Good morning, Hartford.

Mohegan Sun in Uncasville received the 2026 Together, We Can Innovation Award earlier this month for partnering with the Governor's Prevention Partnership to curb underage drinking and substance abuse.

The casino's efforts include youth mentoring and education to support prevention work in Southeast Connecticut.

Middletown bakery NoRA Cupcake Company, a local favorite for nearly 15 years, announced its closure on Facebook Wednesday night and will operate until Halloween (Oct.

31) so locals can share a final treat before it closes.

Actress Anika Noni Rose returned to her hometown in Bloomfield on Thursday for a book signing at CREC Ana Grace Academy of the Arts (she promoted her book that celebrates diversity and encourages literacy among young readers).

West Hartford Adult Education hosted a family literacy event on Oct.

21 at Charter Oak International Academy — where the Read to Grow Bookmobile, local libraries and social services offered free books, bubbles and fun activities to support the English for Families and Futures program.

Connecticut State Education Department hired Kathleen Reiser as a special education attorney on Wednesday to improve a complaint process that has long troubled parents; Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker said her background (special education law and dispute resolution) will strengthen the system.

At CT State Community College Tunxis, students rely on free short-term counseling and telehealth support as the campus began this fall with no in-person wellness counselors (staffing gaps are common among community colleges).

The college is actively filling these positions to meet growing mental health needs.

Environmental activists in Hartford are urging the state to phase out fossil fuels from the Capitol Area System that heats 15 government and private buildings.

Sierra Club Connecticut will host a walk (2-4 p.m.) on Saturday, Oct. 24 to promote a switch to cleaner geothermal energy.

A new Connecticut law passed on Oct.

1 lets residents install plug-in solar panels under 1,200 watts without notifying utilities, but local officials remain uncertain as building and fire codes (set to ensure safety) are still being reviewed. Buyers should check local guidelines before purchase.

Ned Lamont and Ryan Fazio will debate tonight at WFSB studios — the live event will let residents hear each candidate's views.

West Hartford pediatric dentist Dr. Dante Paolino has introduced a build-your-own toothbrush kit that lets kids customize their brush inspired by LEGO and Crocs.

His venture Babsy took second place at a local competition on Oct. 13 — and has already sold about $50,000 worth of kits.

Mortgage rates eased this week as the average 30-year fixed-rate dropped to 7.32% from 7.40%, offering slight relief to homebuyers facing high borrowing costs.

Freddie Mac noted that 15-year rates also dipped following a softening in Treasury yields.

Braylon Mullins and Silas Demary Jr. were named to Jay Bilas’ preseason All-America list, signaling their rising success as UConn prepares for a busy season.

Their achievement boosts regional basketball pride + could inspire more local fans.