Good morning, Hartford.

Connecticut drivers were warned of increased deer crashes last fall after 387 incidents occurred during the mating season—AAA advises motorists to scan road shoulders as deer may dash out from wooded areas.

Hartford has several programs that help college-bound students (first-generation) with applications, financial aid, and mentoring to ease the transition to college.

One key resource is Hartford Promise, which offers up to $100,000 in scholarships over four years (a benefit for public school students), providing crucial financial support.

Citizen scientist Alton Spencer from Danbury shared his tips for photographing Comet Lemmon by urging viewers to find dark, high spots away from city lights and use a camera or binoculars.

The comet is now visible before sunrise and after sunset and will make a close flyby on Oct. 21—experts say it will peak in brightness later in October.

On Oct 16, Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves told the Appropriations Committee that without state action, tens of thousands of households may lose food and energy subsidies—changes to SNAP and LIHEAP will impose new work requirements and reduce benefits, including a $100 monthly cut for some. The briefing emphasized that these shifts come as federal guidelines under H.R. 1 alter program eligibility and resource allocation.

Health experts and officials testified at a Department of Consumer Protection hearing this week about new plans for regulating kratom products.

They warned that treating natural kratom and synthetic 7-OH alike—despite 7-OH posing risks similar to potent drugs—could lead to harmful outcomes for those managing addiction.

On October 15, a screening of the film Midas by local filmmaker TJ Noel-Sullivan was held at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford and sparked a panel on health insurance problems.

Former Cigna executive Wendell Potter and healthcare advocates recounted issues such as denied needed care—citing delays and high costs—while urging reform in the industry.

UConn is hosting the Inside UConn Hoops experience today at 10:30 a.m. where fans can tour the training center and join a Q&A with coach Dan Hurley and players—tickets cost $200 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Preseason numbers show UConn is ranked No. 4 and ready to chase a championship while other Connecticut teams such as Yale, Quinnipiac, Sacred Heart, Fairfield, Central Connecticut and New Haven face varied challenges for the 2025-26 season.

Projections from KenPom and others list key players like Malachi Smith and Nick Townsend to watch — setting clear goals for the upcoming year.

Yesterday, the Hartford Wolf Pack dropped the puck to begin their season at PeoplesBank Arena.

Hartford Symphony Orchestra - Beethoven and Sibelius

3-6 p.m. — The Bushnell Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the majestic sounds of Beethoven and Sibelius performed live by the Hartford Symphony Orchestra.

English Performance

7:30 PM — TheaterWorks Hartford — Ticket details available — Enjoy a captivating evening of theater in Hartford.

Pierce The Veil - Tour 2025

6:30-8 p.m. — Xfinity Theatre — Ticket required — Experience a legendary rock performance from the iconic band Pierce The Veil.

Sicard Hollow Live Performance

9 PM - 12 AM — Arch Street Tavern — $15 — Enjoy a night of Nashville's psychedelic punk-grass music with Sicard Hollow.

Yacht Lobsters Band Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Infinity Music Hall — Tickets available — Enjoy the buttery Soft Rock hits of the 70's and 80's with the Yacht Lobsters.

Power of the Pause Celebration

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Mandell JCC — Free entry — Celebrate midlife with awareness, self-care, community, and fun.

An Evening with Jeremy Jordan

3:00-4:30 p.m. — William H. Mortensen Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the remarkable talent of Jeremy Jordan as he shines on stage with his best performances.

UConn vs. Michigan State Basketball

7:30-9 p.m. — PeoplesBank Arena — $ — UCONN Men's Basketball takes on Michigan State in an exciting showdown at the new arena.

English - A Theatrical Experience

1-5 p.m. — TheaterWorks Hartford — Tickets from $180 — Immerse yourself in the drama and captivating performances of English live on stage.

Connecticut Association for Healthcare at Home Annual Conference

9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Hartford Marriott Downtown — Check official website for entry fees — Engage with healthcare leaders and explore innovations in home healthcare.