Stories
<p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">HARTFORD, CT –</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);"> </span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">State Senator Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield)</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">, Ranking Republican leader on the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, issued a strong response today to the Connecticut Insurance Department’s release of proposed 2026 health insurance rate increases, calling the requested double-digit hikes “completely unsustainable for working and middle-class families and small businesses” across the state.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">The average requested increase for plans on Connecticut’s individual market is </span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">17.8%</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">, while the small group market sees an average proposed hike of </span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">13.1%</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">. In total, these rate filings affect approximately 224,000 policyholders—including 158,000 individuals.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Requested 2026 Rate Increases by Market:</strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Individual Market:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Anthem:</strong> 14.2% (83,790 enrollees)</li><li><strong>CBI:</strong> 21.7% (70,160 enrollees)</li><li><strong>CTCare Insurance Co.:</strong> 26.1% (3,685 enrollees)</li><li><strong>CTCare Inc.:</strong> 5.9% (738 enrollees)</li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Small Group Market:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Anthem:</strong> 13.2% (48,666 enrollees)</li><li><strong>Oxford HMO:</strong> 12.8% (983 enrollees)</li><li><strong>Oxford Insurance Co.:</strong> 12.9% (14,663 enrollees)</li><li><strong>UnitedHealthcare:</strong> 13.1% (1,503 enrollees)</li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">These increases could swell even more by 3.5-6.8% depending on actions taken by the federal government.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">“These proposed increases are unaffordable and unacceptable but not surprising,” said Senator Hwang. “They represent repeated crushing financial burden on Connecticut families—many of whom are already stretched thin.”</span></p><p>Senator Hwang, a longtime advocate for healthcare affordability and accountability, emphasized that federal uncertainty only compounds the problem. “If enhanced federal ACA subsidies are not extended, rates on the individual market could skyrocket further—or insurers may exit the state altogether,” he noted. “Additionally, cost-sharing subsidies are on the federal budget chopping block, which would add even more financial pressure on families.”</p><p>Federal ACA subsidies and cost-sharing funding, both designed to lower healthcare costs, differ in their application. Premium tax credits, a type of ACA subsidy, reduce the monthly insurance premium cost, while cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) lower out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments. </p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senator Hwang has called for greater public transparency and accountability in the rate review process. He has directly requested that the Connecticut Insurance Department hold rate hearings at the CT State Capitol’s Legislative Office Building, just as he had done so in past years. The public hearing process will allow leaders from the Insurance Committee, Office of the Healthcare Advocate, State Comptroller, and Attorney General’s Office to be included in questioning insurers.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">“These increases cannot go unchecked,” Hwang concluded. “Now more than ever, we must fight for transparency, fairness, and real accountability for Connecticut’s healthcare consumers.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">In the face of these challenges, Senator Hwang pointed to legislative reforms that offer a path forward.