Best Of July: Rhode Island's Most-Read Patch Stories

It's been a busy month in Rhode Island. Summer is in full swing, bringing with it beautiful beach days and periods of extreme heat. Several days of heavy rain last week led to a flurry of beach closures and reopenings, with as many as 10 beaches closed on a single day and closure statuses changing by the hour.

As with any month, there was good news and bad news in every corner of the state. Here's a selection of 10 of the most-read stories across Rhode Island from this month.

A Century Well-Lived: Remembering Eleanor Spears Dove

The Narragansett tribe's matriarch did more in her 100 years of life than most could fit into several lifetimes.

Rhode Island Named Most Peaceful State In US

Lousiana came in last, named the most violent state by USA Today.

50 Rhode Island Clergy Accused Of Sexually Abusing Children

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence released a list of 50 priests "credibly accused" of sex abuse. Nineteen are living; 31 are dead.

This Massive, $37M Newport Estate Was Once Owned By An Astor

The sprawling 45-acre listing includes an infinity pool, guesthouse and room enough for a 1,000-person sit-down dinner.

Maximum Security Inmate Fight Prompts Lockdown At Cranston ACI

A spokesperson for the ACI said one inmate in the maximum-security facility was injured in a stabbing.

Rhode Islanders Brace For Winter National Grid Rate Hike

The company said this year's winter rate increase is less than the past few years.

It Was Easy Being Green: Kermit Rocks Newport Folk Festival

Everyone's favorite Muppet sang "The Rainbow Connection" and other classics to help close out the weekend-long festival.

RIDOT Announces Lane Shift Schedule For I-95 Bridge Work

Throughout the summer, lanes will be closed on an alternating schedule to allow for bridge work.

Cranston Boy's 'Man Cave' Dreams Come True

Five months after a very special surprise announcement, Travis' "imPossible" man cave dream came true.

Rhode Islanders Entitled To Share Of $425M Equifax Settlement

Equifax has promised to strengthen consumer security and services following the massive data breach.