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1540 WADK.com Updates Archives for 2014-07

Funeral Home Remains Examined

Officials believe some human remains found in a Providence funeral home had been there for more than a decade.  Six bodies and two cremated remains were found at Pennine Funeral Home on Federal Hill by a friend of home director Alfred Pennine.  Three of the bodies were in caskets, two others were in shipping containers.  He went to the home after Pennine took his own life at a New Hampshire campground earlier this month. 

Judge Tosses Candidate Stalking Conviction

A judge is throwing out the Internet stalking conviction of a top teachers union official over his actions during a 2010 state House campaign.  The judge ruled that e-mails sent by John Leidecker to former Representative Douglas Gablinske were protected political speech under the First Amendment.  Leidecker was convicted of the charge in 2011 and fined 100-dollars.  The e-mails he sent attacked Gablinske's position on education, highway tolls and other issues.

Four Beaches Reopen

Three beaches in Middletown and one in Newport are open to swimming once again.  State health officials say the bacteria levels at Atlantic Beach, Peabody’s Beach, Third Beach and Easton’s Beach have returned to within normal limits. The town beach in Warren remains closed due to elevated bacteria counts.

Newport Man Getting Incucted Into National Sailing Hall Of Fame

The Annapolis, Maryland based National Sailing Hall Of Fame has announced that Harry Anderson Jr. is among eight inductees into the class of 2014. Anderson, a long time Newport resident, has been involved with sailing for more than 60 years and he served as an America’s Cup race official for more than 20 years. His induction ceremony is scheduled for September.

Three Dollar Bar To Remain Closed

A bar on Providence's Federal Hill that was the scene of a recent homicide will remain closed for the time being.  The Board of Licenses says the Three-Dollar Bar will remain closed as they review reports of a large fight at the establishment on Sunday.  In that incident, police say they found 15 people fighting behind the bar, and a crowd of dozens more refused to disperse.  That followed a July 23rd incident where a Glocester man was beaten to death.

State To Help Preserve Land In North Kingstown

The Department of Environmental Management will help in the purchase of 45 acres of land in North Kingstown as part of an effort to preserve almost 500 acres along the Narrow River. The land, adjacent to Upper Pond, is being purchased for $300,000 in a cooperative effort by the state, the Narrow River Land Trust the Town of North Kingstown. 43 of the acres will remain open space and two acres will be used for parking and trail entrances.

Middletown Police Department Awarded National Accreditation

The Middletown Police Department has received national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. The accreditation follows three years of work completed by police personnel to ensure the department’s standard operating procedures, policies, and actions are consistent with national standards.  Middletown is now one of eight Nationally Accredited Law Enforcement Agencies within the state.

New Prudence Island Ferry Operator Starts In September

Ferry passenger service between Bristol and Prudence Island will have a new operator.  A & R Marine will be the new operator and is expected to begin service on September 15th.  Prudence Ferry, the current operator announced on their facebook page that they will be stopping service on September 14th. Prudence Ferry will be looking to start a new service from elsewhere in the Spring.

Tonight's Bridgefest Events

It's day three of Bridgefest and there are two great events going on tonight you may be interested in attending.

 

6:00pm: Newport Festivals Foundation, Inc. presents a Family Concert with Bari Koral Family Rock Band and Oran Etkin’s Timbalooloo. Also featuring a special dance performance with choreography by Jackie Henderson from Off the Curb and Able Mind & Body.
 
6:30pm: Canfield House Jazz Supper Club. An elegant evening of dining and dancing with the Lois Vaughan Quintet. Revisit the heyday of the Jazz Era as you enjoy the Monte Carlo feel of Richard Canfield’s historic Newport casino.

 

Get more information and complete details on the Bridgefest website by clicking the link below.

http://newportbridgefest.com/2014-calendar-of-events/

Beaches Closed By High Bacteria Levels

Five Rhode Island beaches are closed to swimmers because of elevated bacteria levels in the water.  Three of the beaches are in Middletown, Atlantic Beach, Peabody's and Third Beach.  The others recommended for closure are Easton's Beach in Newport and the Warren town beach.  The state Department of Health will continue to monitor the water and will reopen the beaches for swimming when bacteria reaches acceptable levels.

Governor Holding Ceremony To Sign Breast Density Bill

Governor Chafee is ceremonially signing legislation today aimed at raising awareness of a potential risk factor for breast cancer. The General Assembly passed the legislation that requires that each mammogram report include notification of any finding of dense breast tissue and a suggestion that additional screening may be beneficial to some. 

Attorneyt Generals Office Grants $250,000 For Repairs To Portsmouth Wind Turbine

The Portsmouth wind turbine could be spinning again within the next 6 months.  In June, the town council decided to fix the turbine, rather than tear it down. The repairs are estimated to cost $885,000. The town will be getting a $250,000 grant from a federal Clean Air Act lawsuit paid out to the state and this will help offset that cost.

Wilson's of Wickford Meets Fundraising Goal

A Wickford retail staple is staying open for business thanks to the community's generosity.  Wilson's, a clothing store that's been open in Wickford since 1944, was facing a shutdown amidst a tough economy.  But owner Jim Wilson was able to raise over 150-thousand dollars on the crowd funding site crowdtilt.com.  Now, Wilson says, he'll be able to pay his bills as well as buy new merchandise for the store.

