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Articles by Rob Duca
New Hampshire Home
Built with a gently sloping standing-seam metal roof to avoid towering over its neighbors, the home offers sweeping views of the Green Mountains and the Connecticut River. Photography by: Ryan Bent When asked to describe the style of this Hanover home, the home-owners and the builder/designer came up with their own label: Mountain Modern. Little about the house fits neatly into an architectural box.
Problem-Solving Pros
LaValley’s West Lebanon showroom encompasses more than 5,000 square feet and offers customers 22 different room displays. Sheila Varnese, Kitchen designer One of LaValley’s locations in West Lebanon is where Sheila Varnese has worked for the past 25 years. Founded by Harold and Gerry LaValley, the third-generation family business provides one-stop shopping for building and home improvement, with a philosophy centered on helping customers bring their vision to life.
Sentimental Journey
Instead of a grass lawn, natural stone and native plantings were used in the landscaping, bringing nature toward the cottage. This rustic cottage in Harrisville sits so close to the water’s edge that you can drop a nickel off the porch and it will always find its way into the lake. The cedar-shingled cottage echoes back to an earlier time, when seasonal lakefront cottage colonies dotted the New England landscape.
Newport Concours Motor Week Bigger than Ever
When it began in 2019, the goal behind Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week was to educate people on the city’s rich automobile history that dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. But in just seven years, the week has become one of the world’s finest car shows, featuring rare, exotic and ultra expensive automobiles that are not often found in one location. Think luxury, elegance, engineering, exclusivity and revolutionary design.
New Hampshire Home
A compact footprint, a grand old tree and a design that makes every inch count. It’s impossible to miss the majestic elm tree that hovers over this cozy New England-style home in downtown Exeter. The tree dominates the back corner of the property, and it played a role in the design of the 1,200-square-foot cottage. A massive elm tree stands guard over the New England-style cottage and the she-shed behind it.
New Hampshire Home
Kitchen designer Linda Cloutier says never underestimate creativity and patience. Cream-toned cabinetry, richly detailed millwork and a generous marble-topped island give this light-filled kitchen a refined yet welcoming presence. Although a native of Syracuse, New York, Linda Cloutier has made New Hampshire her home since moving to Stratham in 1990 and founding her own design company, Lifestyles Kitchens and Baths, two years later.
IYRS Launches Yacht Design Program
Students will be required to design a recreational sailboat and a recreational power boat. As one of the boating capitals of the world, it feels only natural that Newport would serve as the backdrop for a program in yacht design. And with its rich history of maritime instruction and deep industry connections, the IYRS School of Technology & Trades is the ideal fit to launch such a program. Beginning Sept.
The Beauty of a New Old House
With more than 60 windows and three second-floor balconies overlooking Wentworth Harbor, the water views are endless. The homeowner of this New Castle home when she sees it from across Wentworth Harbor: “It’s kind of gentle, curvy and classic,” she says. “It’s just a beautiful style.” From the outside, the new Shingle-style house appears as though it were built around 1900.
New Hampshire Home
A black-and-white tempered sheet vinyl floor, surrounded by white walls and a white subway tile backsplash, makes sure the pink cabinets remain the star of the show. Maggie Smith had been talking with her husband, Scott, about renovating the kitchen of their Exeter home for two years, until one day, Scott said, “Let’s just go for it.” “It was probably like, ‘Stop talking about it and do it,’” she says now, laughing.
New Hampshire Home
The living room features a stone fireplace, nickel gap walls and a row of windows offering panoramic lake views. When Tracy and Chris Tilson built their house in Hebron three years ago, their focus was as much on the lake it overlooks as on the house. “It’s a departure from your classic lakefront house,” says Tim Long, owner and president of Meridian. “In many ways, the interior really feels like you’re walking into a resort or spa.
