Over 60 years ago, boredom at a family backyard gathering on Bainbridge Island in Washington State led Congressman Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—and their families—to invent a new game. Using an old badminton court, they improvised with table tennis paddles, a plastic wiffle ball, and a lowered badminton net. From these modest beginnings, pickleball was born, with rules blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Today, the sport is played by two or four players on indoor or outdoor courts. Competitors use smooth-faced paddles to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inch-high net until one side fails to return the ball or commits a rule infraction.
According to Pickleheads, a digital hub for pickleball players, there are over 21,985 pickleball courts in 8,970 cities across the United States. In Rhode Island, there are 61 pickleball locations with a total of 246 courts. Of these, 40 locations—with 166 courts—are public and free to use. Rhode Island ranks 58th in the nation for the number of pickleball courts.
The Sports and Fitness Industry Association reports that , from 2021 to 2024, pickleball became the fastest-growing sport in the nation. Two years ago, CBS Sports reported that 36.5 million people nationwide had played pickleball at least once.
On August 8, designated National Pickleball Day—just before the launch of AARP’s national Pickleball Clinic Tour—the Washington, D.C.-based aging organization released a study exploring older adults’ awareness and participation in the sport. A free Clinic Tour event will take place at Pickleball Citi in Cranston on Wednesday, August 27.
The survey found that nine in ten (91%) adults age 50+ have at least heard of pickleball, and more than half (55%) are either familiar with it or have played at least once. About one in ten (13%) report they have played the game.
According to the survey, when asked which activities have gained the most popularity among people their age in the past two years, 40% of adults 50+ selected pickleball—more than double the second most popular choice, walking/jogging (18%). A third (33%) of older adults familiar with pickleball expressed interest in learning more from experienced players.
A Sport for Families, Friends, and Generations
One of the sport’s biggest attractions is its ability to bring families and generations together. Among 50+ adults familiar with the sport, 81% said pickleball is a game people of all ages can enjoy together. More than half (52%) cited spending time with family and friends as a key benefit. Of those who play, 56% reported playing with family members and 48% with friends.
Pickleball also helps older adults expand their social networks. The AARP study revealed that 71% of 50+ adults familiar with pickleball view it as a great way to meet new people. In fact, 20% of those who play said they have played with individuals they first met at the court.
Beyond fun and socialization, pickleball provides meaningful health benefits. Nearly eight in ten (78%) older adults familiar with the sport say it is a great way to stay physically fit, and nearly nine in ten (87%) consider exercise a major advantage of playing. Two-thirds (67%) also say the sport helps them stay mentally sharp.
Stress relief is another benefit, cited by 46% of respondents. And for many, the simple joy of play matters most: three in four (75%) said pickleball is fun.
“We know that pickleball is particularly popular among our Rhode Island members and the state’s 50 and older population,” said AARP Rhode Island Associate State Director for Community Outreach Darlene Reza Rossi. “It checks so many boxes on the list of activities that can allow people to live healthier lives as they age. Aside from the obvious physical benefits, learning a new skill is an essential element of brain health. And the social part the game provides is another brain-health benefit.
“So, AARP Rhode Island all in when it comes to introducing more Rhode Islanders to pickleball because it aligns with our mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age and our healthy living series, that includes free, online RI Healthy Cooking, Tai Chi/Qigong, Everybody Dance! And Laughter Yoga.”
AARP Pickleball Clinic Coming to Rhode Island
On August 8, AARP launched its 2024 Pickleball Clinic Tour to 20 cities nationwide to promote active aging and multigenerational play.
For Rhode Islanders, AARP will host a free Pickleball Clinic at Pickleball Citi in Cranston on Wednesday, August 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. Participants must sign a General Liability Waiver.
The event will feature an Intro to Pickleball clinic and open play, led by licensed instructors in an inclusive, welcoming environment. Open play will follow a drop-in format, allowing players of all levels to practice in a real game setting. Instructors will help match players by skill level, ensuring both beginners and experienced players can enjoy the sport, meet new people, and stay active.
