Good morning, Newport.

David Rossi, the adoptive father of Nicholas Alahverdian, said he always believed his son was alive after false reports of his 2020 death and Utah officials confirmed he died Thursday night from complications of a preexisting condition.

Newport offers Gilded Age-inspired tours and dining experiences at historic mansions such as The Elms and The Breakers, with servant life tours and themed lunch available daily through September — visitors can explore local history and architecture at preserved sites.

RENEWport invites Newport youth to share art, essays, poetry or videos reflecting on America’s 250th anniversary through its Semiquincentennial 250 Archival Project & submissions are open until June 30.

Collaborations with historical and school partners will preserve these voices in a digital archive for Newport’s future.

Charter Books will host bestselling author Jenny Jackson at OceanCliff on Monday, July 13 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. to discuss her latest novel The Shampoo Effect with Newport Ladies Book Club founder Kylie McCollough; tickets cost $90 and include a signed copy, a complimentary drink, and hors d’oeuvres.

Abigail Brooks of Little Compton was presented the Peter Merritt Award for Land Conservation by the Rhode Island Land Trust Council at Tower Hill Brewing Co. on June 22 (recognizing over 20 years of volunteer work preserving local land and character).

Social Security checks in July are set with regular benefits on July 8, 15 and 22 and SSI payments on July 1 and July 31; the SSA will fully switch to electronic payments by year-end.

Newport recipients can visit the local office (130 Bellevue Ave) if they need assistance.

The Rhode Island Department of Health has recommended that the swimming area at Mackerel Cove in Jamestown reopen after bacteria counts returned to safe levels, following its recent closure along with other local beaches; state officials will monitor water quality through Labor Day and update statuses as needed.

A Real Housewives inspired summer bucket list offers locals rail bike tours on Rail Explorers (at 1 Alexander Road in Portsmouth), walks along the historic Cliff Walk, mansion tours, vineyard tastings in Middletown and schooner sunset cruises, while Saturday polo matches add lively tailgating, providing ways to enjoy the season.

Newport County open houses are scheduled for this weekend (June 27-28), offering buyers a chance to tour a variety of properties in towns like Newport and Middletown.

The events provide opportunities to see homes in person at set times before the quieter Fourth of July period.

Morning Tours of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse

9:00 – 11:30 AM — Edgewood Yacht Club — Ticketed entry — Explore the historical Pomham Rocks Lighthouse during select summer mornings.

Fireworks Sail on Schooner Aurora

8-10 p.m. — Schooner Aurora — $105 per person — Experience a spectacular fireworks show while sailing on the historic Schooner Aurora in celebration of America's 250th anniversary.

Newport Library Chess Club

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Newport Public Library — Free entry — A friendly chess gathering for all skill levels every 1st and 3rd Tuesday.

Newport Classical Music Festival: Sandbox Percussion & Kristin Lee

8-10 p.m. — The Breakers — Cost not listed — Experience a breathtaking performance by Sandbox Percussion alongside violinist Kristin Lee at a historic venue.

The Jeweled Collective: Jewelry Pop-Up

2-5 p.m. — Newport Harbor Island Resort — Free entry — Explore fine vintage, antique, and contemporary jewelry from various talented artisans.

Newport Kite Festival

12-6 p.m. — Brenton Point State Park — Free entry — Experience the joy of colorful kites soaring high at Rhode Island's beloved annual festival.

The Lafayette Band Concert

5-7 p.m. — Touro Park — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful evening of historic music in the beautiful setting of Touro Park.

Willie J Laws Jr and The Ocean Mistics Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Ocean Mist — Cost not specified — Experience a night of modern funky blues with deep Texas roots music.

The Earl Knightwood Band at The Towers

7-10 p.m. — The Towers — $20 Tickets available at the door — Experience the rhythmic fusion of R&B, Funk, and Soul with The Earl Knightwood Band.

Pomham Rocks Lighthouse Morning Tours

9-11:30 a.m. — Edgewood Yacht Club — Ticket required — Explore a beautifully restored historical lighthouse and its scenic surroundings.