Good morning, Hartford.

Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam and local business owners launched the new Hartford Coffee Trail on Thursday to connect residents with 10 coffee shops where visitors can earn points using the Vibemap app (running from June 1 to Aug.

1).

West Hartford will observe Memorial Day on Monday, May 25 with a parade starting at 10 a.m. at Woodrow and Farmington Avenue + a ceremony at Veterans Memorial at 11 a.m.; trash and recycling pickup will be delayed by one day this week.

Firefighters rescued a dog from a 2-alarm fire at 40-42 Bedford St. in Hartford’s Clay Arsenal neighborhood early Thursday at 3:09 a.m.

Connecticut added 5,700 jobs in April, pushing its workforce to a record 1.72 million jobs while unemployment edged up to 5% as new workers joined the market.

Construction reached an 18-year high (65,200 jobs) and manufacturing hit its peak since Oct. 2024 (154,700 jobs).

Connecticut communities will use a $37 million EPA grant — with $9.5 million for PFAS and $27.5 million for lead issues — to upgrade aging water systems and improve drinking water quality.

Kimberly Haidinger and Luna Hansen mark a year as published authors of two books that teach kids simple actions for climate change inspired by Danish sustainability.

They will sign books at Barnes and Noble in Blue Back Square (May 31, 1 to 4 p.m.) and share tips on reducing waste.

The U.S. Forest Service is considering closing two invasive insect labs in Hamden and Ansonia over the coming year as part of a national reorganization that will relocate staff to Warren, Pennsylvania.

Researchers warn the move could slow efforts to curb pests that harm local trees.

The U.S. Forest Service has proposed closing two labs in CT — one in Hamden and one in Ansonia — as part of a plan to consolidate 57 of 77 research facilities nationwide over the coming year, a move that may delay responses to invasive insects harming local trees.

The global water shortage is affecting local communities as aging pipes cause brownish tap water in Hartford, Waterbury & Bridgeport.

Local residents are urged to monitor water quality and follow updates from local water & sewer departments to avoid health risks.

On May 20, Hall overcame a 10-run deficit to beat Conard 14-11 at Fiondella Field during the Mayor's Cup baseball game.

Tommy Hussey powered a bases-clearing triple that sparked the comeback and clinched their third title.

Gryme: The Ultimate Nu-Metal Experience

9-11:30 p.m. — Arch Street Tavern — Free parking available — Experience the energetic sounds of iconic nu-metal bands like System Of A Down and Linkin Park.

Concert by Robert Earl Keen

7-10 p.m. — Infinity Music Hall Hartford — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of American folk and country music with Robert Earl Keen.

Wishes on Wheels Car Show

11 AM – 3 PM — Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field — Admission details not specified — Enjoy a variety of classic cars, food trucks, and live music in support of a good cause.

40th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Aqua Turf Club — Click for reservations — Celebrate 40 years of sports and community spirit at this fundraising banquet.

Simsbury Land Trust 50th Anniversary Dinner

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Rosedale Farms & Vineyards — Tickets required — Celebrate stewardship and community with music, food, and a keynote from Marshall Epstein.

Wine & Roses Fundraiser

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Pond House Cafe — $150 per person — Enjoy a cocktail reception and live music while supporting Elizabeth Park Conservancy.

Moth-Style Storytelling Evening

7-9 p.m. — Hartford Flavor Company — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of entertaining true stories told live by local storytellers.

Wethersfield Bicycle Festival and Swap Meet

8 a.m.–12 p.m. — Hanmer Elementary School — Free admission — Discover a variety of bicycles, parts, and enjoy family games at this vibrant community gathering.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series

— 5:30-8:30 p.m. — Great River Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music by local bands in a family-friendly atmosphere with scenic views.

Haiden Henderson Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Webster — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying performance of Haiden Henderson in Hartford's vibrant venue.