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senator Hwang worked closely with the Governor’s office to advance cost saving measures this year, and despite not receiving final passage, he advocated and voted for the following key legislative proposals to help lower health care cost:</span></p><ul><li><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2025&bill_num=6870" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">House Bill 6870</a> An Act Addressing Patients’ Prescription Drug Costs, encourages lower cost by seeking pricing and business transparency.</li><li><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2025&bill_num=1253" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Senate Bill 1253</a> An Act Reducing Insurance Rate Premium Requests, encourages participation in benchmark data collection and transparency from Insurers during rate increase review.</li><li><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2025&bill_num=6871" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">House Bill 6871</a> An Act Limiting Out-of-Network Health Care Costs, an effort to cap out of network charges for hospitals and medical providers.</li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">As the lone Republican leader to support all three of these measures in the Insurance Committee, Senator Hwang remains committed to effective methods of lowering costs for consumers.</span></p>
<p><strong>Westport, CT - </strong>Westport Country Playhouse will participate in “Connecticut Open House Day” on Saturday, June 14, from 1 to 5 p.m., offering an admission-free, fun atmosphere with self-guided backstage tours, kids’ activities, music, and food trucks. The event is rain or shine.</p><p>At 1 p.m., Mark Shanahan, Playhouse artistic director, will kick off the event by unveiling the productions planned for the theater’s 2025-26 Season beginning in the fall. Season tickets will go on sale following the announcement. Everyone who renews or purchases a subscription at the Open House will be entered to win a pair of tickets to a performance of choice from a selection of upcoming Playhouse events.</p><p>Starting at 1:40 p.m., guests may enjoy pizza, salad, snacks, and lemonade from Newman's Own “Pay What You Want” Food Truck, and ice cream from Mister Softee. All food is available for purchase; vendors subject to change.</p><p>Kids’ activities include “Toss the Duck,” hosted by Westport Sunrise Rotary; “Decorate Your Own Cookie” from Sweet P Bakery, with cookies available for purchase; and a coloring station for the Playhouse’s upcoming Family Festivities presentation of “The Wizard of Oz.” In addition, Huntington Learning Center will be onsite.</p><p>Live music will be presented by Cate and Mabel, returning to the Playhouse after performing last year at “A Night for Swifties and More,” from 2 to 3 p.m.; and Note to Self, featuring vocalist Maggie Meath alongside guitarist Tim McGrath, from 3:30 to 5 p.m.</p><p>Connecticut Open House Day, now in its 21st year, is an annual event held on the second Saturday of June, provided by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. The purpose of this event is to inspire Connecticut residents to learn about all the experiences in their own backyard, anticipating that this will convert them into ambassadors who will recommend these experiences to other visitors.</p><p>More information on the Playhouse’s Open House at: <a href="https://www.westportplayhouse.org/show/2025-open-house/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">https://www.westportplayhouse.org/show/2025-open-house/</a> </p><p>2025 Programming and Season Sponsor is Barbara Streicker. Media sponsors are Moffly Media and WSHU Public Radio. Westport Country Playhouse is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization.</p><p>A complete schedule of Playhouse events is available at <a href="http://westportplayhouse.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">westportplayhouse.org</a>. All play titles, artists, song selections, dates, and times are subject to change.</p><p>For Westport Country Playhouse information and tickets, visit <a href="http://westportplayhouse.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">westportplayhouse.org</a> or call the box office at (203) 227-4177, toll-free at 1-888-927-7529. Stay connected to the Playhouse on Facebook (Westport Country Playhouse), Instagram (wcplayhouse), and YouTube (WestportPlayhouse). Westport Country Playhouse is located at 25 Powers Court, off Route 1, Westport.</p>