Registration is free and limited to the first 100 people. To register, visit: www.aarp.org/RIEvents..
In addition to learning the game, participants will also discover AARP’s “Six Pillars for Better Brain Health” and explore opportunities to connect with AARP Rhode Island programs in their community.
So grab a paddle, bring your family or friends, and join the fun—pickleball might just become your new favorite way to stay active, healthy, and socially connected.
Maybe the second time will be the charm. After the Rhode Island General Assembly failed to address the issue of preventing criminals from using cryptocurrency (Crypto) ATMs to steal from older Rhode Islanders, AARP Rhode Island is renewing its effort to regulate the state’s 120 crypto kiosks and safeguard older residents.
More than 45,000 crypto kiosks, which resemble bank ATMs, allow users to conduct legitimate cryptocurrency transactions, such as sending money to digital wallets. However, unlike banks and other financial services, these kiosks in Rhode Island are not regulated and lack critical fraud protections.
In 2023, the FBI received over 5,500 complaints involving crypto kiosks, with older adults disproportionately affected by scams. In Rhode Island alone, victims lost $10 million to cryptocurrency scams. The Rhode Island State Police also reported a rise in cryptocurrency ATM scams, with 40 cases reported in 2024 and already 21 cases in early 2025.
With fraud spreading through supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations, the Washington, D.C. based AARP is working with 17 of its state affiliates, including Rhode Island, to draft and pass bills incorporating daily transaction limits, state operator licensing requirements, scam warnings, and refund options for fraud victims.
Fighting Fraud and Exploitation
Introduced on Jan. 22, 2025, HB 5121, introduced by Rep. Julie Casimiro (D-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter), aims to license cryptocurrency kiosk operators and mandate the posting of fraud warnings. It also requires Kiosks to display terms and conditions before transactions, including any fees charged and exchange rates. Additionally, it would set fee caps at either $5 or 3% per transaction, and mandate paper receipts containing relevant transactional information. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Innovation & Technology.
The bill would also require crypto operators to refund transactions and ATM fees in cases of fraud, and impose daily transaction limits to mitigate high-risk transactions.
On Feb. 11, 2025, the House Committee on Innovation & Technology held its hearing to discuss HB 5121. Supporters and critics testified on its merit.
Written Testimony Highlights
Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island’s State Director, urged lawmakers to pass HB 5121, citing the growing issue of crypto fraud. She referenced Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data showing that, in 2022, the actual amount stolen through fraud was likely closer to $137.4 billion – far exceeding the report $9 billion.
Matthew Netto, AARP Associate State Director, also submitted written testimony, citing a 2023 case where the founders of the Bitcoin of America ATM network were arrested for money laundering and conspiracy (in Ohio), with a focus on defrauding elderly victims. He emphasized that while cryptocurrency is a legitimate form of currency, gaining in popularity, it has become an increasingly attractive tool for criminals. He called on lawmakers to protect older Rhode Islanders, stating that the point of transfer is the best place to deter crime.
Attorney General Peter F. Neronha echoed these concerns, noting the difficulties of navigating the volatile crypto market. Rhode Island’s top law enforcement officer urged lawmakers to adopt regulations for the operation of crypto kiosks and requiring disclosure of all material risks prior to virtual currency transactions.
Larry Lipka, General Counsel for Coinflip, a global digital currency platform company, expressed cautious support for HB 5121, stating his company supports most provision, some elements – such as the fee cap and physical receipt requirement – could inadvertently encourage less transparency and compliance efforts that help protect consumers. He also raised concern about the bill’s transaction limits, which could undermine anti-money laundering efforts.
Ethan McClelland, Bitcoin Depot’s Director of Government Relations also expressed support for the bill but warned that certain provisions, particularly daily transaction limits and the fee cap, would make it difficult for operators to continue operating in Rhode Island. The company is the largest operator of cryptocurrency kiosks in the United States.
Sen. Victoria Gu (D-Dist. 38, Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingston), introduced, SB 16, the Senate companion measure. After a March 18, 2025 hearing before the Senate Commerce Commit the legislative proposal was held for further study.
