Good morning, Hartford.

A jury ruled last Wednesday that Live Nation, owner of Ticketmaster, ran an illegal monopoly by overcharging for concert tickets.

A federal judge will decide next steps as more than 30 states, including Connecticut, have sued to boost competition.

Hartford school officials are working to close a projected $70 million budget shortfall over the next two years as the state begins a formal financial audit of the district today.

The Yard Goats have launched a Student Reading Challenge for K-8 students who read five non-school books this summer, with registration ending June 5 — winners receive two game tickets and the chance to throw out the first pitch at Dunkin’ Park, with reading completed by July 31.

DEEP’s 2026 State of the Bears report shows that bear activity and conflicts are rising across the state — residents are urged to secure trash and remove bird feeders as Connecticut averages four home entries per 100 bears compared with one per 100 in nearby areas.

Connecticut lawmakers are reviewing Raised Bill No. 263 today that would fund an annual program to offer free swim lessons to children under 17 in qualifying areas, aiming to reduce drowning risks among underserved communities.

Gov Ned Lamont proposed providing a tax credit for small businesses (ICHRAs) to help cover employee health insurance during a press event at Fascia’s Chocolates in Waterbury yesterday.

The plan passed the Human Services Committee and now heads to the Finance Committee for further review.

Dog Star Rescue will hold its 'Unleashing the Stars' Gala on Saturday, April 18 at 6 p.m. at the Delamar Hotel in West Hartford.

The gala will honor community leaders and include cocktail hour, dinner, auctions & live performances to support rescue efforts.

The Party Animals and the Indianapolis Clowns will bring Banana Ball to Dunkin' Park from July 23-25 as part of the Banana Ball World Tour.

Fans can join a ticket lottery online for tickets starting at $35.

Silas Demary Jr. will return to play for the Huskies in the 2026-2027 season as announced via UConn’s social media post — his strong performance helped guide the team to a championship game appearance.

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.

Tayler Holder Live in Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Webster — $31.15 — Experience Tayler Holder in an all-ages concert showcasing his talent and energy.