Good morning, Norwalk.

Frederick Chiu, a world-famous pianist, and his wife Jeanine Esposito were honored in Norwalk for starting a new arts group called The Hive.

They recently sold their historic Westport home (Beechwood) and will work with local arts groups to bring people together through culture.

Author Ocean Vuong, who grew up in Hartford and earned a MacArthur Foundation genius grant, set his new novel in a made-up Connecticut town called Gladness and says he aims to show Hartford as a place with both hard memories and strong promise.

He draws on family stories and personal struggles (such as seeing real life behind harsh media images) to reframe the town as full of potential.

Studies show that spotted lanternflies have been found in large numbers across Connecticut — including in Norwalk — and research indicates that bats are increasingly eating these pests.

Scientists tracked the insects’ DNA in bat droppings and discovered a rise over time, suggesting that bats may help control the invasive species.

Norwalk Public Schools received a $21.5M state grant that will cover 60% of the costs to install or upgrade air conditioning in six schools including Brien McMahon High, Brookside, Marvin, Naramake, Silvermine, and Rowayton.

The upgrades, scheduled for completion from December to summer 2026, are expected to reduce heat issues for students, teachers, and parents—officials say the improvement will create a more comfortable learning environment.

Gov. Ned Lamont signed a law in June that requires battery manufacturers to develop a state-approved plan for free drop-off & recycling of batteries across Connecticut, with the law taking effect in October and plans due by 2027.

CIAC announced division changes for the 2025 football playoffs—Daniel Hand will drop to Class SS while Notre Dame-West Haven moves to Class LL, along with 24 other team shifts.

Official practices begin on August 14 and games start on Sept. 11 with playoffs starting on December 2.

Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — District Music Hall — Ticket details to be announced — Experience the sounds of acclaimed musician Nick Lowe alongside the energetic Los Straitjackets.