The Art of Compromise Following concerns raised during the hearings, the House committee recommended further study of HB 5121. Subsequently, AARP Rhode Island met with Rep. Julie Casimiro, the sponsor of HB 5121, and crypto industry representatives, leading to compromises that satisfied both regulatory advocates and the crypto ATM industry.
As a result of this compromise, the revised version of HB 5121 was passed on March 27, 2025, by a vote of 10-0. HB 5121 Sub. A sets daily transaction limits of $2,000 for new customers and $5,000 for existing customers, aligning with regulations in Connecticut. The fee cap provisions were removed, and physical receipt requirements will take effect in Nov. 2025, while other provisions become law upon passage.
The initial bill required operators to provide full refunds to new customers. In the revised version, new customers must request a full refund within 30 days if they claim fraudulent inducement.
Looking Ahead
The House is expected to vote on HB 5121 Substitute A on Thursday, April 10, 2025. If it passes the Senate must act. With three months left in the 2025 legislative session, an amended version of SB has yet to be introduced. However, there is ample time for the Senate to amend SB 16 to align with the House version. Once both chambers pass identical bills, they must be signed by Governor Dan McKee to become law.
If the crypto regulation bill does not pass the Rhode Island General Assembly this year, lawmakers may try again next year. Will the third time be the charm?
Attorney General Peter Neronha, General Treasurer James Diossa, Senior Agenda Coalition of RI, Westerly Police Department, the Village Common of Rhode Island, Rhode Island Coalition of Elder Justice, Rhode Island State Police and dozens of older Rhode Islanders join the AARP in supporting HB 5121 Sub. A and SB 16.
The substantial body of work compiled by Herb Weiss—a 72-page list detailing 1,111 articles on aging, plus three books published over 45 years—now has a permanent home at Rhode Island College’s (RIC) Special Collections, housed in the James P. Adams Library. The archive, titled the Herbert P. Weiss Papers, 1980 to 2025, is a significant addition to RIC’s archives.
This newly established collection spans Weiss’s career as a writer, editor, and journalist, documenting his contributions to the field of aging, senior life, healthcare, and public policy. The collection includes a range of publications that
Weiss contributed to as a writer, editor, or editorial board member. These publications—magazines, newspapers, newsletters, and trade journals—cover topics such as aging, senior life, healthcare, and federal and state policy issues.
In addition to his articles, the collection features various degrees, certificates, and awards Weiss has earned throughout his education and career.
Weiss’s journalistic career began long before he was a staff writer intern (a three-month position) for the Providence Journal. He has since written columns and digital news commentaries on aging for outlets such as the Pawtucket Times, Woonsocket Call, Senior Digest, Senior Living (now Prime Time), and RINewsToday. Weiss holds a Master of Arts in Studies in Aging and a Specialist Certificate in Aging from North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas). He also spent years covering health and long-term care policy as an accredited House Gallery Reporter in Washington, D.C., for various publications.
Weiss has contributed his expertise to the editorial boards of McKnight’s LTC News and The Brown University LTC Quality Letter. His “Age Beat” column, which has been a staple for local readers in Rhode Island, reflects his dedication to covering generational issues with depth and insight. Weiss has published three volumes of his column compilations: Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly (2016), Taking Charge: Vol. 2 – More Stories on Aging Boldly (2021), and his recently released third volume, Taking Charge: Vol. 3 – Even More Stories on Aging Boldly.
Service to the Community and Advocacy
In addition to his journalistic work, Weiss has served as Pawtucket’s arts and cultural “ambassador” and as the deputy director of the Leon Mathieu Senior Center. He has been appointed to the Rhode Island Advisory Commission on Aging by five different governors and, in 2021, was tapped by Rhode Island Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio to serve on the Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Disease Research and Treatment.
Weiss’s impact extends beyond his writing: one local restaurant even named a lobster salad (delicious) and a hamburger (dangerous) in his honor. Recently, a small café also named a decadent breakfast sandwich after him, called “The Herb Weiss Breakfast Sandwich.”
