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Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

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Good morning, Hartford. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of March.

ECONOMY NEWS

  • Sugar makers say the maple season is off to a strong start this March, with Bill Proulx of River’s Edge Sugar House reporting 2% sap sugar compared to 1% last year — a boost that local experts see as positive. Makers will join Hebron’s maple fest this weekend.  NBC Connecticut

EDUCATION NEWS

  • The General Assembly’s Education Committee advanced Gov. Lamont’s proposal to ban mobile phones in schools Monday afternoon, even as teachers say phones distract students — some lawmakers call for local control over the decision. The proposal’s future remains uncertain.  News 12 Connecticut
  • The University of Hartford added two new X-ray labs with state-of-the-art equipment on March 16 to boost hands-on training for radiologic technology students—improving engagement and readiness for clinical practice.  University of Hartford

ENVIRONMENT NEWS

  • A flood watch remains in effect across Connecticut as warmer temperatures, melting snow, and more rain raise concerns. A local park has closed for safety, and officials advise residents to stay alert as conditions continue today.  WFSB-TV
  • Revolution Wind, an offshore wind project off the RI coast developed by Ørsted and Skyborn Renewables, turned on Friday night and began powering the New England grid. The project, which will reach full capacity soon, has power-purchase agreements with utilities (including Connecticut), aiming to lower energy costs and support jobs.  CT Mirror
  • A flood watch remains in effect across Connecticut as warmer temperatures, melting snow, and heavy rain raise flooding risks. Great River Park in East Hartford is closed after water swamped paths, and local fire officials advise residents to use caution on flooded roads.  WFSB-TV

GOVERNMENT NEWS

  • Advocates gathered at the Capitol last week and testified to the Education Committee on Bill 5468 to increase oversight of homeschooling – one parent emphasized maintaining trust in parental choice. Lawmakers also heard testimony on new gun bills at the Legislative Office Building on March 11 to enhance public safety.  CT News Junkie

LIFESTYLE NEWS

  • Willow the bell-ringing dachshund, famous for a viral video (20 million views), has captured hearts in West Hartford. Owner Tracy Kuhrt will launch a children's book on March 25 with pop-up events at local breweries and craft fairs.  We-Ha

SPORTS NEWS

  • The UConn men’s basketball team is expected to drop in the AP poll after losing to St. John's in the Big East Tournament Championship and will play 15th-seeded Furman on Friday at 10 p.m. in Philadelphia on TBS.  WFSB-TV
  • UConn basketball teams are ramping up training for the 2026 NCAA Tournament and working on strategies on campus. The teams will continue to refine their skills for the upcoming event & fans can expect more updates soon.  WFSB-TV
  • Unbeaten UConn was selected as the No. 1 overall seed in the women’s NCAA Tournament on Sunday — the Huskies, seeking their 13th national championship, will open the tournament at home against UTSA.  NBC Connecticut

EVENTS

SUBMIT EVENT
  • Turas - Contemporary Irish Music

    6-9 p.m. — New Park Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a captivating evening of live Irish music with the band Turas.

    Thu, 3/19/26

    View event
  • Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty

    6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Theater of the Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience a radiant ballet reimagining of Sleeping Beauty with stunning glow-in-the-dark costumes.

    Fri, 3/20/26

    View event
  • Shamrock Run & Walk

    8:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. — Chippens Hill Middle School, Bristol, CT — Registration fee applies — Celebrate Irish spirit with a community 5 & 2-mile road race and fitness walk for all ages.

    Sat, 3/21/26

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  • Annual Johnny's Jog for Charity 5K

    9 a.m. — Blue Back Square — Registration required — Participate in a community run and support a good cause with raffle prizes.

    Sun, 3/22/26

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  • Christian Music Concert Series

    7-11 p.m. — PeoplesBank Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting sounds at a night of inspiring Christian music.

    Fri, 3/27/26

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  • Big Shrimp Live Performance

    9 p.m. — Arch Street Tavern — No cover charge — Experience high-octane rock as Big Shrimp merges funk and improvisation in an unforgettable live show.

    Sat, 3/28/26

    View event
  • Night Zero with Fungkshui

    7 PM - 12 AM — Arch Street Tavern — Free parking available — Experience an electrifying night of live music featuring mesmerizing guitar and bass performances.

    Sat, 4/4/26

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  • Chess Club for Kids

    6:30-7:30 p.m. — Licia & Mason Beekley Community Library — Free entry — A monthly gathering for young chess enthusiasts aged 5-12 to sharpen their skills.

    Tue, 4/7/26

    View event
  • Jeff Leeson Stand-Up Comedy

    7-10 p.m. — Funny Bone Comedy Club & Restaurant — Ticketed event — Experience the phenomenal improv of Jeff Leeson as he leaves the crowd amazed.

    Thu, 4/9/26

    View event
  • Turn It Up Dance Challenge Competitions

    All day — Rockville High School, Vernon, CT — Registration fees apply — Experience an unforgettable weekend of dance competitions with awards and scholarships.

    Fri, 4/10/26

    View event

REAL ESTATE

SUBMIT LISTING

No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.

JOB BOARD

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No new job posts today. You can submit one here.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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