Good morning, Hartford.

Data from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner shows that at least 46 people have drowned by accident in Connecticut since 2021—11 of those were kids—and experts say using life jackets and watching swimmers closely can help prevent more drownings.

Connecticut State Police arrested Daniel Lowell (63) in Norwich on Thursday after a year-long investigation uncovered (over 400) files of child sexual abuse material and evidence he groomed a 14-year-old, and he was released on a $150,000 bond with a court appearance set for July 31.

Connecticut attorney general William Tong said he would investigate wholesale grocery suppliers for alleged price gouging after tariffs threatened higher grocery prices.

Stores reported stable prices as suppliers shared tariff costs—though prices may rise this fall when more produce must be imported.

A proposed $2.4 billion sale of Aquarion Water Company to the nonprofit Aquarion Water Authority has sparked a statewide debate over water rates and regulatory oversight—supporters point to local control and stable infrastructure investment while critics warn the deal could lead to rising bills. Regulatory review is ongoing and if approved, the sale is set to close by the end of the year.

Twenty-four students from sixteen high schools from eighteen towns attended a five-day mock trial camp held last Friday at the Ribicoff Federal Building in Hartford where they practiced trials and learned about court procedures.

District Court Judge Sarala Nagala said the camp featured panels on litigation and courtroom visits & a naturalization ceremony to help students understand the judicial system.

Gov. Ned Lamont announced that $14 million in state grants preserved nearly 2,300 acres of open space and public parks across Connecticut, including $500,000 to extend the Hartford Riverwalk two miles north along the Connecticut River.

The grants support conservation in 22 towns and will link Hartford to a Windsor park — a project local officials say strengthens regional access to nature.

Three UConn students in Hartford distributed menstrual products and educational materials to public middle schools & Boys and Girls Clubs to battle period poverty, as a Dignity Grows survey found 35.8% of women face this hardship.

They supplied over 600 students this past spring and plan to expand outreach using a $3,000 grant from The Pad Project.

The Connecticut Blood Center said Monday that the state’s blood supply dropped to a two-day level when hospitals normally need a seven-day reserve (donations of all blood types—especially O-negative and O-positive—are urgently needed).

The Ovation Guitar Presentation

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Windsor Public Library — Free entry — Discover the influence of the Ovation Guitar on the music scene of the late 60s and 70s.

Riverfront Hartford 4 Mile Race

6:15-8:00 p.m. — Mortensen Riverfront Plaza — Registration required — Kick off the weekend with a scenic run along the Connecticut River and refreshments post-race.

Saturday Evening Paddle - Kayaking/SUP

5-8 p.m. — Collinsville Canoe & Kayak — Cost varies — Experience the thrill of paddling in the scenic Collinsville area.

Metal Stamped Cuff Bracelet Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Powder Hollow Brewery — Equipment included — Create your own personalized metal stamped cuff bracelet while enjoying drinks and snacks.

Hartford Athletic vs. New Mexico United

7:30 p.m. — Trinity Health Stadium — $60/person — Experience the action with goal-level seating and an all-inclusive pizza party.

Bass Fishing Seminar in Connecticut

6:30 p.m. — Whiton Branch Library — Free entry — Learn strategies and techniques to enhance your bass fishing skills in Connecticut waters.

Taste of the Caribbean & Jerk Festival

1-9 p.m. — Mortensen Riverfront Plaza — Free entry — Experience the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean at this lively food festival featuring island cuisine and music.

Pantera: The Heaviest Tour of the Summer

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Xfinity Theatre — Tickets from $33 — Experience the sheer power of Pantera and Amon Amarth in a night of metal domination.

Riverfront Music Series - Town Band

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Riverfront Community Center — Free entry — Enjoy a summer evening with live music from the Town Band at Riverfront Park.

Dreamwake Release Show

7-9 p.m. — The Webster — All ages — Experience Dreamwake's unique wavecore sound at The Lost Years release show.