Weiss hopes that the archive will provide researchers, students, and journalists with valuable historical context on aging policy and community issues from the past four decades. His work, particularly in understanding aging-related public policy, will be a helpful resource for professionals in aging services, healthcare, social work, and gerontology.
The Value of the Collection at RIC
Housed in RIC’s Special Collections, the Weiss archive is poised to benefit generations of students, researchers, and professionals. The collection not only preserves the history of aging policy in Rhode Island and in Congress but also serves as a vital resource for anyone involved in or studying aging-related topics.
The value of this collection lies not only in the breadth of its coverage but also in its unique perspective—Weiss has chronicled aging issues from a journalistic standpoint, grounded in personal experience. His columns explore complex issues like healthcare, caregiving, and retirement, offering readers practical advice as well as a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by older adults.
The Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection offers insights into the evolution of aging policies and practices, highlighting both local Rhode Island issues and broader national trends, especially pulling the findings from AARP reports, studies and polls For students and professionals in fields such as nursing, healthcare administration, gerontology, and social work, the collection provides a solid foundation of knowledge. It will also inform the work of aging professionals, enabling them to better advocate for older adults and their families.
What They’re Saying About the Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection at Rhode Island College
Numerous aging network professionals, providers and elected officials have praised the significance of the Herbert P. Weiss Papers at RIC. Some have recognized Weiss for his tireless work on aging issues, others have lauded the collection’s contribution to expanding access to vital research on aging. One even commented on the collection’s role in tackling pressing issues such as Medicare reform and family caregiving. Others noted that this collection would become an invaluable resource for students, faculty, and policymakers alike.
Let us take a look at their comments…
“I am so pleased to have the opportunity to praise the action of Rhode Island College in establishing the collection of the works of Herb Weiss’s reports on aging in Rhode Island over the years. The reports have recognized the evolution of the enormous challenges faced by our large aging population and inspired the people who worked tirelessly to address them.
I met Herb when he worked for the Pawtucket Times and the City of Pawtucket. Back then, we both served as members of the Governor’s Commission on Aging. The committee members were younger then and were mostly leaders in agencies, service providers and dedicated professionals. I came to recognize the young reporter (Herb) and his deep commitment to solving the daunting challenges we faced.
Herb has never let up on his efforts and his writings are full of insights and useful information presented in multiple articles and reports which are all factual and frequently memorable. He has gained readers among leaders, researchers and others of all ages. His writings are a great resource for the public, and the state’s Office of Elderly Affairs.
Herb is a true champion for all as we age.” Kathleen Connell, Past Secretary of State of Rhode Island, Past Director of AARP Rhode Island
“Herb Weiss’s collection at Rhode Island College is a treasure trove of invaluable insights that have not only shaped the conversation on aging, but also influenced key policies at both the state and national levels. His tireless dedication to addressing the challenges of an aging population is reflected in his extensive body of work. The establishment of the Herbert P. Weiss Papers at RIC will serve as a lasting resource for future generations of students, researchers, and policymakers, ensuring that Herb’s contributions to aging policy remain accessible for years to come. It is an honor to have his remarkable legacy preserved in such a meaningful way.”
Robin Covington, Coalition Director – Rhode Island Coalition for Elder Justice
“What an honor to hold the Herb Weiss collections at Rhode Island College and so well deserved! I especially enjoy Taking Charge: Stories on Aging Boldly where Herb Weiss offers practical tools to live a happy, fulfilled life and interviews experts and everyday people who share their keen observations about growing older.”
Patricia Raskin, Broadcaster “Positive Living and Aging”PBS and Cumulus Afffiliates and Southcoast Health Podcasts
“Herb is a respected leader and trusted authority in the aging field, as evidenced by his appointments by the last five governors to provide crucial guidance to the Advisory Commission on Aging. We are excited that his remarkable collection will be showcased at Rhode Island College’s James P. Adam’s Library, increasing visibility of his work and expanding access to his writings, which have made a significant contribution over the past 45 years in support of the nation’s aging population.”
Meghan Grady, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of RI, Inc. and Chair of the Advisory Commission on Aging.