Tiverton Police Investigating Break-Ins

Police in Tiverton and Little Compton are investigating two breaking and entering complaints. Yesterday police responded to the complaints and tracked two suspects to a wooded area of Main Road and Windmill Hill Drive. A link to the description of the suspects can be found on on their facebook page. Anyone who observes any disturbances in their yard or views suspicious people or activity is asked to contact Tiverton Police headquarters.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiverton-Police-Department/438443289611211?rf=191106960908242

Evan Smith To Serve on DMAI Board Of Directors

Evan Smith, President and CEO of Discover Newport, has been chosen to serve on the Destination Marketing Association International board of directors.  The association includes nearly 600 destination marketing organizations, from 16 countries and provides nearly 4,000 members educational resources, networking opportunities and marketing intelligence worldwide.

Newport Jazz Fest In 60th Year

The legendary Newport Jazz Festival kicks off its 60th year this Friday.  The festival is still produced by 88-year-old George Wein, the passionate jazz enthusiast who brought the very first jazz festival to Newport in 1954.  He said ticket sales for this year's festival are already ahead of last year and the year before.  He expects around 20-thousand people to attend. 

Anti-illegal Immigration Rally In Providence

An anti-illegal immigration group rallied at the statehouse in Providence Saturday.  The non-profit Rhode Islanders for Immigration Law Enforcement organized the rally after news broke that 119 undocumented children who have recently crossed the southern border, are now being housed in Rhode Island.  Protestors said government assistance shouldn't be going to illegal immigrants when so many U.S. veterans are homeless and struggling.

Teenager Arrested In Connection With Little Compton Stabbing

A teenager has been arrested after his father was found stabbed at a Little Compton home.  The father was found by police with a stab wound to the neck and he was taken to the hospital.  The teen has not been identified due to his age but was taken to the state juvenile facility and is expected to be in court today. The teen is facing charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon with intent to commit murder.

2x4 Beating Victim Dies

The Glocester man beaten with a two-by-four last week during an argument died on Saturday.  Thirty-four-year-old Jonathan Stack was beaten during a fight with two other men over the sale of a truck in Federal Hill on Wednesday.  Forty-eight-year-old Daniel Lastarza was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon last week, but authorities said his charges will now be upped to murder.

Bridgefest Begins Today

Bridgefest begins today. The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Newport County created Bridgefest 6 years ago. The 4 day festival includes music and music related activities throughout the area. You can all the information on Bridgefest including the events schedule on their website. www.newportbridgefest.com

Newport Folk Festival Begins Today

The 55th Newport Folk Festival kicks off today.  The three day festival at Fort Adams begins with Ryan Adams, Jimmy Cliff and Band of Horses along with 14 other acts filling 4 stages throughout the day. There will also be a special program to honor Pete Seegar who helped start the festival and was involved with it until he died in January. 

Officials Recommend Closing Scarborough State Beach South

Public health officials recommend closing Scarborough State Beach South in Scarborough State Park to swimmers.  Officials say high bacteria counts are to blame.  They say they will continue to monitor the situation and will reopen the beach when it is safe.  Meanwhile, the Scarborough North beach remains open. www.health.ri.gov/beaches/

RI Sailer Falls To His Death In Virginia

A Rhode Island sailor falls six stories to his death from a barracks at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia.  Base officials say 22-year-old Morgan Louis Hayman from Pawtucket was involved in a fight with another sailor just prior to his fall Tuesday night.  The U.S. Navy says no charges have been filed, but N-C-I-S is investigating.  The other sailor was treated for his injuries at the hospital and released. 

Warwick Man Has Second Lottery Win

A Warwick man is celebrating his second scratch ticket win in eight months. Kevin Gilchrist won $75,000 back in December and this week he won another $40,000. He hasn’t decided how he is going to spend the money, but he is planning on giving some to his children.  Gilchrist purchased both winning tickets from Lakewood Liquors in Warwick.

Chafee Says Number Of Migrant Children Drops

Governor Lincoln Chafee says the number of migrant children crossing the nation's border is dropping.  Chafee says federal officials have informed him of the drop in numbers, indicating that the need for temporary housing for those kids is dropping.  Chafee says he has not received any requests from the federal government to house any children.

Man Pleads Guilty To Making Meth In Newport

A Pawtucket man that was charged with manufacturing and distributing methamphetamine in a Newport motel room has pleaded guilty. 51 year old Sean Costigan is facing up to 100 years in federal prison and a potential fine of up to $5 million dollars. He will be sentenced in November.

Newport City Councilman Arrested For Assault

Newport City Councilor Michael Farley was arrested and pleaded no contest to simple assault charges.  Farley was accused of assaulting a contractor working on the house next to his back in June. Farley was arraigned yesterday and has been ordered to pay restitution and ordered not to have any contact with the victim.

Man Killed In Coventry Crash

A Connecticut man was killed when he lost control of his vehicle on Plainfield Pike in Coventry.  35 year old Scott Deware of Sterling was pronounced dead at the scene. The one car crash remains under investigation.

