Good morning, Newport.

RENEWport will host internationally-renowned political scientist Robert D.

Putnam today at 5:00 p.m. at Salve Regina University to give his keynote address 'What is the State of American Democracy Today?' — additional community events including meetings with local students and arts sessions are scheduled leading up to his visit.

Newport Folk Festival—set for July 25 to 27—announced that Big Freedia, Geese, S.G.

Goodman, and Lucius will perform in Newport. General admission tickets have sold out and more performer names will be revealed soon.

The League of Women Voters Newport County is launching its Observer Corps to watch public meetings by city and town councils and school committees across the County.

Members from Tiverton, Little Compton, Newport, Portsmouth, Middletown, and Jamestown will serve as observers to help keep government meetings open and accountable.

Sen. Ujifusa and Rep. Tanzi introduced two bills to help people with mental health and substance abuse issues get fair insurance coverage.

The bills would force insurers to use standard care rules and stop preapproval for in-network care—similar to a policy already in place with BCBSRI.

Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank closed on a $3.8 million Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loan to the Prudence Island Water District to install a new chlorination system that will restore safe drinking water for 328 residents under a boil water advisory since 2018—installation is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

US Sailing today named Bristol native Charlie Enright as its new chief executive officer.

Enright is a skilled sailor who won The Ocean Race with the 11th Hour Racing Team—he will work with the board to expand programs and promote sustainable practices in the sport.

Dancing Daffodils: The RI Daffodil Society Show

11 a.m. — Blithewold Manor, Gardens & Arboretum — Free entry — Discover a stunning variety of daffodils showcased by local enthusiasts.

Paint & Plant

4-5 p.m. — Newport Reading Room — Registration required — Children ages 5-12 can paint a pot and plant their favorite herb.

Ben-Hur - Silent Film with Live Music

4:30 PM — The JPT Film & Event Center — Tickets available through TickPick — Experience a classic silent film with a live musical score.

Easter Sunday Grand Buffet

11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Harbor Lights Dining Events Golf Marina — $60 Adults, $25 Children — Celebrate Easter with a lavish buffet featuring chef’s specialties and stunning bay views.

Secret Mall Live Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The JPT Film & Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant live performance of Secret Mall in Newport.

Canard Vineyard Wine Dinner at 22 Bowen's

5:30-9 p.m. — 22 Bowen's Wine Bar & Grille — $160 plus tax and gratuity — Savor a four-course dinner with exquisite wine pairings from Canard Vineyard.

Kalliope Reed Quintet Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Bristol Art Museum — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a blend of historical and contemporary music by the Boston based Kalliope Reed Quintet.

Elvis Tribute Night with Dan Fontaine

7-9:30 p.m. — Courthouse Center for the Arts — Ticket required — Sing along to timeless Elvis classics in an evening of nostalgia and rock ‘n’ roll.

Newport's Irish Musicians Exhibit

12 noon - 4 p.m. — The Museum of Newport Irish History — Free entry — Explore the rich musical heritage of Newport's Irish community in this engaging mobile exhibit.

Return of the Dinosaurs

8-9 a.m. — Roger Williams Park Zoo — Special sensory-friendly event — Experience the wonders of dinosaurs before the regular public opening.