”It’s fantastic to have the collective works of Herb Weiss’s many insightful insights on aging organized in one place for all to benefit from his years of experience in aging.”
Sarah Lenz Lock, SVP Policy & Brain Health, AARP
“Herb Weiss has an incredible dedication to shining a light on so many issues involving aging. This collection will be an invaluable resource in further understanding the myriad of important topics that he has addressed in his decades of insightful writing.”
Larry Berman, Director of Communications, Rhode Island House of Representatives
A wealth of Herb Weiss’ keen observations and insights with respect to all things healthy aging, is now housed at Rhode Island College, to the benefit of students, researchers, and professionals in aging work. This treasure trove will be a tremendous asset to those seeking context or to understand the broad range of issues facing older Rhode Islanders and their caregivers. The Weiss collection will also inform the work of countless aging work professionals and provide a solid foundation for students pursuing their education in nursing, gerontology, healthcare administration, as well as social work.
James B. Connell, Age-Friendly RI
“Herb Weiss’s reporting on aging has helped shape our state’s long-term care services. As Lieutenant Governor, I have often relied on his writing to both stay informed on the issues of the day and to learn about the history of aging policy in Rhode Island which he has covered over his long career. The Herbert P. Weiss Collection at RIC James P. Adams Library will ensure that generations to come are able to access his reporting, and I am glad to see the importance of his work recognized in this way.”
RI Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos
“Herb Weiss has long been a guiding voice in the conversation around aging, capturing both the personal journey and the broader policy landscape with clarity and depth. His work distills complex research into accessible articles that educate the public, influence policymakers, and support older adults, their families, and caregivers. His collection of articles, now housed in the “Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection at Rhode Island College’s (RIC) James P. Adams Library, tackle pressing issues such as Social Security and Medicare reform, affordable housing, and the challenges of family caregiving. His tenacity and commitment to truth make his articles an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand aging in America today. More than just a policy discussion, the collection is a roadmap for navigating the later years of life with knowledge and confidence.
Whether you’re an advocate, a professional in elder care, or simply planning for your own future, RIC’s archives of his work offers essential insights into the evolving landscape of aging—one well-researched story at a time.”
John E. Gage, MBA, NHA, President & CEO, Rhode Island Health Care Association
“Herb Weiss has dedicated his career to illuminating the complexities of aging and retirement, providing invaluable insight and advocacy for older adults. Through his thoughtful journalism and deep expertise, he has shaped public understanding and influenced policy discussions, ensuring that aging issues remain at the forefront. His work has had a profound impact, empowering individuals and communities with the knowledge needed to navigate later life with dignity and confidence. It has been an honor and privilege to have now published three volumes of his collected works.” Steven R. Porter, Publisher, Stillwater River Publications, West Warwick, RI
“Herb Weiss’s 3 book compendium is a one of a kind collection, illustrating the complex social, economic, and political dynamics that surround and influence elder care in our country. This is a vital resource for all professionals who have anything to do with elders and their families. Herb’s sensitivity to these matters emerges from his various roles as a professional himself – a noted author, a devotee to culture and art, a background as a former Nursing Facility Administrator and an opinion writer on all legislative issues related to elders at local and national levels. This recognition of him at Rhode Island College brings honor indeed to the institution.”
Teresa Chopoorian, EdD, MSN, FNAP, Vice President and Administrator , Mansion Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; Fellow, National Academy of Practice , Nursing
“Herb Weiss has worked tirelessly over many years to keep Rhode Island’s aging population informed about the issues that matter most and highlight policy areas and proposals that otherwise might not receive wider attention. Congratulations to Herb and Rhode Island College for creating this valuable resource.”
Dominick J. Ruggerio, President of the Senate
“Herb Weiss has helped countless people better understand aging, caregiving, and the politics of long term care through his clear and accessible writing. His books and articles have educated and inspired readers across Rhode Island and beyond. As a RI College alum, it is great to know that the Herbert Weiss Papers collection will be available at Adams Library for the students, professionals, and the community for years to come!”
Deb Burton, Ms., Executive Director & Gerontologist, RI Elder Info.
