Good morning, Hartford.

Spooner House in Shelton is reporting a surge in families needing emergency shelter, meals and support as rising rents and weakened networks push more residents to seek help.

The nonprofit served over 200 people last year—37 families with children—and now faces challenges meeting growing demand.

Billy Collins' Fair Weather Growers in Rocky Hill is struggling with rising fuel and fertilizer costs due to global conflict and severe weather as the 2026 planting season unfolds + the farmer plans to cut planting by a third and boost direct sales to sustain his family legacy.

Warmer weather boosts fly fishing along the Farmington River as Steve Hogan (a veteran guide) of Fly Fish the Farmington welcomes anglers from nearby regions through July 4.

Torrey Collins of Upcountry Sportfishing noted that business recovered strongly after a challenging winter.

Local drag performer Auntie Lu began her residency at The Elbow Room in West Hartford Center on March 8 with a full house.

She will host her next show, Ladies Who Lunch, on April 25 with a fun drag performance.

Connecticut state officials are considering a universal free breakfast for public students after proposals are included in the budget and backed by more than 100 legislators (with an estimated cost of $12 million).

A final decision is expected before the May deadline.

Kingswood Oxford invites students in grades 4-7 to attend S.P.A.R.K, a free morning of science discovery at Kingswood Oxford Middle School in West Hartford on Saturday, May 16 from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. (check-in begins at 8:45 a.m.); registration is required by May 12.

Connecticut lawmakers are questioning the 10-cent bottle deposit after redemption rates hit 97% by 2025, raising concerns about out-of-state returns affecting local revenue.

Two Senate bills may adjust the system, but House Speaker Matt Ritter (D-Hartford) prefers to wait for more data.

Hartford City Council is reviewing the school budget as Hartford Public Schools reported a shortfall of over $70 million.

Council president TJ Clarke said the city may cover about $3 million ahead of the Board of Education’s April 22 presentation – a start before a May budget vote.

Wallingford group Soul Friends is launching an eight-session equine therapy study for women with long COVID and chronic fatigue.

The Horses Inspire Program, led by social worker Kate Nicoll and partnered with Quinnipiac and Cleveland State Universities, offers 16 spots (few remain available) with mindfulness, breathing techniques and obstacle courses.

Ticks are on the rise in Connecticut as researchers at the state lab warn of early Lyme disease risks (wear long sleeves and check for ticks) to help residents stay safe outdoors.

On Friday night, Hall High School boys volleyball team hosted SMSA in West Hartford and won the match 3-0 with scores of 25-19, 25-18, and 25-14.

The Titans began spring break with a strong win.

Manufacturing Happy Hour

4-6 PM — New Park Brewing — Free entry — Connect with fellow manufacturers while enjoying local beers in a relaxed setting.

Nature Storytime with Miss Jan

1-2 p.m. — Licia & Mason Beekley Community Library — Free entry — Explore the wonders of nature and learn about worms in this engaging storytime session.

Whine & W3rk Caribbean Dance Fitness Class

7-9 p.m. — The Webster — Ticket required — Get ready to unleash your energy with a high-energy Caribbean dance fitness class open to all levels.

Native Gardens

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Hartford Stage — Tickets start at $118 — An unforgettable theatrical experience in Hartford.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: The Greatest Show On Earth

7-10 p.m. — PeoplesBank Arena — Ticket required for ages 2+ — Experience the thrill of circus fun with exciting performances and spectacles.

Turf Opener: 37 Years of Racing Madness

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — R/C Madness — Registration open — Celebrate 37 years of racing with intense turf competitions across multiple classes.

Native Gardens

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Hartford Stage — Tickets from $136 — Experience the can't-miss live show at Hartford Stage.

Protoje Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Webster — Tickets from $54 — Experience a night of vibrant reggae music with Protoje live on stage.

Dar Williams Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Infinity Music Hall — Ticket prices TBD — Experience the evocative sounds of Dar Williams as she reflects on life through her music.

Native Gardens

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Hartford Stage — Tickets starting at $136 — Experience the can't-miss live event of Native Gardens in Hartford.