You’re listening to the Westerly Sun’s podcast, where we talk about the best local events, new job postings, obituaries, and more.

First, a bit of Rhode Island trivia. Today’s trivia is brought to you by Perennial. Perennial’s new plant-based drink “Daily Gut & Brain” is a blend of easily digestible nutrients crafted for gut and brain health. A convenient mini-meal, Daily Gut & Brain” is available now at the CVS Pharmacy in Wakefield.

Now for some trivia. Did you know that Rhode Island raised, Joe Soares, is a former all-star wheelchair rugby player for the United States and a Paralympic gold medallist, who later coached the Canadian paralympic team after he was cut by the U.S in 1996? This episode figures prominently in the award-winning 2005 documentary film Murderball.

Now for our feature story:

Visitors to Newport's ornate gilded-age mansions will need to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 before being admitted starting Monday.

According to The Preservation Society of Newport County, visitors who purchase tickets or memberships onsite will be asked to provide proof of vaccination at time of purchase, People who already have tickets, and members, must provide proof of vaccination at the entrance.

The rule applies to people age 5 and older.

Starting January 15th, the Preservation Society will also require visitors to the mansions to provide proof of a COVID-19 booster shot for all those eligible to receive it.

The same requirements — which also include face coverings indoors — will also apply to employees, including volunteers and interns.

CEO Trudy Coxe said in a statement: “We continue to monitor the latest developments regarding COVID, and we intend to be flexible and responsive to evolving conditions. Our goal, first and foremost, is to help protect the health of our visitors and our staff."

The nonprofit Preservation Society oversees 11 historic properties in the city, including The Breakers, The Elms and Rosecliff.

For more about the coronavirus pandemic, the recovery, and the latest on all things in and around Westerly, head over to westerlysun.com.

Today we’re remembering the life of Donald Balla.

Don was born in Westerly and lived most of his adult life in New York City, returning to Westerly 10 years ago. Don will be dearly missed by his partner of 47 years, George, his sister, his niece, his nephew, great-niece, his loyal friends and cousins, whom he enjoyed spending the Christmas holidays with.

If you met Don, you were not likely to forget him. Quirky and unique, Don carved out a life filled with all the things he loved. Music from one of his vintage Victor Talking Machines would often be heard at his door. His apartment was filled with records, books, films and memorabilia that he collected over a lifetime. Don had a generous spirit, a kind nature, a passion for good conversation and a love of all things antique.

The Balla and Cardounel families wish to thank Pace of Westerly for helping Don and his family navigate this last very difficult chapter in his life with compassion and dignity, and to Dr. Sarah Petrides at the Westerly Hospital along with the nurses and CNA's who treated Don with the utmost care and respect during his final days.

Don's favorite saying was "your health is your wealth". Truer words were never spoken.

Thank you for taking a moment with us today to remember and celebrate Don’s life.

That’s it for today, we’ll be back next time with more! Also, remember to check out our sponsor Perennial, Daily Gut & Brain, available at the CVS on Main St. in Wakefield!

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