Elisabeth DeLuca, former wife of Subway billionaire Fred DeLuca, donates $50 million to establish a new School of Nursing at the University of Connecticut's Storrs campus, marking a significant philanthropic contribution to the institution.

The National Coast Guard Museum in New London is set to open in 2026, with nearly $100 million in funding secured from federal and private sources, though an additional $50 million is needed. The project has received widespread support from over 6,730 donors globally. Connecticut has contributed $20 million, emphasizing the museum's cultural and economic impact. Senator Chris Murphy, a key supporter, highlighted the challenges due to funding restrictions but expressed optimism about closing the funding gap. The museum will feature interactive exhibits and serve as the permanent home for the US Coast Guard Training Ship, Barque Eagle.

The Coast Guard Museum in New London, Connecticut, is scheduled to open in 2026, with significant funding from the federal government and the state. U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, who chairs the subcommittee responsible for the Department of Homeland Security's budget, played a key role in securing the necessary funds. The museum will feature interactive exhibits and educational programs, with a total project cost estimated at $150 million.

Officials from various levels of government celebrated the completion of a microgrid project at the US Navy's submarine base in Groton, Connecticut. This project, which took a decade to complete, aims to enhance energy resilience and security at the base.

The US Navy's submarine base in Groton, Connecticut, has completed a $250-million microgrid project, enhancing its energy independence and resilience. The microgrid, funded by federal and state sources, allows the base to generate its own electricity during public grid outages, ensuring operational continuity. Governor Ned Lamont emphasized the importance of energy reliability for security, while Captain Ken Curtin highlighted the microgrid's role in improving energy efficiency and cost savings. The project is seen as a model for other military bases, with officials like US Senator Richard Blumenthal and US Representative Joe Courtney praising its significance. The initiative aligns with broader climate action and infrastructure goals, as noted by Meredith Berger, Assistant Secretary of the Navy.

The U.S. Navy's largest submarine base in New London, Connecticut, has launched a new $250 million microgrid project, enhancing energy security by allowing the base to generate its own power during outages. The microgrid, comprising generators and fuel cells using natural gas, is the only one of its scale on the East Coast. Governor Ned Lamont highlighted its importance for security and resilience against severe weather and other threats, emphasizing the strategic significance of the region, which includes Electric Boat and the Coast Guard.

U.S. Representative Joe Courtney has been awarded the Order of Australia, a prestigious civilian honor, for his significant contributions to U.S.-Australia relations. Courtney, who co-chairs the Friends of Australia Caucus, played a key role in the AUKUS trilateral defense agreement, facilitating the provision of nuclear submarines to Australia. This agreement marks a historic collaboration between the U.S., Australia, and the UK. The award will be presented to Courtney at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.

A survey by the National Community Pharmacist Association reveals that 90% of independent pharmacies may not stock reduced-priced Medicare Part D drugs due to inadequate reimbursement policies. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' guidance is criticized for not ensuring fair and timely payments, putting pharmacies at financial risk. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are highlighted as powerful entities controlling drug pricing and reimbursement, with CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRX dominating the market. The Federal Trade Commission is suing these PBMs for anticompetitive practices. Despite legislative efforts, transparency and fair practices remain a challenge, impacting independent pharmacies and drug affordability.

During a four-hour meeting at City Hall in New London, the 119K Commission, along with panelists, industry experts, and mayors from around Connecticut, discussed the state's workforce development issues and strategies to reconnect 119,000 disconnected youth to education and the economy.

New London County faces a severe childcare crisis, with nearly 8,000 families unable to find childcare slots. Advocates and employers discussed potential solutions at an event organized by a coalition including United Way of Southeastern Connecticut and The Connecticut Project. Proposed solutions include a Tri-Share Child Care Model and Child Care Business Incubators. Legislative efforts are underway with two bills aimed at addressing the crisis. The event highlighted the significant impact on the workforce, particularly women, and emphasized the need for further advocacy and legislative action.