Middletown’s Caleb Leys Selected by Tigers in MLB Draft
When Caleb Leys was playing Little League baseball in Middletown, his dream was to play summer ball with the Newport Gulls. Playing professional baseball? That was more of a fantasy. But now Leys will be getting that chance after being selected on July 14 in the fourth round of the MLB draft by the Detroit Tigers. “This blows that [dream] out of the water,” Leys said.
Hall of Fame Open Brings Back Women’s Pro Tennis
There will be plenty of changes for fans to see when the new incarnation of the Hall of Fame Open begins on July 6 on the hallowed grass lawn at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The date itself is new, with the tournament now being held during the second week of Wimbledon instead of the week after the championships. The Hall of Fame induction ceremony, previously held during the Open, has been moved to August as a standalone event.
Iconic Teeth of the Dog One of Many Reasons to Visit Dominican Republic – New England dot Golf
LA RAMONA, Dominican Republic – Since opening in 1971, the oceanside Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo Resort and Villas in La Romana, Dominican Republic, has consistently been rated as one of the top 50 golf courses in the world for its breathtaking views and white-knuckle challenges. But now, as part of the resort’s 50th anniversary celebration, the iconic Pete Dye design is being modernized under the direction of Jerry Pate Design in an extensive restoration that will take nearly one year.
Rays Select Middletown’s Andrade in MLB Draft
When Middletown native Ryan Andrade transferred from the University of Rhode Island following his sophomore season to the University of Pittsburgh, he did so to test himself against a higher level of competition. Soon, he will be taking another step up in class that will demand even more of the 21-year-old Middletown High graduate. The 6-foot-2, 175-pound right- handed pitcher was selected on July 15 by the Tampa Bay Rays in the seventh round of the Major League Baseball draft.
RI Duo Hope to Make U.S. Senior Open a Special Homecoming
The U.S. Senior Open will be stacked with legendary names looking to add to their illustrious resumes at Newport Country Club. Among the 156 golfers in the field are four U.S. Open and 11 U.S. Senior Open champions, including defending champion and Hall-of- Famer Bernhard Langer. But few of them will garner more robust support or hear louder cheers than two golfers who call Rhode Island home.
More History Awaits Newport CC in U.S. Senior Open
Chris Coen, the golf course superintendent at Newport Country Club, lives on the property, so the endless hours he is spending preparing for the U.S. Senior Open that runs June 27-30 is not much different than any other summer week. “My days are chaotic, but still normal,” said Coen, whose home borders what will play as the fourth hole in the championship.
Gulls Come Together to Win Seventh NECBL Title
As a summer baseball league designed mainly to develop players for future stardom on the professional level, the New England Collegiate Baseball League isn’t really about winning. But you wouldn’t have known that from watching the Newport Gulls this summer. The Gulls rolled through the regular season with a 31-11 record, easily winning the Coastal Division.
City Welcomes Ocean Race Winners
By Newport This Week Staff | on July 27, 2023 By Rob Duca It didn’t look good for The Ocean Race favorites as they sailed the longest leg in the history of the event. The idea that they would someday be savoring victory on their home turf in Newport, as they will with a celebration on Aug. 4, seemed as far away as the conclusion of Leg 3 in Brazil. There had been broken battens in the mainsail, damaged rudders, damaged foil downlines and a huge tear in the mainsail.
Hall of Fame Open Boasts History and Ambiance
Tournament director Brewer Rowe calls the Infosys Hall of Fame Open “the most fan-friendly professional sports experience you can have.” “The highest row we have is 25, which in most stadiums would be considered the lower bowl,” he says.
Tennis Hall of Fame Names New President, CEO
He isn’t the first person most people think of when they hear his surname, but in some ways, he might be more synonymous with tennis than his Hall-of-Fame brother. Patrick McEnroe, 56, has been involved in virtually every aspect of the sport, as a player, broadcaster, Davis Cup captain and general manager of player development with the USTA.
Around Town - Newport This Week
By Community Submission | on July 01, 2024 The herd is here. More than 50 life-size, hand- crafted elephants were installed on the side lawn of Rough Point this morning. Others will be placed at Salve Regina and The Breakers along the Cliff Walk and a 50-foot one on the lawn at the Great Friends Meeting House.
