea Milburn).

Portsmouth’s Patriots beat Kent County 6-1 on Tuesday, Apr.

28, showing improved offense and defense; the team will face undefeated Lincoln today and host Johnston Saturday as they aim for a Division II championship (the win builds momentum for upcoming games).

Rogers boys lacrosse beat Tiverton 14 to 0 on Tuesday afternoon at Braga Park — Brady McCombe scored four goals as the team used a balanced offense and stingy defense to secure a wire-to-wire win.

A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Ryan Center — Last-minute tickets available — Catch A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie live in Kingston, RI.

Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Greenwich Odeum — Tickets available — Experience the Southern rock evolution led by Duane Betts, the son of legendary guitarist Dickey Betts.

Boss Tenors Quintet Performance

6-9 p.m. — Pump House Music Works — Ticketed event — Experience the electric homage to jazz legends Sonny Stitt and Gene Ammons with Dan Moretti and Greg Abate.

Wooden Spoon Carving Workshop

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost not specified — Craft your own wooden spoon with expert guidance from Steve Emma using native hardwoods.

Comedy Night featuring Tyler Hittner

8-10 p.m. — Galactic Theatre — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of comedy with Tyler Hittner at a highly-rated venue.

Paul Gilbert & Greg Koch Concert

4-6 PM — The Greenwich Odeum — Ticket prices vary — Experience guitar mastery and celebrate the release of Paul Gilbert's new album WROC.

Dueling Pianos Friday - Early Show

7:30 p.m. — Dueling Pianos Bar at Top Of Pelham — Check with the venue for ticket prices — Experience a night of audience-requested tunes and beautiful harbor views with live dueling pianos.

Morning Coffee Networking

8-9 a.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Providence Airport Warwick — Free entry — Enjoy fresh coffee and cookies while connecting with local professionals.

Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Bowen's Wharf — Enjoy the waterfront — Taste oysters and sip champagne at this culinary celebration.

Spring Watercolor Series with Artist Mary Ellen Dwyer

10 AM – 12 PM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Materials not included — Explore the basics of watercolor painting in this engaging six-class series.