Good morning, Newport.

Local lawmakers and community members sent a letter urging Brown University Health to keep the Noreen Drexel Birthing Center open at Newport Hospital—warning that closing it could force mothers and babies to travel farther for care.

A public hearing to discuss the plan is scheduled for next month.

Newport Classical will launch its 2025-2026 Chamber Series on September 12 with 12 Friday evening concerts at Newport Classical Recital Hall, 42 Dearborn St, and tickets go on sale on July 29 at 10 a.m. Every performing artist will also visit local schools as part of the Music Education and Engagement Initiative — strengthening the group’s bond with the community.

The City of Newport is asking both residents and non-residents for feedback on four design plans for Easton’s Beach until July 31 — the review follows last year's demolition of two buildings due to structural concerns and worsening weather.

Today, city workers reinstalled a 650-pound bronze frieze of former Mayor John Waters in the mayor’s outer office at City Hall after its weight cracked the wall—this artwork by William Clark Noble, which features winged angels marking Waters’ brief service and role as an Elks Lodge founder, is now illuminated by the Newport Elks Lodge, which plans a mayoral event this fall to honor local history.

RIPTA released a list on July 24 that shows proposed cuts to 58 bus routes and a planned fare hike to fill a $17.6 million budget gap after a state budget left the agency short; public meetings on the cuts are set to begin July 28 at sites including Newport CCRI Auditorium.

The plan includes ending beach runs like Route 68—serving First Beach—and cutting trips on other routes as ridership remains 300,000 below last year’s level.

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.

40th Annual Charlestown Seafood Festival

8 PM – 11 PM — Ninigret Park — Ticket cost to be determined — Savor a delicious spread of Rhode Island's freshest seafood delights.

Live Music with Megan Chenot

6-9 p.m. — Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. — Free entry — Enjoy a diverse range of musical styles from Newport's own singer-guitarist Megan Chenot.

Back Rhodes

4-10 p.m. — The Nordic — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy an energetic mix of country, rock, and folk from the band Back Rhodes.

Tour of The Towers

10 AM – 1 PM — The Towers — Free entry — Explore the iconic Towers building and enjoy stunning views of Narragansett Bay.

Herreshoff Marine Museum Summer Session 8

8:45 AM - 3:30 PM — Herreshoff Marine Museum — Check website for details — Explore sailing in a fun, educational environment for ages 7-15.

Rolling Stones – Blushing Brides Tribute

7:30-10 p.m. — Courthouse Center for the Arts — Tickets required — Experience the electrifying tribute to the Rolling Stones brought to life by the Blushing Brides.