Providence Journal Newspaper Sold

The "Providence Journal" is being sold.  Dallas based AH Belo says they're selling the "Journal's" print and online operations to New Media Investment Group for 46-million dollars.  The purchase will include the "Journal's" production facility on Kinsley Avenue.  However, the new owners will lease the paper's headquarters on Fountain Street and parking lot for one year.  AH Belo has operated the paper for the last 17 years.

Single Family Home Costs Rise

The cost of a single-family home in Rhode Island is on the rise.  The Rhode Island Association of Realtors says the average cost of a single family home in the state was 220-thousand dollars in the second quarter.  That's a five-percent increase from the same period one year ago.  However, the number of homes that were sold was down four percent from 2013 levels.

Tractor Trailer Burns At Home Depot

A tractor trailer loaded with retail products is now rubble after the rig caught fire in a Home Deport parking lot in Coventry.  The truck's diesel tanks let go during the fire, and crews needed to bring in a large amount of foam to absorb the 200 gallons that leaked.  The fire occurred near the garden section of the store, so the building itself was not threatened.  No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Three Arrested In Tiverton Car Breaks-Ins

Tiverton Police have arrested three suspects involved with a series of vehicle break-ins.  Kyle Simmons, 20, Devin O’Loughlin, 19, and a juvenile whose name has been with held were apprehended after a foot chase by police near Haskins Avenue.  Police were able to locate property from 6 separate vehicles during the arrest. Simmons and O’Loughlin were arraigned in District Court on 13 counts and bail was set at $2500 with surety.  Tiverton police are thanking residents in town for contacting them, their efforts led to the apprehension of the three suspects. Anyone with property damaged or stolen that has not reported it yet is being asked to contact the Tiverton Police Department at 625-6722.

Red Cross Seeks Local Shelter Volunteers

The American Red Cross Rhode Island Chapter is looking for shelter volunteers in Middletown, Jamestown and surrounding communities to help in the event local shelters are needed in times of emergency or disaster. There will be a hurricane and blizzard preparation drill on Saturday morning at 7:30 at the Gaudet Middle School Gym. The drill will be held in conjunction with Emergency Management partners on Aquidneck Island.  The training is free and open to the public. You can get more details on their website: http://www.redcross.org/news/article/ri/American-Red-Cross-Seeks-Local-Shelter-Volunteers.

Police Remind Of Hot Car Dangers

The temperatures are beginning to rise, and Rhode Island State Police are warning of the dangers of leaving children unattended in hot cars.  Police say that anyone who spots a child alone inside a hot car should call 911 immediately.  If the child is in distress, people are urged to get them out of the vehicle, then use cool water to lower their body temperature.  Police say that whether it's in a parking lot or a driveway, people should not assume the parents know their children are in the vehicle.

Alex & Ani To Sue BJ's

Alex & Ani has been given the go-ahead to sue BJ’s Wholesale Club and others over $1 million dollars worth of charm bracelets.  Alex & Ani was told the bracelets were going into VIP bags at a horse competition in Florida and at the Austin Film Festival.  They found the bracelets for sale at BJ’s locations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Suspect In Providence Killing Surrenders

The suspect wanted in the killing of a young Providence father over the weekend is now in police custody.  Police say Justin Andrade turned himself in yesterday afternoon and is charged with murder.  Andrade is accused of killing Ty-shon Perry early Saturday morning near Allston Street.  Police believe Perry may have been shot by mistake as part of a gang related dispute he had nothing to do with.

URI Students Win FAA Competition

Five URI Engineering Students have won the national FAA competition.  The team of engineering students has created a device called The Wingman. The Wingman helps with the delicate process of moving airplanes around the tarmac without having the wingtips collide. The device attaches to the wingtip and emits light and sound when the plane approaches a nearby object. The team will be traveling to Washington, D.C. to present their invention to FAA Officials. Get more details on the story URI website:  www.uri.edu/news/releases/?id=7124

Voluntary Fruit Recall Affects Some RI Stores

Wawona Packing Company of Cutler, California is voluntarily recalling certain lots of whole peaches (white and yellow), nectarines (white and yellow), plums and pluots packed between June 1, 2014 through July 12,2014 due to the potential of the products being contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Wawona Packing has notified retailers of the specific lots being recalled. No other products are impacted by this recall. No illnesses have been linked to this recall to date.

These products were sold in Rhode Island at Sam's Club, BJ's, Trader Joe's, Stop and Shop, Whole Foods, Save-A-Lot and very possibly other food establishments. The Rhode Island Department of Health is continuing to contact additional food establishments that may have the recalled products. These products are often, but not always, sold under the name of "Sweet 2 Eat".

Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Get more information on the recall and the list of specific recall items on the Helath Departments website.  http://www.ri.gov/press/view/22500

No Injuries In Charlestown Boating Incident

Nine people were rescued from their boat after the steering system failed.  The Point Judith Coast Guard was one of the units that responded to the call in Charlestown.  There were no injuries.

Traffic Down At TF Green

Passenger traffic is down at TF Green Airport.  The Rhode Island Airport Corporation says the number of passengers using the Warwick airport was down more than seven-percent in June.  The total number of passengers flying into and out of TF Green is also down nearly seven-percent for the year.  Around half of the passengers that used the airport flew on Southwest Airlines.