“Herb Weiss for many years has been a tireless, committed researcher and writer regarding the issues that face our increasingly older population. I always read his work with interest and believe his writings will be a valuable resource for students, faculty, politicians, and others who earnestly seek to address the needs of those of us who are elders in the community.”
Dr. Nancy Carriuolo, Rhode Island College president 2008-2016
“As a journalist Herb has always adhered to the most critical qualities of objectivity, integrity and just plain good understandable writing, coupled with his keen sense for a story that needs to be told,” states Bill Benson, former Acting Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Administration on Aging who leadership position in the US Senate and House of Representatives. Rhode Island College is to be commended for providing a permanent home for Herb’s collection, says Benson. “These are worrisome times with journalism under assault.” Hopefully those reviewing the Herbert P. Weiss collection in the future who care about aging in America will find inspiration and a model for quality writing on these important matters, he said.
Bill Benson, Former Acting Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Administration on Aging who spent 8 years working in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives
“We appreciate Herb Weiss’s donation and believe that it will be beneficial to RIC students and the broader Rhode Island community interested in the topics of healthcare, policy, and aging.Thank you!”
Veronica L. Denison, Assistant Professor, Digital Archivist and Special Collections Librarian, James P. Adams Library, Rhode Island College
“Herb has chronicled over 45 years of aging in America and locally. No one individual has been so attentive and dedicated to older adult reporting on emerging healthcare concerns, social security and financial matters, caregiving, socialization, volunteering, nutrition, etc. This collection provides enormous historical access for social & healthcare workers, geriatric case managers, policy makers, and elected officials. Readers should want to immerse themselves in these insightful and instructive stories. Well done, Herb!”
Vincent Marzullo, former Federal Director/Corp. for National & Community Service (RI); past volunteer President, AARP RI; Board member/Senior Agenda Coalition of RI.
“We are thrilled and honored to hold the Herb Weiss collections at Rhode Island College. No one has made more contributions to the field of aging and long term care through their journalism and writing than Herb. Herb has studied and tracked policies, issues, trends, legislation, and best practices in long term care for years and provided invaluable research, commentary, analysis, and a historical perspective. Most important, he has engaged with the community, policy makers, providers, and older adults themselves and has fully immersed himself in the field.
Having his collection at Rhode Island College will provide an invaluable asset and resource to faculty, students, researchers and those shaping policies on services and supports to older adults. As the population is rapidly growing older, his work has become increasingly more relevant and important today and in the future.”
Marianne Raimondo, MS, MSW, LICSW, Ph.D., Dean, School of Business, Rhode Island College
“Until now, Herb Weiss has been a virtual walking archive of information about retirement issues and policy debates about aging in America. Now, thanks to RIC’s Adams Library, anyone, including Weiss, will literally be able to walk in (or dip in online) and access one of the rarest continuous files of media coverage on this vital topic over most of the past half century. Uniquely researched and written from the perspective of a single journalist and public policy professional, the Herbert P. Weiss Papers should stand as an historical treasury for researchers and students in the years to come.”
Paul Kleyman, Cofounder, Journalists Network on Generations/Editor, GBONewss.org.
“It is an honor to be asked for a quote on Herb Weiss’ work for your archiving his writings. As the former Chief of Staff of the House Aging Committee and since then a spokesman at the White House and after, I’ve had the privilege of working with Herb Weiss for decades. Herb Weiss is the best and most knowledgeable aging issues writer in the country. He has informed not only Rhode Island but the Nation on problems and solutions for the elderly. His work will finally be archived and protected as the national treasure that it is. His historical record is invaluable and an incomparable resource for researchers, writers, and students.”