<p><strong>FAIRFIELD, CT</strong> — In the wake of the 2025 legislative session’s conclusion and the failure of the Education Committee’s omnibus bill, <strong>Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield</strong>) reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to the State Department of Education’s efforts to finding a solution to racial disparities in Connecticut school districts and to establish a dedicated work group to confront anti-semitism in our schools and communities.</p><p>In a statement, Senator Hwang stressed the importance of both initiatives and expressed his continued readiness to collaborate across party lines, while sharply criticizing the rushed and fragmented legislative process that ultimately derailed the bill. “I was fully prepared to support legislation addressing racial imbalances and creating an antisemitism work group before the constitutional deadline,” Senator Hwang said. “However, there was a troubling lack of constructive, bipartisan dialogue around these critical issues. The omnibus bill in question, which languished on the Democrat majority controlled Senate calendar for weeks, faced significant opposition in the House due to numerous unrelated and contentious provisions bundled together, many of which strayed far from the bill’s original purpose of promoting civic education.”</p><p>Senator Hwang further noted that he was not asked nor engaged in any meaningful discussions about this bill until just hours before the constitutional deadline expired. “Despite this last-minute approach, I would have supported and voted for the bill if it had been properly raised by the Democratic Senate leadership in time,” he said. “I have consistently supported legislation to address racial disparities in education affecting Fairfield and will continue to do so.”</p><p>Looking ahead, Senator Hwang pledged to pursue alternative pathways to achieve these goals: “I intend to work with Governor Lamont and Senate leadership to ensure that these vital measures—both racial imbalance in schools and the anti-semitism work group, are considered in a possible special session. These issues deserve focused attention, not to be buried in a controversial omnibus package.”</p><p>Senator Hwang remains a passionate advocate for addressing racial disparities in education and promoting inclusive, respectful learning environments in Connecticut’s schools.</p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong style="text-align: justify;">Greenwich, CT - Greenwich Historical Society</strong> invites the public to experience <strong style="text-align: justify;"><em>Re-Framing 95, </em></strong>an interactive art installation and exhibition in collaboration with <strong style="text-align: justify;">Untapped New York</strong>, that explores the impact of Interstate 95 on the historic Cos Cob waterfront, National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House, and overall Greenwich community. The public is invited to experience <em style="text-align: justify;">Re-Framing 95 </em>and join a Guided Walking Tour, presented by Justin Rivers, chief experience officer with Untapped New York, on <strong style="text-align: justify;">Saturday, June 28. Added by popular demand, four tours are offered at 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.</strong> Tours are free for Historical Society members and $15 for non-members and reservations can be made at <a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2AHwEEnx9fpD6kjNVsEqvoGwe3qrwOOj13QZfYbOV3kInTG5WlwH_BbNI5g9wqE8Sj3-RIJHN8W0EGWMsK41BN2S0l4cbDbyrX9COvUUttYBjPcdyZ8uWG-tAOfn1zmTxWNyUeMcb2U8heHcU1J44sRjstA84U2eVthNY2PWTOXBL39U2uY56bw" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="text-align: justify; color: rgb(16, 60, 192);">greenwichhistory.org</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">The interactive art installation and exhibition of <em>Re-Framing 95</em><strong><em> </em></strong>was created in collaboration with Untapped New York and artist Aaron Asis, and features floating large-scale gold frames positioned around the Historical Society’s campus and the Bush-Holley House. Each frame spotlights a view reshaped by I-95, encouraging visitors to reflect on how infrastructure intersects with history and community.