Foster Man Facing Child Pornography Charges

A Foster man is facing charges accusing him of possessing and transferring child pornography.  State Police say 31-year-old Derek Holland was arrested after he was caught in an undercover investigation into the trading of child porn images an videos on the Internet.  Police say they executed a search warrant at Holland's home on Thomas Parker Road in Foster and found evidence on a computer there. 

Police Looking For Suspect In Deadly Shooting

A young father is dead after a shooting incident in Providence, and police are seeking his killer.  Twenty-year-old Ty-shon Perry was shot in the early morning hours Saturday on Allston Street.  He was pronounced dead a short time after arrival at the hospital.  Twenty-year-old Justice Andrade is the prime suspect in the killing, and anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact police immediately.

Middletown Boy Wins Baseball Competition

A Middletown boy won a national baseball competition.  9 year old, Alex Clemmey won the pitch, hit and run competition for his age group at the MLB All-Star Game.   The competition brings children from all across the country. Clemmey beat our two other national finalists and was also the winner of a state-wide competition at McCoy stadium.

Resume Will Be Needed To Collect Unemployment

A new regulation that the Department of Labor & Training will be launching will require anyone who is filing for unemployment claims with the state to post their resume on the EmployRI website. The new regulation starts September 1st and is part of a goal to get Rhode Islanders back to work within  6 weeks of unemployment.

Sachuest Coastal Resiliency Project awarded a $2.3 million grant

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Department of the Interior announced Monday that the Sachuest Coastal Resiliency Project was awarded a $2.3 million grant as part of the Hurricane Sandy Coastal Resiliency Competitive Grant program. The funds from this grant award, along with matching funds or in-kind services from the Town of Middletown and its local partners, will be used to improve biodiversity restoration and green infrastructure enhancements in the Second and Third Beach areas in Middletown.  

 

http://www.middletownri.com/blog/651/town-hall-annonuces-grant-award-june-16-2014

RI Not Asked To House Migrant Children

The federal government is not asking Rhode Island to house any of the migrant children flooding across the nation's southern border.  Governor Lincoln Chafee's office says that no federal entity has reached out to the state for assistance in housing migrant children.  Neighboring Connecticut has rejected a request from the feds to house some of the children, while Massachusetts is looking for suitable locations to take in some of them.

Health Department Recommends Beach Closures

The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) recommends the closure of Atlantic Beach Club Beach in Middletown; Bristol Town Beach in Bristol; Conimicut Point Beach in Warwick; Fogland Beach in Tiverton; Grinell's Beach in Tiverton; and Warren Town Beach in Warren to swimming due to high bacteria counts.

Officials will continue to monitor the water quality at these beaches and will recommend re-opening them when they are safe for swimming. Water quality analysis is conducted by the HEALTH laboratory or a state certified laboratory.

PLEASE NOTE: BEACH STATUS MAY CHANGE ON A DAILY BASIS. For up to date information about swimming at Rhode Island beaches, go to the HEALTH website at www.health.ri.gov/beaches or for recorded information about RI Bathing beaches call (401) 222-2751.

 

$10,000 Loan To Fox Still Outstanding

The $10,000 loan that House Speaker Gordon Fox received from lobbyist Ray Rickman back in 2009 is still outstanding.  Rickman amended his disclosure filings from 2011-2013 last week to reflect the loan. The secretary of state’s office is investigating to see if Rickman intentionally failed to disclose the loan.

Narragansett Crash Victim Identified

The Narragansett man that crashed his motorcycle on Boston Neck Road on Tuesday has been identified as 23 year old Jacob Clauson.  WPRI reports that police spotted Clauson at a red light and knew he had a suspended license.  Clauson then revved the morotcycle engine and took off at a high rate of speed. He then lost control of the morotcycle and crashed. Clauson was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries.  Charges are pending against Clauson and the crash remains under investigation.

Schilling Skipping Hearing Today

Former Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling will not be in attendance at a hearing today on whether he violated Rhode Island lobbying laws.  Schilling and 38 Studios board member Thomas Zaccagnino are accused of illegally operating as lobbyists.  Secretary of State Ralph Mollis called the hearing to allow the men to defend themselves, but neither will be on hand.  The company received a state backed 75-million-dollar loan and folded less than two-years later.

Pell Center At Salve Gets $15,000 Grant

The Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy at Salve Regina University has received a $15,000 grant from the Verizon Foundation.  The grant will be used to further the centers initiatives to strengthen cyber-security in Rhode Island companies in the next academic year.

Black Ships Festival In Newport

The opening ceremonies of the 31st Annual Black Ships Festival will be held at 10:30 tomorrow morning. The ceremony will take place at Touro Park on Bellevue Avenue.  The three day festival includes a variety of events, activities and workshops. You can get details on the festival on thier website www.NewportEvents.com .

Cape Wind Staging Set For RI

The state's efforts to make the Quonset Business Park a major player in the wind power industry appear to be taking shape.  The board of directors that runs the park has approved a lease of 13 acres of waterfront space to Cape Wind Associates.  Massachusetts based Cape Wind is planning to install 130 wind turbines in Nantucket Sound.  Deepwater Wind is planning to use the business park to help launch their five unit wind farm in the waters off Block Island.

