The Grand Rising

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Today's Edition

THE GRAND RISING (TGR) — NEWSROOM #070

Thursday, September 17, 2026

Good Morning. Welcome to The Grand Rising (TGR)—where headlines meet humanity, facts fuel conversation, and every sunrise is another opportunity to become better informed.

RUSSIA SANCTIONS, IRAN WAR COSTS AND A FEDERAL RATE HIKE

Washington is facing several major decisions at the same time, with war, sanctions, inflation and interest rates increasingly connected.

U.S. LEAD: RUSSIA SANCTIONS BILL HEADS TO TRUMP

The House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 on Wednesday by a vote of 262–159. The bill targets Russian officials, financial institutions, energy companies and Russia's oil-shipping network. It would also authorize tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, including major importers such as China and India. The Senate had already passed the legislation, so it now goes to President Trump.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: The legislation could affect Russia, U.S. relations with countries buying Russian energy, international trade and potentially prices for American consumers.

IRAN WAR: THE PRICE TAG CONTINUES TO GROW

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the United States had spent approximately $38 billion on the Iran war through August 1. CBO estimates the cost could increase by roughly $2 billion to $3 billion per month if the conflict continues. The war has also affected energy prices and military munitions.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: The cost of war isn't limited to military operations. Energy prices, federal spending, military readiness and inflation can all be affected.

FEDERAL RESERVE RAISES INTEREST RATES

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest-rate target by a quarter point Wednesday, to 3.75%–4%, its first increase since 2023. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh said inflation remains too high, while the central bank also cited geopolitical developments and higher energy costs.

President Trump criticized the decision, saying the Federal Reserve was acting politically and should instead lower rates. The Fed maintains that its monetary-policy decisions are based on economic conditions and its mandate.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: Higher rates can eventually increase borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans and credit cards while the Fed attempts to bring inflation down.

CANADA AND THE EUROPEAN UNION

U.S.-Canada trade tensions remain elevated. At the same time, Canada and the European Union are discussing deeper cooperation, including a proposal for Canada to receive an associate relationship with the EU. President Trump has criticized the proposal and threatened additional trade action against Europe.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: Canada, the EU and the United States are deeply connected through trade. Changes in tariffs and trade relationships can eventually reach businesses, workers and consumers.

STRATFORD

HOMESTEAD TAX FORMS

Stratford's Limited Homestead Exemption remains under study. The Town Council authorized the Tax Assessor to send attestation forms to help determine which primary owner-occupied residences could potentially qualify. The information will help the town conduct its required analysis.

TGR REMINDER: If you receive the form, complete it and return it promptly.

HAVE A TRAFFIC CONCERN? TELL STRATFORD POLICE

Stratford Police are asking residents to report traffic complaints and concerns. For police, fire or medical emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency public-safety matters, Stratford's Public Safety Dispatch Center can be reached at 203-385-4100.

STRATFORD RESTAURANT WEEK & THE GOLDEN FORK

Stratford Restaurant Week begins Sunday, September 20 and runs through Saturday, September 26, with nearly two dozen restaurants participating. Customers can save their receipts and enter the annual Golden Fork Award drawing for Stratford restaurant gift cards.

And don't forget Stratford's automated speed cameras. In July, 4,861 violations were recorded in three school zones. First offenses carry a $50 fine, with subsequent violations generally $75.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“Freedom unexercised may be freedom forfeited.”
— Margaret Chase Smith, former U.S. Senator from Maine.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

With war, inflation, interest rates and trade affecting everyday life, which issue do you believe deserves the most attention from our elected officials right now?

Leave your comment or suggestion on Infoblips.com under “Send Feedback.”

John Haynes
The Grand Rising (TGR) | Infoblips LLC
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