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“The response to our opening-weekend walking tours back in April was tremendous,” noted Debra Mecky, executive director and CEO of Greenwich Historical Society. “We are thrilled to be able to offer them again with our exhibition partner Untapped New York before the exhibition closes at the end of June. The walking tours provide the story and history of how I-95 impacted the area and is a powerful way to connect with the stories and landscapes that have shaped Greenwich.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Inside the Historical Society’s Permanent Collections Gallery, an exhibition pairs historic Impressionist artworks from the Cos Cob art colony with contemporary companion pieces by Aaron Asis, imagining the same scenes as they might appear today — with the highway in view.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">“Our Historical Society campus, home to the Cos Cob art colony at the turn of the 19th century, is still a place where artists come to draw and paint en plein air,” noted Mecky. “I-95 has become part of that landscape. This exhibition memorializes how the impressionist artists might have included I-95 had it existed during their time – and showcases how artists see it today.”</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Visitors are also encouraged to come to the Historical Society campus to draw and paint en plein air – in fact, the property is open any time to artists to create on its grounds. Visitors are also invited to participate in a fun social media contest by snapping selfies with at least three of the five outdoor frames that are part of the <em>Re-Framing 95 </em>art installation. Those who post to Instagram tagging @greenwichhistory, @untappedny and @aaron_asis will be entered to win tickets to a sold-out Rediscover Greenwich Avenue walking tour and a limited-edition print by Asis.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><em>Re-Framing 95</em> runs through June 30 at the Greenwich Historical Society’s campus at 47 Strickland Road in Cos Cob. For more information, tickets and contest details, visit <a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2Ay2Z9xacuGF1oUfCRWbEv_J35MmXZDZA-1mjN8RTvOEqTG5WlwFJneGcBOJng43gNvBY-_ZasBc38CmIeZNFV1Y9YIRLeBtlGXugc50hCw5tOaE7kKWLRNUZ7TRQG_44hZZ_b0X0nYMUVKgUX5qT5mW27IPfgQQpBvFSD8dAY2-uJZKh8cp_OA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);">greenwichhistory.org</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/29GcaFu_ysp7D1zGVfDYf7qHEUXl9GOJt6CU6WV_I5bssTG5WlwG5Lb6JiBAvpy6g6ZzHM5nlSEpg1hHcXSJRE48leJj1E0SNbqQ7Izdau3cJeFi2zmKCGUQOFwbXSDGZ1tLKosya657IDztVPJX6cHXmnChsLK-xoaGMm6FqOJQwQ1F6KllaZXchj5dS" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"><strong>Greenwich Historical Society</strong></a> was founded in 1931 to preserve and interpret Greenwich history to strengthen the community’s connection to our past, to each other and to the future. The circa 1730 National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House witnessed slavery and the American Revolution and became the site of Connecticut’s first American Impressionist art colony from 1890 to 1920. Its landscape and gardens are restored based on documentation from the site’s Impressionist era. The campus also includes a nationally accredited museum, library and archives, a museum store, café and a community education center. Greenwich Historical Society educates thousands of school children annually and connects visitors to the history of this globally influential community through exhibitions, lectures, programs and events. It receives no town funding and relies on donations and grants to continue its work in education and preservation. Learn more at<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2O0jdQPPPHHJcYdpSIupYWoUBo_gSxjfhrkXT0ZpsH7IyTG5WlwEuzCTym-C3mXb0mVbJTG_qHyZAxuy1-IE_s0XlK203ATCPbG6nVaUAF4tqY_UNLn9E_9rMMZAHwO40S7T1bCjM9Jxq3fhFRHf6MnJIUeD3DCqNHHdAlYO24rqAmtL89qPXvQ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">greenwichhistory.org</a>.