Good morning, Newport.

Susan Sipprelle and Ellen Pinnock co-founded RENEWport as a nonprofit to unite Newport nonprofits, businesses, and government groups after the community showed strong togetherness during the pandemic—RENEWport has already planted 38,000 daffodils in Miantonomi Park and will host a World Café at Emmanuel Church on Tuesday, Aug. 19 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm while planning more community events for the upcoming school year.

More than 300 Newport County residents joined the What’sUpNewp Press Club to support free local journalism and help fund coverage on government, schools and community issues.

Their membership provides an exclusive daily newsletter — keeping local news accessible to everyone.

At its July 7 meeting, the Newport Historic District Commission continued Hotel Viking’s application to replace 149 windows after asbestos was found in the glazing putty and paint, which made restoration unsafe under Health standards.

The hotel must provide expert testimony by August to update its plan to replace newer fiberglass windows with historically accurate wooden ones — a change that seeks to protect this historic building.

Mothers and hospital staff attended a special Newport City Council meeting on July 15 to voice concerns about the possible closure of the hospital’s birthing center, which opened in 1997 and was named for prominent Newporter Noreen Stonor Drexel.

The council passed a unanimous resolution urging Brown University Health to keep the center open while the hospital will decide later this month—officials will be informed of the decision.

Rhode Island Social Security recipients could see a 2.7% cost-of-living adjustment in 2026 based on June’s inflation report.

However, rising Medicare Part B premiums—expected to jump 11.6% next year—may take the entire COLA for those receiving around $800, leaving little extra to cover other costs.

Residents and the city council urged Brown Health to keep Newport Hospital’s only maternity unit open during a Tuesday meeting as they voiced worries that families might have to travel far for care.

Dr. Fine explained that the unit faces challenges from staffing shortages and complex insurance rules — prompting a call for local action.

Corvettes – Doo Wop Revue

7-9:30 p.m. — Courthouse Center for the Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant sounds of the 1950s with a celebration of Doo Wop music.

FHCamp at Salve Regina University

12:00 AM - 11:59 PM — Salve Regina University — Cost info not provided — A co-ed field hockey camp for ages 10-18 offering skill development and teamwork.

Lighthouse Sunset Tour

6-7:30 p.m. — Edgewood Yacht Club — Cost info not provided — Experience a unique summer adventure with sunset tours to the historical Pomham Rocks Lighthouse.

Plein Air Painting at Blithewold

6-8 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Check event page for pricing — Embrace nature while honing painting skills in stunning summer gardens.

Blessing of the Fleet Weekend

4-10:30 p.m. — The Towers — Free entry — Celebrate nautical traditions with a colorful parade of blessed boats and festive activities for all ages.

53rd Annual Blessing of the Fleet Road Race/Walk

5-6 p.m. — Narragansett Pier Middle School — Registration fee applies — A spirited race honoring local maritime traditions as participants take to the streets.

Chaparelle with Hayes Carll

7 PM - 1 AM — Parlor Bar & Kitchen — $71.07 — Enjoy an evening of music from Chaparelle alongside Hayes Carll at a vibrant venue in Newport.

Maddi Ryan Debut at Bonnett Shores Beach Club

4-8 p.m. — Bonnet Shores Beach Club — Enjoy a delightful Sunday with food, drinks, and tunes from Maddi and her full band.

TJ and The Campers Live at South Kingstown Beach

6-10 p.m. — South Kingstown Town Beach — Bring your lawn chair — Enjoy a delightful evening of music by Christopher Depot and his band at a picturesque beach setting.

Bridging the Gap: Jazz Dance and Music Festival

7-10 p.m. — Salve Regina University — Free entry — Celebrate the rhythm of jazz with dance and music in this long-standing festival tradition.