In 2026, I resolve to …

Through an array of New Year’s resolutions, East Bay residents talk about their hopes and aspirations in 2026

By Vanessa Combs
Posted 1/6/26

As the calendar turns to 2026, we invited community members from across the region to reflect on what they hope to prioritize in the year ahead. Their resolutions range from personal wellness and …

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In 2026, I resolve to …

Through an array of New Year’s resolutions, East Bay residents talk about their hopes and aspirations in 2026

Posted

As the calendar turns to 2026, we invited community members from across the region to reflect on what they hope to prioritize in the year ahead. Their resolutions range from personal wellness and learning new skills to deepening faith, giving back, and continuing to serve the people around them in meaningful ways.

Many hope that small intentions will lead to lasting impact. Whether focused on personal growth, family, creativity, or community connection, each resolution offers a reminder that fresh starts often begin close to home.

 

Michaela Hutchinson

Youth Services Librarian, George Hail Free Library, Warren

“To learn some sewing skills. I would like to know how to hem pants, and patch holes properly.” 

 

Michelle Lapierre

Finance Clerk, Warren Town Hall

“My goal is to go the gym at least three days a week all year.” 

 

Jessica Capaldi

Deputy Clerk, Warren Town Hall

“I want to say the rosary every night.”

 

Haley Santos (left)

Building and Zoning Clerk, Warren Town Hall

“I have a goal of reading five books a month, specifically Freida McFadden, and Colleen Hoover.”

 

Alyssa Oswald

Planning Clerk, Warren Town Hall

“I want to work more on personal growth especially developing skills that I can use to further my career in planning and community development at the Warren Town Hall.”

 

Paul Venice

Artist, “Vinny’s Vehicles,” Warren

“Remain healthy and continue doing what I love — woodworking!”

 

Crystal Santos

Owner and Artist, Eclectic Body Art:

“My New Year’s resolution is to spread as much kindness and healing as possible.”

 

Sarah Simon

Barista, Tracy’s Cream and Sugar, Warren

“I want to start shopping smarter, and get back to supporting local businesses that make our community prosper.” 

 

Maddy Desiata

Owner, Desiata Training

“My New Year’s resolution is to continue to grow and nurture our business for our members.”

 

Sarah Bouthillier (left)

Vet Tech, Mt. Hope Animal Hospital, Portsmouth

“I want to take in more foster dogs from Save a Lab.”

 

Ciara Sawyer

Vet Tech, Mt. Hope Animal Hospital, Portsmouth

“I want to create more meaningful memories with my son and travel together.”

 

Mike MacFarlane

Owner, Sunset Cove

“Our goal for this year is to make our charitable contribution bigger to Dana Farber Cancer Institute through seasonal fundraisers and adding a second Jimmy Buffet Anniversary Show to our lineup on July 1 and 2.”

 

Jeremy Muncy

Shop Owner/Master Barber, Muncy’s Barbershop

"My 2026 New Year’s resolution is to keep the community looking good, feeling great and providing them with a one of a kind experience!”

 

Kittlynn Medeiros

Barista, Bajah’s Cat Cafe, Tiverton

“This year, I want to go to college and study Psychology.” 

 

Luz Vasquez (left)

Barista, Dunkin Donuts, Tiverton

“I am excited for new beginnings and warmer weather, as I am moving to the south in June.”

 

Millyana Carrasquillo

Barista, Dunkin Donuts, Tiverton

“I am excited for a new path in life, starting my journey in CNA work and looking forward to the growth that is to come.”

 

Meredith Richards

Adult Services Librarian, George Hail Library, Warren

“I want to read more non-fiction books.” 

 

David Lopes

Owner, Little Rhody Pasta

“After a challenging year as a business owner, my resolution for 2026 is to stay 100% positive and see where that mindset takes me.”



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Meet our staff
Jim McGaw

A lifelong Portsmouth resident, Jim graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1982 and earned a journalism degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1986. He's worked two different stints at East Bay Newspapers, for a total of 18 years with the company so far. When not running all over town bringing you the news from Portsmouth, Jim listens to lots and lots and lots of music, watches obscure silent films from the '20s and usually has three books going at once. He also loves to cook crazy New Orleans dishes for his wife of 25 years, Michelle, and their two sons, Jake and Max.