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2N8fPU0RVw_gHengflIBmJTr0tLx-kgUQwEr8sDdH6g00TG5WlwHIkvwUbwwifoGjErwwGevGcPlq8FwDp8H0k1tx8U1mfjVp9YSZQ9ogRWSkRojBi9_OZCTX5yfyBZjGgmV_G6Ff8SXJUM1UQqIaGxF0RiKYcOqaugCBxi1nFcG1J-6_ito" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"><strong>Untapped New York</strong></a><strong> </strong>unearths New York City’s secrets and hidden gems. Founded in 2009, Untapped New York is powered by a team of passionate New Yorkers, always exploring the city and dedicated to its mission of discovery. Visitors<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2527aGkrhJVmTHn1OHk1puIvoC7dgJOhmL_YvOj6mWDE3TG5WlwFCbLIvdbnEq5hqMdEKxDPCVoiIM7wWatl7X4pRUu5U5Wo8-kyXM3VJUHquXD6a3muXB6PwLZ04XV8SLkaQ5IljpMizeLZWEE6ClXXjE5z90jEwlTwLm8uQ6ZnyDQZ-IR_8EIJiJfTgH-Cp3En1EqI" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"> </a><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2527aGkrhJVmTHn1OHk1puIvoC7dgJOhmL_YvOj6mWDE3TG5WlwFCbLIvdbnEq5hqMdEKxDPCVoiIM7wWatl7X4pRUu5U5Wo8-kyXM3VJUHquXD6a3muXB6PwLZ04XV8SLkaQ5IljpMizeLZWEE6ClXXjE5z90jEwlTwLm8uQ6ZnyDQZ-IR_8EIJiJfTgH-Cp3En1EqI" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">uncover new secret and hidden places</a>, get<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2MEah64Ef3ndcn8U13x9nnvJN3JdQYLuyhLoaSWzxvdU8TG5WlwFSw4hicz5q62_vQ5x7pecyXrxWkOOieipgkvniPCnfAq5ADrF9VpJMAwjMU9lmybqtDhvE-uZuN0DwCmQ55UZI-PPchBfN1WFxWmNbPkKQiXH0NoKmnpMIktq8dXJPehJLxFsAdRjmBdulfiyATCeguzgS4iM9Sg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"> </a><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2MEah64Ef3ndcn8U13x9nnvJN3JdQYLuyhLoaSWzxvdU8TG5WlwFSw4hicz5q62_vQ5x7pecyXrxWkOOieipgkvniPCnfAq5ADrF9VpJMAwjMU9lmybqtDhvE-uZuN0DwCmQ55UZI-PPchBfN1WFxWmNbPkKQiXH0NoKmnpMIktq8dXJPehJLxFsAdRjmBdulfiyATCeguzgS4iM9Sg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">behind-the-scenes access</a> and<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2iruXDK8rmAnKr8QcBtEn4gRRBoFbabaDi1Y7yjSLF3g_TG5WlwFm0_ywVpNXUu-eKZ14Ita4_FAmEK_FrIP_RTv5c3LYRlyfqgMuUO0L0USkIScYeFfifo4s5tnTQeYXwFmGzN7op3kYu5A2POm9a88qZG9QLsUKCebFEjfLRJDWQujgNoWP1lTxouvh0xr5hZBhlnwP6Fk5EYjIloYA1cnr_e9_uy81d2g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"> </a><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2iruXDK8rmAnKr8QcBtEn4gRRBoFbabaDi1Y7yjSLF3g_TG5WlwFm0_ywVpNXUu-eKZ14Ita4_FAmEK_FrIP_RTv5c3LYRlyfqgMuUO0L0USkIScYeFfifo4s5tnTQeYXwFmGzN7op3kYu5A2POm9a88qZG9QLsUKCebFEjfLRJDWQujgNoWP1lTxouvh0xr5hZBhlnwP6Fk5EYjIloYA1cnr_e9_uy81d2g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">meet the incredible people</a> shaping the city. Experience NYC’s secrets and hidden gems in person with Untapped New York’s local guides or access the city’s most off limits places by joining its community of passionate<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2u54HNhCK3XM_HDn8DjUwKIscNUCNhYwLA9EcvxWnLjJCTG5WlwGG4hU-SXs2nwNoEm8shb2lSf4VgmmLNmow-EqsD6uW2XDSgStxIeA6YJhbr12pQbLi5qxR2Pc2bPmDjMry-WqoyFhCM5j0vSJVvRpSW2BuRbmAeG9kGHmdvxxZsKQI7CKiDO7QC7fUWn7uICZqXjOoypFpqTbo4pvR9mzsFAtu12OOLQo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"> </a><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2u54HNhCK3XM_HDn8DjUwKIscNUCNhYwLA9EcvxWnLjJCTG5WlwGG4hU-SXs2nwNoEm8shb2lSf4VgmmLNmow-EqsD6uW2XDSgStxIeA6YJhbr12pQbLi5qxR2Pc2bPmDjMry-WqoyFhCM5j0vSJVvRpSW2BuRbmAeG9kGHmdvxxZsKQI7CKiDO7QC7fUWn7uICZqXjOoypFpqTbo4pvR9mzsFAtu12OOLQo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">Untapped New York Insider</a> members. Untapped New York offers many ways to discover New York City and the surrounding suburbs. Learn more at<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2RnTlI6YypIvhv0Rv-QM7AT4RwUXYDzbnlTKXu5jXbQJFTG5WlwF-1EKkGo6jE-jDQ7GdPeP4bEri3KhTj6z0AoR3058iS8NgO7an9PoAjmGSWynBWAqsKO_rlL51dkbR4_g_RWBHV4_SKgl3wWp78KOX9_eRR1vBg2dcsGEdDyPGs56ivlA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">untappedcities.com</a> or follow on<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/21annTK3xctRzx--68lt5faInNgVodtXcoecTFvH2ywVITG5WlwGhzb6C5xzRuyna5EiV5WvmUya216WQvksTY5lPkyvxOXKqNEeu4qnZsLUvHtla-M3Vau8xsyV7PjysdnxRXniIWD9S_E_PQDBQxq4Z37fMGFz6IeUCh8Rzge4AQI6bHb8hNUvurrgqAHNPRA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"> </a><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/21annTK3xctRzx--68lt5faInNgVodtXcoecTFvH2ywVITG5WlwGhzb6C5xzRuyna5EiV5WvmUya216WQvksTY5lPkyvxOXKqNEeu4qnZsLUvHtla-M3Vau8xsyV7PjysdnxRXniIWD9S_E_PQDBQxq4Z37fMGFz6IeUCh8Rzge4AQI6bHb8hNUvurrgqAHNPRA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">Instagram</a> and<a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/20sgP_BG_VghCvzo8ZFYWUiRiYw-h1ZsTUdWP9lxxLPBKTG5WlwEHo4YhwnykLE9j4Ur4KKwh4Zd_mOL9ishZP3H18HCzcgf7NzAxCva7eTpDlJaArbbX2P-mqFH9WV72mt7ziLxQjpOSn5xk5kZALOSIfmnz1EHdwq-RjA6xODecILEd44-K79VWGyk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 