Good morning, Hartford.

A tourism expert told local journalist Susan Raff that rising costs are challenging summer vacation plans for families as they adjust budgets for travel, lodging, and meals (essential expenses).

Rising costs are making Connecticut families rethink summer vacations — a tourism expert explained the trend to Chief Political Reporter Susan Raff, noting many households now adjust budgets for travel.

Connecticut is phasing out kindergarten entry waivers — which allowed children who turn 5 after Sept.

1 to begin kindergarten early — so families must adjust enrollment plans soon.

A recent audit of Charter Oak State College revealed that six of 10 telecommuting employees did not have documented approval for remote work during fiscal years 2023 and 2024, and college officials said they will update their internal controls + procedures to better meet collective bargaining requirements.

Experts say Connecticut is facing a mix of heavy rains and long droughts, which may increase runoff, water contamination and farming challenges as climate change takes hold.

UConn educators explained that these shifting patterns are expected to worsen over time.

Eversource is expected to ask regulators to raise electric rates by 11 percent, a move that may intensify debate during the governor’s race.

The proposal comes as local consumers face some of the highest electric bills in the state.

Lawmakers are discussing a bill to expand the H-2A visa program for seasonal farmworkers, which Hartford dairy farmer Cricket Jacquier said could help local farms secure stable labor.

The proposed bill would remove seasonal limits while keeping the program temporary.

Federal subsidy cuts led to over 22,000 Connecticut residents losing ACA coverage in the first half of 2026 due to missed premium payments; overall enrollment dropped only slightly as Gov. Lamont allocated $115 million to aid low-income enrollees.

The governor is expected to develop a new subsidy plan for 2027.

Testosterone prescriptions in Connecticut increased 63% over the past three years, with most given to men with low T symptoms such as low energy and low sex drive — a trend that mirrors a national rise driven by online advertising and alternative clinics.

Health experts warned that a cyclospora outbreak has made thousands sick, and Connecticut officials are checking food sources + urging residents to follow safe food handling practices.

Connecticut officials confirmed 30 cases of cyclosporiasis that have not required hospital treatment.

Public health experts advise Hartford residents to wash produce plus practice safe food handling as cases are being monitored.

Hartford Tennis Club will host the Walter Rapp-Shirley Fry Senior Men’s & Women’s Singles & Doubles Jubilee from July 23 to 26 on its green clay courts in West Hartford.

Over 70 senior competitors, including a new 90+ age division, will compete in this USTA Level 4 tournament.

The Hartford Wolf Pack announced its season schedule for 2026 to 2027 — starting with a road opener on Oct.

3 in Allentown and a home opener on Oct. 10 at PeoplesBank Arena against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. The team faces 15 opponents in its 30th anniversary season.

Petit Family Foundation 5K Road Race & Fitness Walk

7 a.m. — Plainville High School — Registration fee applies — Participate in a meaningful event honoring family legacy while enjoying fitness and community spirit.

Life. Be in it. Extravaganza

5-10 p.m. — Mill Pond Park — $20-$30 — Experience a vibrant local carnival with exciting rides, games, and delicious food.

ConnectiCon Multiday Pass

Over four days — Connecticut Convention Center — Pricing varies — Celebrate pop culture through comics, gaming, anime, and more with over 7,000 hours of programming.

44th Annual Life-Be In It Extravaganza

5:00 – 9:30 PM — Mill Pond Park — $25 for unlimited rides on July 17th — Experience a local carnival with exciting rides, games, and delicious food.

11th Annual Hartford Latino Fest 2026

12-7 p.m. — Dunkin' Park — Free admission — Celebrate the vibrant Latino culture with food, music, and community festivities.

ConnectiCon - Sunday

3:30-7:30 a.m. — Connecticut Convention Center — Tickets from $107 — Experience an unforgettable event for fans at the heart of Hartford.

Hartford Healthcare Women's Championship - Friday

3:30-7:30 a.m. — Golf Club of Avon — Tickets from $62 — Experience a can't-miss live golf competition in Avon.

Ne-Yo & Akon Concert

8:00 p.m. — The Meadows Music Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting night of R&B and hip-hop with two music icons.

Hartford Healthcare Women's Championship

3:30-7:30 a.m. — Golf Club of Avon — Tickets from $62 — Experience the excitement of top-tier women's golf at a premier venue.

Season 5 Finale Celebration

2-4 p.m. — Mandell JCC — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the culmination of an exceptional season of dance with performances and a reception.