Concussion Training Bill Becomes Law

A bill that requires all Rhode Island school nurses to undergo training for concussions is now law.  The measure passed by the legislature this year expands current law requiring coaches and volunteers to undergo concussion training to include school nurses.  The change is designed to help high school athletes who may suffer a head injury during a game, but did not show signs of a concussion until later. 

Raytheon To Lay Off Employees

Raytheon will be laying off employees in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The defense contractor has not said how many people will be affected by the layoffs in the Integrated Defense Systems unit.  The Waltham, Massachusetts based unit specializes in air and missile defense and radars. Raytheon employs about 1000 people in Rhode Island and over 11,000 in Massachusetts.

RI Remains West Nile Free

Rhode Island remains West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis free.  The state Department of Environmental Management says they have tested mosquitoes from 149 pools across Rhode Island.  So far, none of the tests have revealed any infected mosquitoes.  West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis are normally found in mosquitoes in the area until the first frost.

$1 Million Scratch Lottery Ticket Sold On Block Island

A vacationing New Jersey man won $1 million dollars on a $20 scratch lottery ticket he bought on Block Island. Thomas Mistele of Flemington New Jersy bought the winning ticket at Block Island Pharmacy. Mistele is unsure how he will use the winnings, he may buy a new car and save for retirement.

RI & CT Worst Roads In Nation

Rhode Island is tied with Connecticut with the unwanted distinction of having the worst roads in the county.  The report from the White House says that RI  has 41% of its roads listed as being in poor condition.  The report was released as President Obama announced a $300 billion dollar proposal to improve the nation’s roads and bridges.

RI Attorney General Suing State Agencies

Attorney General Peter Kilmartin is filing open government lawsuits against a pair of Rhode Island state agencies.  Kilmartin says the state Department of Business Regulation failed to respond to an Access to Public Records Act request from the media.  Also facing a lawsuit is the state Properties Committee, which is accused of failing to file minutes from numerous meetings in a timely fashion.

Aircraft Hatch Washes Ashore In Westerly

An aircraft hatch that washed up on the shore of a Westerly beach on Thursday was a piece of a plane that crashed last week in Long Island Sound.  The pilot of the plane was killed in that crash and was the only occupant. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

Newport YMCA Gets $10,000 Grant

The Newport County YMCA has received a grant from the Newport County Fund to raise awareness about the sexual abuse of children and strengthen efforts to combat it.  The Daily News reports the $10,000 grant will be used by the YMCA to train it’s staff in a nationally recognized program offered by the “Darkness Into Light” organization out of South Carolina.  The Training will take place at Child & Family headquarters.

38 Studios Defendants Must Give Additional Testimony

The Rhode Island judge presiding over the 38 Studios lawsuit has ruled that First Southwest, Wells Fargo and Adler Pollock & Sheehan must give additional depositions. The three defendants had asked the judge to rule that they would not need to provide additional testimony. That request was denied. The Economic Development Corporation has sued 14 parties over the collapse of the failed 38 Studios, which received a $75 million dollar state-guaranteed loan.

RI Getting Another $3.3 Million In Federal Disaster Recovery Funds

Rhode Island will be getting another round of federal disaster recovery funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.  The $3.3 million dollar grant will be used to improve public services, housing and flood prevention following Superstorm Sandy. The funds will be used in various communities in Washington County including Charlestown, Narragansett and Westerly.

DEM Tagging Trees In Newport Today

Department of Environmental Management staff members will be tagging trees across RI to raise awareness of invasive forest insects like the Asian longhorned beetle and emerald ash borer. Officials  hope the tags will help with early detection of the pests to help get rid of them.  Tagging begins today in Newport and will continue the rest of the week in various cities and towns throughout the state.

Boat Capsizes Off Coast In Tiverton

Several people are safely back on land after their boat capsized off the coast of Tiverton.  Rescuers were called to the scene yesterday afternoon but the people  had already been plucked from the water by a passing boat.  No Injuries were reported, and the U.S. Coast Guard is handling the investigation into the incident.

Free Voter ID Event Coming To Newport

Rhode Island’s voter ID law will be in full effect for the September 9th primary. The Secretary of State’s Office will be offering free voter ID’s to voters that don’t have current identification.  The voter ID events will kick off July 16th and be held in various communities in July and August. There is a voter ID event scheduled for July 21st at Newport City Hall from 10-12.

 

Below is a list of upcoming dates and places where the public may obtain a FREE Voter ID, provided by the Office of Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis.