60, 192);"> </a><a href="https://jhowardpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/20sgP_BG_VghCvzo8ZFYWUiRiYw-h1ZsTUdWP9lxxLPBKTG5WlwEHo4YhwnykLE9j4Ur4KKwh4Zd_mOL9ishZP3H18HCzcgf7NzAxCva7eTpDlJaArbbX2P-mqFH9WV72mt7ziLxQjpOSn5xk5kZALOSIfmnz1EHdwq-RjA6xODecILEd44-K79VWGyk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(14, 36, 178);">Facebook</a> at @untappedny.</p><p><br></p>
<p class="ql-align-center">Fairfield, Conn. – The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce has announced the date of its 79<sup>th</sup> Annual Chamber Member Recognition and Awards Dinner to be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, 5:30-8:00PM, at The Black Rock Yacht Club in Bridgeport, CT. Honoree Recognition for the following, in alphabetical order by award:</p><p><strong>Business of the Year</strong> </p><ul><li><strong>ShopRite Fairfield</strong>: Accepted by: Tom Cingari, Jr., Vice President</li></ul><p><strong>Restaurant of the Year</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Colony Grill: </strong>Accepted by Jim Kelly, Director of Operations and Michael Swezey, General Manager</li></ul><p><strong>Economic Impact Award</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Hartford HealthCare</strong>: Accepted by: William Jennings – Fairfield Region President</li></ul><p><strong>Non-Profit of the Year</strong></p><ul><li><strong>YMCA</strong> <strong>Fairfield</strong>– Accepted by: Diana Liptak, Executive Director</li></ul><p><strong>Entrepreneur Extraordinaire Award</strong></p><ul><li><strong>BE Chocolat: </strong>Accepted by Benoit Racquet and Sylvie Fortin (in absentia), Owners</li></ul><p>“Historically, the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce has been holding this event for many, many years, and this June 26th, will be our 79<sup>th</sup> year!”, states Beverly A. Balaz, President of the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. “This annual Chamber tradition, and the purpose of this event, is to recognize and acknowledge those local Chamber businesses and non-profit organizations who have made a positive impact within our community.”</p><p>Beverly continues, “Appreciation comes in many forms … and for the annual Chamber’s Recognition and Awards Dinner, we believe that it is just nice to openly say “thank you” and recognize businesses, organizations, and hard-working people for their important contributions to the Town of Fairfield – that’s what this annual Awards Dinner is all about … to <strong>Congratulate, Celebrate, and say Thank You</strong>!”</p><p>“This will be a very special evening”, continues Beverly, “as we will be recognizing five incredible individuals, businesses and organizations, that make Fairfield thrive. Honorees include:</p><ul><li>BE Chocolat</li><li>Colony Grill</li><li>Hartford HealthCare</li><li>ShopRite</li><li>YMCA Fairfield</li></ul><p>The Chamber strongly believes, and supports, the importance of our local business and non-profit community – together, they are the very essence of our Town, building a solid foundation that attracts other businesses and families to move here. We have a special and unique Town vibrancy for residents and visitors to shop, dine and enjoy all that Fairfield has to offer, including our growing performing arts & entertainment sector. Last year, Fairfield held more than 80 ribbon cuttings! </p><p>“Opening remarks by Mark Barnhart, Director of Community & Economic Development for the Town of Fairfield, this Annual Chamber Member Recognition & Awards Dinner always proves to be a wonderful and magical evening where the closest of friends, family, and colleagues all happily come together to acknowledge and recognize each honoree for their outstanding community contributions. Open to the public, we encourage customers and clients to attend as well, to say “thank you”, show support and recognize their favorite business,” added Ms. Balaz.