Good morning, Hartford.

On Thursday, the city of Hartford hosted a back to school celebration at Dunkin’ Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., where Hartford Public Schools families received free school supplies— including thousands of backpacks—and enjoyed food and activities.

Generous sponsors provided additional resources to support students.

A popular brunch spot, Place 2 Be, reopened its Downtown location after an abrupt closure when the Department of Revenue Service suspended its seller permit for tax issues — records show the business has faced ongoing problems with unpaid rent at some locations.

Today, the Connecticut Office of Higher Education reopens its Student Loan Reimbursement Program on the CT Scholars portal to help residents manage student debt.

The program offers up to $5,000 a year to eligible borrowers and now accepts a wider range of work and volunteer experience—including support for former Stone Academy students.

A new state regulation now mandates that all 169 Connecticut towns install video cameras to monitor absentee ballot drop boxes — a move designed to prevent fraud following past irregularities.

The system costs include about $3,500 for the cameras, $1,500 for installation, and $1,500 for five-month data storage, with town clerks managing the footage as public records.

State leaders are investigating ways to protect bicyclists after a recent rise in bike crashes—officials will announce new safety measures soon.

Two Connecticut state employee retirees have criticized the Medicare Advantage plan and asked for a traditional Medicare option in the new benefits contract that expires in 2027—citing delays in care during serious medical needs.

Their group, Connecticut State Employees for Medicare Choice, has 1,500 members and will push SEBAC to include this option in upcoming talks with the state.

Barrington Levy Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Webster — Tickets from $36 — Experience the thrilling sounds of Barrington Levy in Hartford's vibrant venue.

Kayaking and SUP Coaching

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Collinsville Canoe & Kayak — Free entry — Learn the basics of kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding at a local venue.

Riverfront East Hartford 5 Mile

6:15–8:00 p.m. — Goodwin University — Registration fees apply — Test your endurance at this scenic 5-mile run along the riverfront in East Hartford.

Ultimate Music Trivia Night

6-8 p.m. — Powder Hollow Brewery — No cover charge — Test your music knowledge with trivia spanning all genres and earn prizes in a fun atmosphere.

Portland Sea Dogs vs. Hartford Yard Goats

7:10-8:40 p.m. — Dunkin' Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch a thrilling Minor League Baseball game between the Sea Dogs and the Yard Goats.

Portland Sea Dogs at Hartford Yard Goats

7:10-8:40 p.m. — Dunkin' Park — Check ticket prices — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup between the Sea Dogs and Yard Goats.

UConn Huskies Football 2025 Season Tickets

Aug 28-29 — Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field — Prices may vary — Secure your seats for all the thrilling home games of the UConn Huskies this football season.

Josh Johnson: The Flowers Tour

7-8:30 p.m. — The Bushnell Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of sharp wit and hilarious storytelling with Emmy-nominated comedian Josh Johnson.

Hardy Live Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Xfinity Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the country rock extravaganza by ACM and CMA winner Hardy on his Jim Bob World Tour.

Hartford Jerk and BBQ Festival

10 AM – 12 AM — Tropix Caribbean Grille — $25 adults, $5 kids — Experience delicious Jamaican jerk cuisine along with family-friendly fun and entertainment.