Return of the Newport RI International Hall of Fame Open
By Newport This Week Staff | on July 14, 2022 By Rob Duca Spectators lean against the railing, just a few feet from the play on courts one and two. Others take in the action while relaxing on the steps, the benches and the balconies of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Youngsters stream through the front entrance with rackets in hand, anxiously awaiting the chance to participate in junior clinics. Players casually stroll the grounds, accessible and happy to sign autographs.
Lull Before the Storm for American Magic Head Coach
At the moment, Tom Burnham, of Middletown likens American Magic’s preparation to capture the 2024 America’s Cup to that of a pro football team in the offseason. “We’re making trades, finding new talent, and doing some crosstraining [by sailing in other regattas] so that we can learn how to work with each other,” he said. But it won’t be long before the pressure ramps up for Burnham, who will serve as head coach, for American Magic in the quest to win the Cup in Barcelona, Spain.
Long-awaited Sailing Museum Opens May 10
More than four years after former mayor Harry Winthrop entered into discussions to bring a national sailing Hall of Fame to Newport, The Sailing Museum will finally open its doors to the public. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on May 6, and the public can begin touring the museum on May 10. “Opening the museum fulfills a longstanding vision of the organization’s founders,” said Heather Ruhsam, the museum’s executive director.
Guest Column: Rob Duca, Longtime Sportswriter Recalls Meeting Some Legends
During more 25 years as a sports columnist for the Cape Cod Times and nearly 10 years as editor of New England Golf & Leisure magazine, I have been afforded the opportunity to speak with many famous and fascinating athletes.
'Swiss Village' to Remain Open Space
Scenes from the SVF Foundation Visitor’s Day headquarters at Harrison Avenue. (Photos provided by SVF) The Aquidneck Land Trust has been granted a conservation easement spanning 25 acres of historic land in Newport. The property was first developed as a sustainable farm in the early 1900s and now will forever be restricted from future development.
Newport Police Closed Doris Duke Case, Again
1960s vintage image of Eduardo Tirella and Doris Duke. With the publication of his book, “Homicide at Rough Point,” author Peter Lance promised to prove that tobacco heiress Doris Duke got away with murder when she struck and killed her employee with her Dodge Polara station wagon in 1966. But the Newport Police Department was not convinced by Lance’s assertions. After opening a review following release of the book, the NPD determined on Nov.
Vineyard Vines Arrival Positive Sign
Professionals in the commercial real estate industry view it as an encouraging sign that national retailers could be returning to Newport with the arrival of Vineyard Vines, which opened a new location on Nov. 5 at Brick Market Place. “It’s a positive step forward,” said Evan Smith, president and CEO of Discover Newport. “But what a roller-coaster ride it’s been the past two years. We’ve seen lots of stores downsize or go out of business; not just in Newport but nationally.
Newporter On the Cutting Edge at Titleist
With more than 100 patents to his credit, Rob Blink says firing golf balls out of an air cannon at 155 feet per second is part of the science he evaluates. Most of the time, Rob Blink has a smile on his face when the television cameras zoom in on the golf ball during a PGA Tour event. That’s because 69 percent of the top 100 pros on tour play a Titleist ball, and in a sense, their success is his success.
Discover Newport Sees a Slow Rebuilding
Discover Newport CEO Evan Smith is pleased with the new location of the organization’s offices and temporary visitor center. Pedestrian-only Long Wharf, he said, is an important artery that serves as a portal between America’s Cup Avenue and Washington Square, feeding visitors onto Thames Street and up toward the entire Broadway corridor.
Sailing Hall Nears Completion, Set to Induct New Class
Lynne Shore, former executive director of Sail Newport. The Sailing Museum, the name given to the new National Sailing Hall of Fame, remains on tap to open its doors to the public in May 2022. But the first major event to be held in the reconstructed building will be on Oct. 16 when 11 new members are inducted into the Hall of Fame, including Lynne Shore, former executive director of Sail Newport, and former Newport resident Rear Admiral Stephen B. Luce.
