Good morning, Newport.

St. Columba’s Chapel in Middletown will host the next concert in its series with the Narragansett Bay Chorus performing a cappella barbershop music on Sunday, September 28 at 3 pm—tickets cost $20 for regulars and $10 for students.

A reception will follow the show, and tickets can be purchased at the parish office or from chorus members.

The new documentary ‘Water Brother: The Sid Abbruzzi Story’ is now available for digital purchase and rental—this film shows the life of a legendary local surfer and skater with rare footage and interviews.

It premiered at Fort Adams State Park in August and follows Abbruzzi as he works to preserve his surf and skate legacy amid the planned demolition of his long-time Water Brothers Surf & Skate shop.

Today, IYRS School of Technology and Trades earned two national honors from the Accrediting Commission—receiving the 2025 ACCSC Commitment to Student Success Award and naming Athena Vieira the 2025 ACCSC Outstanding Graduate.

The school reported an 83% graduation rate and 87% graduate employment rate and will present the awards at the ACCSC Professional Development Conference scheduled for Sept. 15—17 in Arlington, Virginia.

Rhode Island’s Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner approved double-digit rate hikes for nearly 175000 commercial insurance plans starting next year; premiums rise 17.6% for small group plans, 19.3% for large group plans, and 21% for individual plans.

Governor McKee directed a review of rising costs—higher health care services, the expiration of premium tax credits, and a new insurance fee—and plans to propose fixes to help families.

An audit report found RI Energy overcharged state agencies $2 million due to billing issues—linked to a system transition after its acquisition—and the company said it has corrected the errors while an independent audit is set for November 14.

Newport residents can sign up for a free composting pilot program—offering weekly curbside food scrap collection starting October 5—for up to 1,500 eligible households; the City Council meeting is relocated to Pell Elementary School at 6:30 p.m. tonight—the change comes after Wednesday’s meeting was cancelled due to a City Hall elevator malfunction.

Rhode Island readers are invited to vote for their favorite fall foliage spot as the season sets in with cooling temperatures and apple orchards opening—polls ask which scenic areas best capture the autumn glow, with peak colors expected the week of Sept.

30. The poll comes as early forecasts predict minimal color by Sept. 9, increasing to a partial change from Sept. 23.

Dueling Pianos at the Top of Pelham

8 p.m.-1 a.m. — One Pelham East Bar & Grill — Tickets recommended — Enjoy a lively night of music with audience-requested performances at Newport's unique Dueling Pianos show.

2025 National Sailing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

5 PM – 10 PM — The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame — Admission details to be announced — Celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025 in a special induction ceremony.

Baby Bookworms Storytime

9:30-10:15 a.m. — Newport Public Library — No registration required — Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, and playtime for babies aged 0-24 months.

Dudemanbro

9 PM – 11:59 PM — Ocean Mist — No cover charge — Chill vibes and groovy roots rock reggae-ish music with good company.

North Kingstown Firefighters Blazing Trail 5K

10 a.m. — Ryan Park — Supports local firefighters — Experience a scenic trail run while benefiting the North Kingstown Firefighters Association.

2025 Concours d’Elegance

8:30 AM – 4:00 PM — The Breakers — General admission required — Experience over 150 classic cars competing for the prestigious Best of Show trophy.

Jim Robitaille: Tom Casale Quartet Concert

6-10 p.m. — Borealis Coffee Company — Admission details TBD — Experience a night of captivating guitar music from award-winning composer Jim Robitaille.

2025 Amica Newport Marathon

7:30 AM – 1:30 PM — Easton's Beach — Registration fees apply — Experience the breathtaking oceanfront scenery at this award-winning marathon.

NEHRA's Annual Conference

9 AM – 10 AM — Newport Harbor Island Resort — Registration required — A vibrant gathering for HR professionals to deepen their connections and enhance their skills.

Fall for Lucy's Hearth

6-9 p.m. — Newport Art Museum — Supporting families experiencing homelessness — An evening benefiting a vital local shelter and transitional housing program.