</p><p><strong>Evening Details:</strong></p><ul><li>5:30pm-6:30pm: Patio Reception.(Open Bar/Beer & Wine)</li><li>6:30pm-7:00pm: Served Plated Dinner.</li><li>7:00pn-8:00pm: Opening Town Remarks and Evening Awards Program.</li></ul><p>We want to thank all of our sponsors for their kind and generous support: Tickets are available for those who would like to attend the Chamber’s 79th Annual Chamber Member Recognition & Awards Dinner to participate, support and say “Thank You” to the honorees. </p><p>For more information and details about the 79th Annual Chamber Member Recognition & Awards Dinner - or to purchase tickets, reserve program congratulations ad space, or to participate as a sponsor, please contact the Chamber office: 203-255-1011 or register online: <a href="http://www.FairfieldCTChamber.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">www.FairfieldCTChamber.com</a>. </p><p><strong>Date:</strong> Thursday, June 26th, 2025</p><p><strong>Location: </strong></p><p>Black Rock Yacht Club</p><p>80 Grovers Avenue. Bridgeport, CT 06605</p><p><strong>Time:</strong> 5:30PM-8:00PM</p><p><strong>Tickets:</strong> $100 (Public is Welcome to Attend)</p><p><strong>RSVP: </strong> June 18, 2025 (Seats are limited, no walk-in’s).</p>
<p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">HARTFORD, CT –</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);"> </span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">State Senator Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield)</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">, Ranking Republican leader on the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, issued a strong response today to the Connecticut Insurance Department’s release of proposed 2026 health insurance rate increases, calling the requested double-digit hikes “completely unsustainable for working and middle-class families and small businesses” across the state.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">The average requested increase for plans on Connecticut’s individual market is </span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">17.8%</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">, while the small group market sees an average proposed hike of </span><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">13.1%</strong><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">. In total, these rate filings affect approximately 224,000 policyholders—including 158,000 individuals.</span></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Requested 2026 Rate Increases by Market:</strong></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Individual Market:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Anthem:</strong> 14.2% (83,790 enrollees)</li><li><strong>CBI:</strong> 21.7% (70,160 enrollees)</li><li><strong>CTCare Insurance Co.:</strong> 26.1% (3,685 enrollees)</li><li><strong>CTCare Inc.:</strong> 5.9% (738 enrollees)</li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Small Group Market:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Anthem:</strong> 13.2% (48,666 enrollees)</li><li><strong>Oxford HMO:</strong> 12.8% (983 enrollees)</li><li><strong>Oxford Insurance Co.:</strong> 12.9% (14,663 enrollees)</li><li><strong>UnitedHealthcare:</strong> 13.1% (1,503 enrollees)</li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">These increases could swell even more by 3.5 - 6.8% depending on actions taken by the federal government.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">“These proposed increases are unaffordable and unacceptable but not surprising,” said Senator Hwang. “They represent repeated crushing financial burden on Connecticut families—many of whom are already stretched thin.”</span></p><p>Senator Hwang, a longtime advocate for healthcare affordability and accountability, emphasized that federal uncertainty only compounds the problem. “If enhanced federal ACA subsidies are not extended, rates on the individual market could skyrocket further—or insurers may exit the state altogether,” he noted. “Additionally, cost-sharing subsidies are on the federal budget chopping block, which would add even more financial pressure on families.”