New Light Shed on Historic Newporter
To mark Independence Day this year, historian Keith Strokes transcribed and will post an 1887 speech by Mahlon Van Horne, a civil rights leaders in 19th century America to 1696heritage.com. Most Americans are familiar with the accomplishments of Jackie Robinson, Rosa Parks and Booker T. Washington, all descendants of slaves who overcame racial prejudice. Keith Stokes believes that, at least in Newport, the names Harriet Alleyne Rice, Pompe Stevens, Marcus Wheatland and Rev.
Rogers Winds Down Unique Football Season
By Rob Duca | on April 23, 2021 Rogers senior quarterback Max Newsome (1) rushes for a big gain in the Vikings win against Pilgrim. (Photos by Jen Carter) By Rob Duca Football is meant for crisp, fall nights, with face masks adorning only the front of helmets. Normally, each game follows a week of intense preparation. Practices are daily, and can often be long, and players work together to fine-tune the game plan.
Rogers Winds Down Unique Football Season
Rogers senior quarterback Max Newsome (1) rushes for a big gain in the Vikings win against Pilgrim. (Photos by Jen Carter) Football is meant for crisp, fall nights, with face masks adorning only the front of helmets. Normally, each game follows a week of intense preparation. Practices are daily, and can often be long, and players work together to fine-tune the game plan. But none of that has happened in this strange, spring pandemic season for the Rogers High football team.
Cicilline Stepped into the Capitol Spotlight
By Rob Duca | on February 25, 2021 Congressman David Cicilline, left, walks with fellow impeachment managers into the proceedings. By Rob Duca Although a congressman from one of the country’s smallest states, Rhode Island Rep. David Cicilline had one of the most prominent voices earlier this month as one of nine House impeachment managers laying out evidence to convict former President Donald Trump in the Senate.
Cicilline Stepped into the Capitol Spotlight
By ohtadmin | on February 25, 2021 Congressman David Cicilline, left, walks with fellow impeachment managers into the proceedings. Although a congressman from one of the country’s smallest states, Rhode Island Rep. David Cicilline had one of the most prominent voices earlier this month as one of nine House impeachment managers laying out evidence to convict former President Donald Trump in the Senate.
Attendance Rates O.K., But Are Students Falling Behind
By Rob Duca | on February 18, 2021 By Rob Duca and Andy Long The Newport School Committee was told by the principals of the city’s three schools on Feb. 9 that attendance rates in the school year have ranged from 87 to 93 percent. Although those attendance rates represent a drop from previous years, the true story of this pandemic school year is difficult to determine solely based on the numbers, according to the educators.
Attendance Rates O.K., But Are Students Falling Behind
By ohtadmin | on February 18, 2021 The Newport School Committee was told by the principals of the city’s three schools on Feb. 9 that attendance rates in the school year have ranged from 87 to 93 percent. Although those attendance rates represent a drop from previous years, the true story of this pandemic school year is difficult to determine solely based on the numbers, according to the educators.
Rogers Boys Hoop Off to Solid Start in Return to D-2
By ohtadmin | on February 11, 2021 Roshawn Fleming (11) goes up over two Tiverton defenders during Rogers’ win on Feb. 6. The Rogers High boys basketball team had won two of its first three games heading into a Feb. 10 home matchup against Pilgrim High. But head coach Mike Newsome knew that the ultimate story of the Vikings in this pandemic-shortened nine-game season would be told over the next week.
No Magic for U.S. in America's Cup
By ohtadmin | on February 04, 2021 It was a rough ride for American Magic in the Prada Cup Series. After capsizing on Jan. 18, American Magic was eliminated by Italy in the semifinals with four straight losses. (Photo courtesy of New York Yacht Club). In one dramatic, nearly catastrophic moment on Jan.