Robert S. Weiner, Former Chief of Staff, U.S. House Aging Committee under Chairman Claude Pepper, spokesman in the Clinton and Bush White Houses, and spokesman/senior staff for Cong. Claude Pepper, Charles Rangel, John Conyers, Ed Koch, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Four-Star Gen./Drug Czar Barry McCaffrey – Winner, National Press Club President’s Award for recruiting young journalists as co-bylined oped writers (1000+ articles to date (www.weinerpublic.com/opeds). __
“Herb Weiss has set the highest standard for writing on important aging policy issues. He does more than write. He provokes people to take action. He is the best journalist advocate I know.” Bob Blancato, Executive Director, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, DC
“Herb Weiss is an indispensable conduit for real-time news that gives us what is increasingly disappearing: honesty, transparency, fact-based And an amalgam of big-picture and personal stories about aging and the human condition—a real treasure!”
Fernando Torres-Gil, M.S.W., Ph.D., Director, UCLA Center for Policy Research on Aging; Professor, Social Welfare and Public Policy, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs
“Herb’s contributions have been a guiding light in the field of aging, illuminating critical issues with compassion, clarity, and a relentless pursuit of the truth. This collection is a well-deserved tribute to his decades of impactful journalism and advocacy.” John O’Connor, Editorial Director, McKnight’s
“For over 45 years Herb Weiss’s reporting has kept us informed about important issues touching the lives of our older population – from critical national and local policy proposals to tips for aging boldly. This collection honors his many years of journalistic excellence in reporting on aging.” Maureen Maigret, Policy Advisor, Senior Agenda Coalition of RI
“The City of Pawtucket is proud to recognize the establishment of the Herbert P. Weiss Papers collection at RIC’s James P. Adams Library, preserving his invaluable contributions to the fields of aging, health care, and medical issues. Herb’s work has profoundly impacted our community, and this collection ensures that his legacy will continue to inform and inspire future generations.” Mayor Donald Grebien, Mayor of Pawtucket, RI
“Herb Weiss tackles important seniors’ topics from a Rhode Island perspective, at once localizing and nationalizing them. Our organization has been happy to help share Herb’s work with a national audience over these past decades. His columns go beyond routine reporting on Social Security, Medicare, Aging, and a host of other issues we care about. Herb brings nuance, balance, and detail where it can otherwise be lacking in other media. This new collection of his works will be a valuable resource to everyone in our field.”
Max Richtman, President and CEO, National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare
“Herb Weiss has been an articulate and passionate writer on so many issues related to aging and older adults in Rhode Island. His writings trace the enduring achievements and challenges of growing older, and this collection is a testament to his myriad contributions to enriching our perspectives on older adults.”
Phillip G. Clark, ScD, Professor and Director, Program in Gerontology University of Rhode Island
From Herb Weiss: A Personal Reflection
As Weiss reflects on his decades of work, he acknowledges the unique role his writing has played in shaping public discourse on aging. Through his columns, he strives to offer practical advice and provoke action on aging issues, all while highlighting the personal and emotional aspects of growing older. His hope is that this archive will inspire and inform future generations, just as his columns have done for decades.
In conclusion, The Herbert P. Weiss Papers is a treasure trove of information that not only showcases a significant body of work in aging journalism but also offers a lasting resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of aging, caregiving, and public policy. The archive’s permanent home at RIC’s James P. Adams Library ensures that Weiss’s contributions will continue to inspire and educate students, researchers, and professionals long into the future. By preserving his comprehensive documentation of the aging landscape, RIC will allow future generations to benefit from his detailed insights and policy analysis. For anyone involved in aging-related work—whether in research, policy, or direct services—the collection will serve as a valuable touchstone for understanding the evolution of aging issues over the past four and a half decades.
This collection is an invaluable asset to the community, providing essential insights and supporting the work of those involved in aging services.
Publisher’s Note: Herb Weiss’s column on aging issues is featured every Monday in RINewsToday. We are thrilled to have Herb’s expertise with us, almost from the very beginning of our publication, 10 years ago. As we come to understand issues around aging in one of the state’s with the oldest populations, institutional history helps us know where we’ve been, what has been tried, what’s worked, what hasn’t – something all too often missing in today’s dynamic of politics and public policy.
We are grateful for Herb’s contributions to RINewsToday’s readers – and Congratulations to Herb on his collection being established at Rhode Island College! – Nancy Thomas, founder and publisher, RINewsToday.
Herb Weiss 