Good morning, Hartford.

John Bell, director of UConn’s Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry — a mentor to students for nearly two decades — will retire next month and continue performing while debuting new puppetry projects at upcoming events such as the Minneapolis Cranky Festival and a Turkey project.

Gas prices are expected to reach record-high Labor Day levels with averages above $4.10 per gallon and diesel near $5.58; Hartford drivers planning holiday trips should prepare for higher fuel costs as oil instability pushes prices up.

West Hartford Public Schools will begin the 2026-27 academic year with teachers starting on Monday, Aug.

24 and students returning on Aug. 26. Superintendent Vicinus announced new hires and building upgrades (including renovation of the servery and new HVAC installations) to enhance learning and safety.

UConn point guard Silas Demary Jr. hosted a free back-to-school bash at the Mark Twain House in Hartford Saturday.

The event provided students with backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, and fun activities to help them start the school year strong.

The Connecticut Department of Social Services and Gainwell Technologies began mailing notices to 41,000 Medicaid members after a data breach affected CT HUSKY records.

Affected individuals are advised to follow the instructions in their mail.