 

• July 16 - Eleanor Slater Hospital / Zambarano Unit, 1 pm - 3 pm

• July 21 - Newport City Hall - Lower Level, 10 am - 12 pm

• July 22 - New Shoreham Community Center, 12 pm - 2 pm

• July 23 - Richmond Senior Center, 10 am - 12 pm

• July 24 - Coventry Town Hall, 10 am - 12 pm

• July 25 - Cumberland Senior Center, 10 am - 12 pm

• July 30 - Central Falls City Hall, 10 am - 12 pm

• August 5 -South Kingstown Senior Center, 10 am - 12 pm

• August 6 -EPOCH Assisted Living, Prov. (Blackstone Blvd) 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm

• August 7 -EPOCH Assisted Living - East Side (Butler Avenue), 10:00 am - 12 pm

• August 28 -Jesse M. Smith Library, Burrillville, 12 pm - 2 pm

Traffic Committee Meeting In Jamestown Tomorrow

The Jamestown Traffic Committee will be meeting tomorrow night. The are a few items on the agenda including the driving conditions along North Main Road. the request for a center line, fog lines, and Tashtassuc Road exit improvements. The meeting will be held at 6pm at Jamestown Town Hall.

Cape Wind Looking For Space In Quonset

Cape Wind is exploring options for a staging and assembly area at the Quonset Business Park. They are currently building a terminal in New Bedford, but are looking to see if they could lease the Quonset site if needed due to the uncertainty of the completion date of the New Bedford project. The Quonset board will be considering the short term Cape Wind lease option next week.

Two Warwick Beaches Re-Open

The state department of health has recommended the reopening of Oakland Beach and Conimicut Point in Warwick.  The beaches were closed due to high bacteria counts. Those counts have now returned to acceptable levels.

Rhode Island Doctors Reprimanded By Board

Three Rhode Island doctors are having their wrists slapped by the state Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline.  Anesthesiologist Dr. Keith Perry agreed to receive counseling after having an outburst in front of an autistic child.  Dr. Denis Moonan Jr. of North Providence was cited for offenses related to drug prescribing practices.  Warwick urologist Dr. Vincent Zizza was ordered to receive medical training after a series of complaints about his handling of their care.

Commanding Officer Retires

Captain Jim Cuhna, The Commanding Officer at the Naval Station Academy Preparatory School, will be retiring today after 30 years of service.  Captain Mike Doherty will be replacing Cuhna in a formal change of command ceremony at Naval Station Newport.

 

Twin River Purchase Biloxi Hard Rock Casino

Twin River has purchased the Hard Rock Casino in Biloxi Mississippi for $250 million dollars.  The purchase should help strengthen Twin River as it get’s ready for the threat of gambling from Massachusetts.

Chafee Signs Twin River Bill

Governor Lincoln Chafee's signature is now on bills that seek to drum up more business at the Twin River gaming facility.  The measure allows Twin River to issue credit lines known as markers of up to 50-thousand-dollars per patron, and establishes procedures for issuing them.  The governor also signed a bill making it illegal for casinos to use real estate liens to collect on markers.  In addition, Chafee signed a bill that extends the hours that casinos can serve alcoholic beverages.

Lobbyist Must File Additional Paperwork Regarding Loan

Lobbyist Ray Rickman must file additional reports with regards to the $10,000 personal loan he gave former House Speaker Gordon Fox.  Rickman amended his 2009 report to show that he gave Fox the loan back in 2009. The AP reports that the secretary of state’s office has said that Rickman must file and amend subsequent reports from 2011-2013 to reflect the balance of the loan.

Feds Supply Crime Victim Support Funds

Rhode Island is receiving just under two-million-dollars from the federal government to help victims of crime.  The money comes from the U.S. Department of Justice Victim Assistance Program.  It will be used to support direct services for victims of violent crime, including mental health counseling and legal assistance.  Senator Sheldon Whitehouse says violent crime can mean a long recovery for victims and their community, and this funding will provide important services to Rhode Islanders.

Rhode Islanders Are Covered

A new report indicates that the Affordable Care Act is getting Rhode Islanders covered with health insurance.  The report from WalletHub.com shows that Rhode Island has the second lowest rate of uninsured people in the nation at five-percent.  However, before the health insurance reform law took effect, Rhode Island's uninsured rate was much higher at 14-percent. 

Teen Crashes Car In Westerly

A car driven by a fifteen year old crashed into a telephone pole on Potter Hill Road in Westerly yesterday morning putting 4 teens in the hospital. 3 of the teens were treated and released at Westerly Hospital and the 4th teen was taken to Hasbro with non-life threatening injuries.  The driver is being charged with driving without a license. There was no sign of alcohol in the vehicle and more charges could follow as the investigation of the crash continues.

Mega Bus Begins Newport Service

Mega Bus will begin service from Newport to and from New York, New Bedford and Fairhaven, MA.  The two day service begins this Friday and Saturday from the Newport Visitors Center located at 23 Americas Cup Avenue.  You can get trip information and fares on their website megabus.com.

North Kingstown Store Robbed

North Kingstown Police are looking for 5 people that were caught on video stealing from JW Graham earlier this month.  Two women and three men entered the store and distracted employees and customers while they were stealing items. Anyone with information is being asked to contact the North Kingstown Police Department at 294-3316.

RITBA Warns Of Phishing Scan

The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority is warning against a phishing scam.  The email scam has the subject as: In arrears for driving on toll road. The Turnpike and Bridge Authority is advising you to delete the message without opening, responding or downloading it.  If you have any questions about the validity of any message received from E-ZPass, please contact RIBTA E-ZPass on line at ezpassribta.com or call 877-743-9727.