</p><p>Federal ACA subsidies and cost-sharing funding, both designed to lower healthcare costs, differ in their application. Premium tax credits, a type of ACA subsidy, reduce the monthly insurance premium cost, while cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) lower out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments. </p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senator Hwang has called for greater public transparency and accountability in the rate review process. He has directly requested that the Connecticut Insurance Department hold rate hearings at the CT State Capitol’s Legislative Office Building, just as he had done so in past years. The public hearing process will allow leaders from the Insurance Committee, Office of the Healthcare Advocate, State Comptroller, and Attorney General’s Office to be included in questioning insurers.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">“These increases cannot go unchecked,” Hwang concluded. “Now more than ever, we must fight for transparency, fairness, and real accountability for Connecticut’s healthcare consumers.”</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">In the face of these challenges, Senator Hwang pointed to legislative reforms that offer a path forward.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">Senator Hwang worked closely with the Governor’s office to advance cost saving measures this year, and despite not receiving final passage, he advocated and voted for the following key legislative proposals to help lower health care cost:</span></p><ul><li><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2025&bill_num=6870" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">House Bill 6870</a> An Act Addressing Patients’ Prescription Drug Costs, encourages lower cost by seeking pricing and business transparency.</li><li><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2025&bill_num=1253" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Senate Bill 1253</a> An Act Reducing Insurance Rate Premium Requests, encourages participation in benchmark data collection and transparency from Insurers during rate increase review.</li><li><a href="https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2025&bill_num=6871" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">House Bill 6871</a> An Act Limiting Out-of-Network Health Care Costs, an effort to cap out of network charges for hospitals and medical providers.</li></ul><p><span style="color: rgb(49, 49, 49);">As the lone Republican leader to support all three of these measures in the Insurance Committee, Senator Hwang remains committed to effective methods of lowering costs for consumers.</span></p>
<p class="ql-align-center"><strong>Fairfield, CT —</strong> For the 14th consecutive year, the Fairfield Rotary Club honored local Veterans by collecting donations along the town’s Memorial Day Parade route. More than 20 Rotary Club volunteers, joined by five Veterans from <em>Homes for the Brave</em>, gathered non-perishable food items, canned goods, and monetary contributions from paradegoers to support homeless and at-risk Veterans.</p><p>In keeping with tradition, local Veterans rode alongside volunteers in the collection truck, helping raise both awareness and vital resources. The community response was overwhelming: in addition to hundreds of food items donated, the Rotary collected over $5,000 in financial contributions.</p><p>The effort received an extraordinary boost from the <em>Knights of Columbus</em>, who generously matched donations with an additional $4,000—bringing the total raised to more than $9,000. All proceeds will directly benefit <em>Homes for the Brave</em>, a local organization dedicated to serving Veterans in need.</p><p>The Fairfield Rotary Club extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed—whether through donations, volunteer time, or helping spread the word. Special appreciation goes to the <em>Knights of Columbus</em> for their impactful matching gift and continued community partnership.</p><p>The Club is looking for new members who want to make a difference in their community and have fun doing it. To find out more about the Fairfield Rotary Club, visit <a href="http://www.FairfieldRotary.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">www.FairfieldRotary.org</a>.</p><p>.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </span></p>