Joshua Hall

Started by the legislature over two decades ago as a way to help families with back-to-school shopping needs, the state's Sales Tax-Free Week offers everyone a chance to save money on new clothing and footwear.

In Hartford, there are two options available for city families - Keney Park will host the North Hartford event and Goodwin Park will host the South Hartford event.

August 6, from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. The event includes free food, fun activities, and police and community partnerships.

Saturday, the Blue Hills Civic Association will hold its annual community clean up. If you're interested in helping, please meet at the corner of Barbour Street and Westland Street at 8:30 a.m. for a 9 a.m. start. 

Consider nominating a veteran for this year's Veterans Hall of Fame class. The nominating period runs until September 15. An official induction ceremony will be held later in the year.

Last week, I had the honor of helping to welcome Valerie Powell-Stafford, MHSA, FACHE, as the new president of St. Francis Hospital. She comes to Hartford with 25 years of experience, including most recently serving as President and CEO of HCA Northside Hospital, in St. Petersburg, Florida. As president, she will also oversee Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital.

Starting tonight and running through Sunday night, the Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz will bring Bushnell Park to life with the sounds of jazz. This is the 33rd annual event featuring hot and cool jazz at the Performance Pavilion, featuring great artists from around the world and the USA. The festival offers FREE ADMISSION!

With the weather forecast indicating Connecticut will experience very hot and humid temperatures over the next several days, Governor Lamont has directed Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol to be activated and remain in effect through 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Connecticut's credit rating has been upgraded again while the state budget is on track to post another surplus for the current fiscal year.