King Park Beach Reopens

The Health Department has recommended the re-opening of King Park Beach in Newport.  The beach was closed to swimming due to high bacteria counts in the water. The latest water samples show bacteria levels are once again acceptable.

46th Newport Music Festival Starts Friday

The 46th Newport Music Festival starts on Friday and continues through July 27th with over 60 concerts scheduled at venues throughout Newport. Morning concerts are at 11am, afternoons usually at 4pm and evening performances will be at either 8 or 9pm. You can purchase tickets or get performance information and locations on their website at newportmusic.org.

State Police Cancel Silver Alert

State police have cancelled the Silver Alert for a missing Exeter man. Joseph Sabins, 76, was found in the woods behind South County Trail.

RI State Police Issue Silver Alert

Rhode Island State Police have issued a Silver Alert.  Joseph Sabins, 76, of Exeter was last seen yesterday around noon on South County Trail. Sabins is a white male, 5’ 9’’ tall, 220lbs with blue eyes and balding white hair and suffers from dementia. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to call the State Police at 444-1064.

Portsmouth Wants Toll Money Refunded

The town of Portsmouth is asking a judge to have the Rhode Island Bridge and Turnpike Authority use the money that was collected from tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge to pay for legal expenses and refund motorists who crossed the bridge.  The tolls on the bridge were shut down last month.

RI Getting $2.5 Million In Funds For Historical Properties Damaged By Sandy

Rhode Island will be receiving more than $2.5 million in federal funding to repair historic properties damaged by superstorm Sandy and conduct archaeological surveys. Money will be going to support 23 restoration projects in 10 municipalities including Newport, Westerly, Narragansett and Block Island.

E. G. Police Department Warn Residents Of Vehicle Break-Ins

After numerous break-ins, East Greenwich police are urging residents to lock their cars at night and secure their valuables.  Over the past 10 days there have been numerous vehicle break-ins and 4 vehicles have been stolen. They are asking residents to report any suspicious vehicles, persons or activity to the police department.

Old Rocky Point Buildings Coming Down

The two largest buildings at the former Rocky Point amusement park in Warwick are about to disappear.  The state Department of Environmental Management is beginning demolition of the Shore Dinner Hall and the Palladium-Windjammer building.  The buildings have seen better days, and are being cleared away to make way for a new coastal state park.  Rocky Point closed in the 1990s, and the property was acquired by the state for more than nine-million dollars last year.

Taylor Swift Throws 4th Of July Party In RI

Taylor Swift knows how to throw a party.  The country superstar turned her Rhode Island beachside mansion into a Fourth of July getaway for a large group of celebrity friends this weekend.  On Sunday she posted a photo on Instagram revealing all the famous faces with whom she spent the holiday.  The guest list included Emma Stone and Andrew Garfield, "Girls" creator Lena Dunham, fellow singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson and "Gossip Girl" star Jessica Szohr.  Taylor documented the events of the weekend, which included setting up a "slip 'n slide" in the pouring rain, hanging out on a boat, hitting the beach and homemade pies. Taylor wrapped up her massive "Red" tour earlier this year and is now said to be at work on her next album.

Chafee Signs Table Games Legislation

Governor Chafee has signed legislation that will put a referendum on the November ballot about adding table games to Newport Grand.  The referendum will have to pass both statewide and in Newport. The last time the question was on the ballot it passed statewide, but Newport voters rejected it.

Hall of Fame Tennis Championship Tournament Is Underway

The ATP World Tour is underway and top tennis players from around the world are playing through Sunday at the International Tennis Hall Of Fame in Newport.  The Hall of Fame Tennis Championship Tournament is the only event played on grass courts in North America. There will be special events surrounding the tournament all week. You can get more information on-line at tennisfame.com

International Tennis Hall Of Fame CEO Leaving

After 35 years as CEO of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Mark Stenning will be turning over the reigns to ATP World Tour Pro Todd Martin.  Martin is expected to take over in September and Stenning will help with special projects through most of next year.

RI State Police Have New Child Porn Weapon

Rhode Island State Police have a new weapon in the fight against child pornography.  The golden Labrador is trained to sniff out electronic devices that include hard drives, thumb drives and other items.  Child pornographers are known to hide their stash carefully, sometimes inside radios and inside ceilings and walls.  The dog was trained by earning food for finding electronic devices, and has already assisted in an arrest.

Free Skin Cancer Screenings Start Today

The Department of Health along with the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Rhode Island Hospital and Senator Jack Reed kick off the Sun Smarts Sunscreen Campaign at Scarborough Beach in Narragansett today.  It’s just one of the many free skin cancer screenings that will be held at Rhode Island beaches in July and August.

Updated 4th of July Weekend Postponements

Newport has postponed its fireworks display over Newport Harbor to Saturday due to inclement weather.

 

The Newport 375th Anniversary Committee's 4th of July concerts have been cancelled.  The concerts will be rescheduled throughout the year.

 

 

Arthur Postpones Fireworks Displays

Arthur is now a Category 1 hurricane and several Rhode Island cities have altered their Fourth of July celebrations.  Providence, East Providence and Warwick all have made the decision to postpone their events from tomorrow until Saturday.  The current forecast calls for the storms all clearing out by early Saturday, with clear skies and low humidity expected for the fireworks shows.

