Good morning, Newport.

Dr. Odie William “Bill” Hilton, Jr. died November 10 in Newport at 94; he was a distinguished educator who established the city's first self-contained special education class and led regional special education efforts—his funeral mass is scheduled for November 15 at Trinity Church. This community leader also served on the Newport School Committee and at Salve Regina University, leaving behind a legacy of inclusive education.

Pauline Perkins-Moye, 86 (nicknamed 'Ms. Pauline'), a longtime housing advocate in Newport, received a new roof and skylights at her Burnside Avenue home Tuesday through a partnership led by A1 Roofing & Construction, GAF, and the Newport County Board of Realtors' Charities Committee. Her decades of work for underserved families were honored as the team worked quickly to restore the safety of her home.

Data from the U.S. Census shows that Newport County led state counties in veteran residents—approximately 8.9 percent, or 6,113 veterans—while counties like Providence, Bristol, Washington, and Kent follow with lower percentages.

The report based on the 2023 five-year estimate breaks down numbers by conflicts such as Vietnam and the Gulf War.

A new pop-up food pantry opened Sunday at the Leonard Brown House to give island residents 24/7 access to food and essentials—set up by the Four Hearts Foundation and Newport Living Group with help from Portsmouth Parks and Recreation at 121 Linden Lane.

Organizers reported a successful first week and urge community donations to continue supporting neighbors facing food insecurity.

Rhode Island grocery stores such as Stop & Shop, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 27 because state law requires larger food stores to shut.

Some smaller convenience stores with six or fewer employees may open—customers should call ahead to confirm hours.

Salve Regina University is launching a new online master's program in special education for fall 2026 to help address the shortage of qualified teachers.

The 10-course program can be completed in 24 months and offers tracks in early childhood, elementary or secondary study to meet state certification requirements.

YANA of Newport County has partnered with the Rhode Island Public Defender’s Office to offer a free expungement clinic for residents and YANA members to clear their criminal records.

The clinic will be held Thursday, December 4, from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at YANA’s clubhouse at 770 Aquidneck Avenue—appointments are first-come, first-served.

ByHeart expanded its recall of all infant formula cans and Anywhere Packs after 15 infants were hospitalized from suspected botulism following 2 extra cases reported by the FDA on November 11th.

Parents are urged to stop using the formula and return or throw it away — and to seek care if symptoms appear.

From Nov 3 to 7, 24 homes sold across Newport County as buyers and sellers stayed active despite the seasonal slowdown—some properties moved off the market within days.

Experts advise that sellers aiming to close before 2026 act quickly.

Stephanie Burt-Taylor's Version

6 PM — Charter Books — Free entry — An engaging evening with Harvard professor Stephanie Burt discussing Taylor Swift's artistry and celebrity.

Megan Chenot Concert

5-9 p.m. — Gooseneck Vineyards — Free entry — Enjoy a diverse mix of musical styles from Newport's talented singer-guitarist.

The Dave Matthews Tribute Band Live

9:00 – 10:30 PM — Ocean Mist — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of soulful tunes from a band that captures the essence of Dave Matthews Band.

Holiday Mini Sessions Photography

10:00 – 10:30 AM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Details on pricing not specified — Capture your holiday memories with professional photography in a beautiful setting.

Big Trouble In Little China - Film Screening

8:30-10 p.m. — The JPT Film & Event Center — Tickets available — Enjoy a classic film with a cult following in a cozy cinema setting.

Hey Nineteen - A Steely Dan Tribute Experience

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Tickets required — Experience the top Steely Dan tribute band's complex musical repertoire live.

Winter Afternoon Tea

1-2 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost varies — Gather with friends over tea and indulge in delightful treats.

Thanksgiving Dinner at The Chanler

1-7 p.m. — The Chanler at Cliff Walk — Price not specified — Indulge in an elegant four-course Thanksgiving feast featuring signature dishes and seasonal flavors.

Megan Chenot Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Gooseneck Vineyards — Free entry — Experience a night of diverse musical styles with Newport's own singer-guitarist Megan Chenot.

Lighting of the Lighthouse

5-11 p.m. — Newport Harbor Island Resort — Enjoy a cozy holiday atmosphere with carolers, warm drinks, and festive treats as the historic lighthouse is illuminated.