No Magic for U.S. in America's Cup
By Rob Duca | on February 04, 2021 It was a rough ride for American Magic in the Prada Cup Series. After capsizing on Jan. 18, American Magic was eliminated by Italy in the semifinals with four straight losses. (Photo courtesy of New York Yacht Club). By Rob Duca In one dramatic, nearly catastrophic moment on Jan.
Hingham boys basketball keeps finding its way into the win column
HINGHAM – After opening the season with two losses, the Hingham boys basketball team has gotten on a roll, winning three straight games by double-digit margins. But the Harbormen knew they would learn how good they really were this week with a matchup against defending state champion Whitman-Hanson on Jan. 29. "That will be a big test for us,” Head Coach Bob Kniffen said last week.
Forbes takes on new role as team leader for Hingham High boys hockey
HINGHAM – Without a state championship to play for in this COVID-restriction boys hockey season, Hingham High has one goal in mind, said senior Paul Forbes, one of the team’s captains. “We want to go undefeated,” he said. If the Harbormen accomplish that - and they won their first two games over North Quincy and Silver Lake - Forbes will likely be a major reason.
Returning talent gives Pembroke/Silver Lake gymnastics a chance to stay on top
KINGSTON – With back-to-back Patriot League championships under its belt, the Pembroke/Silver Lake gymnastic team has good reason to believe a third title is on the way in 2021, despite a pandemic-shortened schedule that will see the co-op squad compete in only five regular season meets. “As a whole, we have a strong group of athletes,” Head Coach Cristy Schimmel said. “We’re well-rounded and we should be good in all events. I’m hopeful that we can compete for a title.
Commercial Real Estate Still at a Premium
By ohtadmin | on January 14, 2021 There is good and bad news when it comes to Newport’s commercial real estate market, depending on who you ask. But one thing property owners, real estate brokers and business owners agree on is that a great deal of uncertainty remains, and pegging a time frame for a return to normal for the industry remains entirely unpredictable. Commercial property owners continue to lose tenants who have been unable to weather the pandemic.
Commercial Real Estate Still at a Premium
By Rob Duca | on January 14, 2021 By Rob Duca There is good and bad news when it comes to Newport’s commercial real estate market, depending on who you ask. But one thing property owners, real estate brokers and business owners agree on is that a great deal of uncertainty remains, and pegging a time frame for a return to normal for the industry remains entirely unpredictable. Commercial property owners continue to lose tenants who have been unable to weather the pandemic.
Hingham boys basketball will be in Patriot League mix
HINGHAM – With returning Patriot League All-Stars Jack Hurley and Steven White leading the way, and an experienced roster that goes 10 players deep, the Hingham boys basketball team expects to contend for a Keenan Division title and a Patriot Cup championship in 2021. “We had a good year last season and we’re excited about the opportunity to get out and play,” Head Coach Bob Kniffen said. “We definitely have a veteran team returning and we’re looking forward to seeing those guys lead the charge.
Hingham girls hockey has a chance to have another good season
HINGHAM – The Hingham girls hockey team has faced even more adversity preparing for the upcoming season than the many COVID-19 restrictions that every school must follow. Until recently, the Harborwomen were without Head Coach Thomas Findlay, who tested positive for the virus and only last week was cleared to return to the team after a 14-day quarantine.
Hingham boys hockey back in Patriot League bubble for this season
HINGHAM – In a normal season, the Hingham High boys hockey team would be playing a high-level independent league schedule. But in the year of COVID-19, the Harbormen will play 10 games against other schools in the Patriot League’s Keenan Division, with an additional two games against Fisher Division opponents, followed by the Patriot Cup tournament.
Hingham boys hockey back in Patriot League bubble for this season
HINGHAM – In a normal season, the Hingham boys hockey team would be playing a high-level independent league schedule. But in the year of COVID-19, the Harbormen will play 10 games against other schools in the Patriot League’s Keenan Division, with an additional two games against Fisher Division opponents, followed by the Patriot Cup tournament.
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