Good morning, Hartford.

A Hartford nonprofit, COMPASS Youth Collaborative, helps teens affected by violence by linking them with mentors who share similar experiences—its program shows lower repeat offender rates and fewer homicides compared to past years.

The initiative builds confidence in youths like 19-year-old Raiden McDade, who now sets ambitious goals for his future.

Pratt & Whitney has been awarded a $670 million contract modification from the War Department to produce additional F135 engines for F-35 jets, with 97% of the work taking place at its East Hartford facility and to be completed in December 2028 — the project expands the company's current production efforts.

Lake Compounce will begin its annual Halloween event on the weekend of Sept.20—featuring spooky attractions and rides—to give local families a safe way to enjoy themed fun.

Dozens gathered yesterday at the State Capitol and City Hall to watch flag raisings that kicked off Hartford’s 61st Puerto Rican Parade and Festival.

The event honors Ponce—featuring a parade at noon Saturday and a festival at Bushnell Park—and shows local pride in Puerto Rican heritage.

Artist mgk will perform at Hartford’s Xfinity Theatre on June 6 in support of his new album The Lost Americana—he will join Wiz Khalifa and six other acts while ticket sales open on September 22.

UConn is building a new housing community called The Mark with about 1,350 beds near Storrs as its student body hit nearly 13,400.

The project will start later this year—one of several efforts including off-campus plans in Hartford and Stamford approved by the Board on Sept. 17.

Gov. Ned Lamont reassured immigrant families during a meeting at the Sports and Medical Sciences Academy in Hartford on Wednesday that local schools had a plan to protect students from ICE raids.

School leaders said they would follow state guidelines that share student information only when law enforcement shows a judicial warrant—supporting clear measures to keep children safe.

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection released its Final Determination for the 2025-2027 Conservation and Load Management Plan that will invest $705 million to boost energy efficiency in homes and public buildings while providing $2.35 billion in lifetime benefits. Residents and business owners can call 877-WISE-USE to schedule upgrades that average $1,129 in household savings and $35,000 for small businesses—helping lower energy bills statewide.

East Hartford will start transforming Founders Plaza into a work, live and play space—crews will begin demolition and hazardous waste cleanup within weeks.

Mayor Connor Martin said the project plans for 300 housing units, restaurants and businesses that will be fully completed by 2035.

Starting Oct. 1, 2025, Gov. Ned Lamont’s new law will ban first cousin marriages—making Connecticut one of only two New England states with such a ban.

The law does not affect sexual relations or cohabitation and aims to lower the risk of birth defects.

Former UConn head coach Jim Calhoun discussed his upcoming book—More Than a Game: How the UConn Basketball Dynasty Was Built On a Culture of Caring—in his office as he recalled key moments and lessons from his career.

The book, which highlights personal stories from his time at Dedham High, Northeastern, UConn, and St. Joseph, will be released on Oct. 7 and is already available for pre-order.

CT Horrorfest Show - 2 Day Pass

10 a.m.-7 p.m. & 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Connecticut Convention Center — Ticket pricing varies — Meet horror icons, shop themed vendors, and enjoy Q&A panels at this thrilling festival.

Hartford Girls Rock! 2025

1-3 p.m. — Hartford Marriott Downtown — Donations support scholarships — Celebrate and honor outstanding young women for their leadership and community service.

Elvis Costello & The Imposters Concert

1-4 p.m. — William H. Mortensen Hall — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the classic early songs of Elvis Costello with The Imposters backing him.

Hartford Whine and W3rk Fit Camp

7-9 p.m. — Warehouse 635 — Ticket required — Join a high-energy Caribbean dance fitness camp suitable for all fitness levels.

Area 11 Convention Preview

8 a.m. – 11 p.m. — Sheraton Hartford South Hotel — Registration required — Explore community recovery resources at the 66th Area 11 Convention.

BASWA's 25th Anniversary Celebration

3-7 p.m. — Farmington Gardens — Free venue parking — Celebrate 25 years of beauty and culture with live entertainment and local vendors.

Twenty One Pilots Live in Hartford

8:00 p.m. — Xfinity Theatre — Tickets starting at $82 — Experience the cinematic spectacle of Twenty One Pilots on their Clancy Tour: Breach 2025.

Twenty One Pilots - The Clancy Tour: Breach 2025

8:00-9:30 PM — Xfinity Theatre — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the electrifying performance of Twenty One Pilots live in Hartford.

The Notebook - The Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — William H. Mortensen Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the emotional journey of love in this captivating musical adaptation of the beloved story.

Live Music with The Boomers

6-9 p.m. — Cotton Hollow Kitchen — Free entry — Enjoy classic rock and pop hits while savoring great food and drinks.