Good morning, Newport.

Joe DeRobbio, an army veteran and former officer from Middletown, donned his red suit at Long Wharf Mall’s Santa Magic to entertain 200 children with holiday cheer and hopes for joyful winter memories; he plans six more Santa appearances (including a booking for next season) to spread festive spirit.

Newport’s city website shows 24 board and commission vacancies, with Middletown holding 21 and Portsmouth six.

Young professional 25-year-old Matthew Skirzenski recently joined the Middletown Conservation Commission to bring fresh conservation ideas to the community + boost civic participation.

Local doctor Charles F.

Pattavina criticized Brown Health’s birthing center advisory panel for lacking transparency after letters on Nov. 20, 24, and 26 questioned its use of (non-disclosure agreements) and public updates; he urged the hospital to release the NDAs and provide regular briefings.

Middletown High School students with Island Interact Teen Club are collecting winter gear to reach 600 donated coats—helping residents stay warm this winter.

Drop-off sites include Wickford Appliance, Bank Newport, and other local spots until Dec. 9.

Christian McBurney launched the website Small State, Big History 10 years ago to share Rhode Island stories as the state nears its 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

More than 30 historians contribute free articles on familiar events and hidden local moments.

Newport Marriott unveiled its largest gingerbread display featuring a 16-foot lighthouse and a 7-foot keeper's house built with over 100 hours of work by local high school students.

The holiday display is in the lobby through Jan. 4 and invites guests to donate nonperishable food to a community center.

Newport Public Schools did not meet required language instruction hours for about 160 of its 337 multilingual students + shortfalls are highest at Pell Elementary.

District officials blame a union settlement for the gap and will notify families as the district works to comply by the 2029-30 school year.

Today, state law prohibits pets from entering grocery stores—except for service dogs in customer areas and restaurants with outdoor dining under strict rules—in Newport, so locals must leave non-service animals at home when shopping.

Parking revenue at Easton’s Beach hit a record $1.3 million this season after the city raised non-resident fees and provided free parking for residents.

Heritage Restaurant Group earned nearly $200K in concessions, though beach operations still run $300K over cost, officials said.

South County Health opened its new Women’s Health office at 38 Powell Ave near Newport Hospital early November.

The office is open on Mondays and Tuesdays with plans to expand hours, and it offers free childbirth classes at the Newport YMCA to help local women access care.

Alicia @ Christmas by the Sea

11 AM – 3 PM — The Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina — Free entry — Explore handcrafted items including energy clearing sprays and Reiki-infused jewelry at this festive market.

Nighttime Christmas Experience at Blithewold

4-7 p.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Admission included — Immerse yourself in holiday magic with illuminated gardens and guided tours of the decorated manor.

Wednesday Night Trivia

6-8 p.m. — Newport Vineyards & Restaurant — Reservations recommended — Bring friends for trivia fun with prizes and themed rounds.

Kate Voegele and Tyler Hilton Live

8-9:30 p.m. — The Greenwich Odeum — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of music from two talented artists with roots in the hit series 'One Tree Hill'.

Billy Gilman - Home For The Holidays

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Greenwich Odeum — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the holiday season with a special performance by Billy Gilman.

Bonsai Bar at Crafted Hope

1-3 p.m. — Crafted Hope Brewing Company — Workshop fee applies — Discover the art of bonsai as you create tiny trees with friends over drinks.

Wednesday Trivia Night

6-8 p.m. — Newport Vineyards & Restaurant — Reservations recommended — Bring your friends and a thinking cap for 5 exciting rounds of trivia with prizes.

Winter Afternoon Tea

11:00 AM – 12:15 PM — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Cost TBA — Delight in freshly baked scones and a variety of sweet and savory treats with friends.

Coastal Queen's Meet & Greet with Santa Cruise

11 AM - 12 PM — Coastal Queen Cruises — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience the magic of Christmas with a festive cruise and a special visit from Santa Claus.

Frank Sinatra Christmas Celebration

1-2:30 p.m. — Courthouse Center for the Arts — Tickets required — Enjoy a festive mix of holiday favorites and classic Sinatra hits performed by renowned musicians.