Portsmouth Traffic Pattern To Change For Fireworks

In Portsmouth, part of Middle Road from Hedly Street to Stubtoe Lane will be closed from 7-10 tomorrow night for the fireworks at Escobars Highland Farms.  The fireworks are scheduled for 9:30 tomorrow night and the rain date is scheduled for Saturday.

RI State Police Stepping Up Patrols

Rhode Island State Police are planning to increase drunk driving enforcement efforts over the Independence Day holiday.  State Police are stepping up patrols throughout the weekend and hitting the road with the message "drive sober or get pulled over."  Troopers will have an increased presence at the fireworks display in Bristol, and throughout the weekend on Block Island. 

Holiday Closings

A reminder that all Local,State and Federal Government offices will be closed for the Independence Day Holiday tomorrow.  Post offices and banks will also be closed and RIPTA will run on the holiday schedule.  Trash pick up for Newport, Middletown and Tiverton will be delayed by one day. In Jamestown and Portsmouth the transfer stations will be closed for the holiday as well.

Bristol Man Facing More Charges

A Bristol man accused of hiding a video camera inside a women's locker room of a Seekonk gym is now facing similar charges in Rhode Island.  Police say Mark McVay is accused of using his phone to record a video of a teenage girl at a church in Barrington.  Police in Barrington began investigating after being alerted by Seekonk Police of possible criminal activity in their jurisdiction.  McVay is charged with video voyeurism.

NECAP Testing Requirement Pushed Back

New legislation has pushed the New England Common Assessment Program standardized testing as a requirement for a diploma back to 2017.  The legislation was passed into law without the governor’s signature.

EPA Wants Stricter Water Quality Regulations

The EPA wants stricter regulations on water quality guidelines that could lead to more beach closures.  The current guidelines call for bacteria levels to measure 140 units of bacteria per water sample. The new guidelines would lower that to 60 units of bacteria per water sample.  If states decide not to adopt the new guidelines, they risk losing federal grant money that pays for the testing of the water quality at the beaches.  The EPA is expected to deliver a decision on the new guidelines by the end of the month.

Block Island Woman Facing Charges

A Block Island woman is facing charges accusing her of embezzling 187-thousand-dollars from her former employer.  Sara Sprague Turenne was working as a bookkeeper at a Block Island excavation and concrete supply company when the alleged thefts occurred.  Turenne allegedly wrote unauthorized business checks to herself that were later cashed or deposited into her bank account.  She's charged with larceny and forgery, and is free on bond.

NewportFilm Accounces 2014 Schedule

Newport Film has announced it’s 2014 indoor/outdoor Summer Screening Series.  The series which includes some of the industry’s best-of-festival documentaries kicks off on July 10th with a screening of Bella Vita at outdoors at Queen Anne Square.  You can get more information on their website Newportfilm.com.

RI Among Most Sedated States

Rhode Island is among the most sedated states in the nation.  The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Rhode Island is fourth highest in the nation in use of prescription sedatives.  The drugs in the survey are sold under brands that include Xanax, Ativan and Valium.  Rhode Island health care providers wrote 60 prescriptions of these drugs per 100 residents, which is well above the national rate of 37 per 100 people.

Senate Approves Newport Grand Bill Again

The Rhode Island Senate has again passed a measure related to the possible addition of table games at Newport Grand.  The bill placing a question on the ballot in November asking whether table games should be allowed at Newport Grand passed by a 32 to two vote.  It had been approved with 24 votes last month.  That fell short of the required supermajority needed for passage of a bill that authorizes public money for private purposes.

Barrington Police Issue Warning To Residents

Barrington residents are being asked to lock their doors at night and to use their alarm systems if they have one.  The warning issued by Barrington Police comes after 4 break-ins while people were sleeping and cars being stolen. They are asking for people to report any information on the burglaries or any suspicious neighborhood activity to the Barrington Police Tip Line at 437-3933.

Tiverton Woman Accused Of Stealing State Benefits

A Tiverton woman is facing charges for allegedly stealing state benefits.  State Police say 31-year-old Tiffany Briere intentionally under reported her income in order to be eligible for state benefits.  She allegedly collected 34-hundred-dollars in supplemental nutritional assistance and 23-thousand-dollars in RIte Care benefits.  Briere is facing a maximum of ten-years in prison if convicted of obtaining money under false pretenses.

Police Offer Block Island Holiday Tips

Police are offering some helpful tips for people planning to visit Block Island over the Independence Day holiday weekend.  Officials say drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited on any state or town beach.  Also, visitors are reminded that having projectile fireworks are illegal and violators could be arrested.  Also look for stepped up DUI patrols on the Island.

Gas Prices Rise Going Into Holiday Weekend

Gasoline prices in Rhode Island are sky high heading into the Independence Day holiday.  Triple-A Southern New England says a gallon of self serve regular gasoline is currently three-dollars-and-75-cents.  That's the highest prices heading into the July Fourth holiday since 2008.  A year ago at this time, Ocean State residents were paying 19-cents a gallon less than they are today.

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