Good morning, Hartford.

Charity groups in Connecticut said tens of thousands will need help for Thanksgiving as they ask for food and monetary donations.

Local agencies like Connecticut Foodshare (planning to serve 40,000 meals) and Bridgeport Rescue Mission (aiming to assist 7,000 families) urge community support.

Vicente Garcia, a professor at Central Connecticut State University, built his career using clay and steel and unique techniques for over 40 years — he uses metal, glass, feathers and even his own hair for special finishes.

He said he loves fire and will retire soon, leaving behind decades of shared art and wisdom.

A new report from New America shows that redrawing Connecticut school district boundaries could reduce segregation and funding gaps by merging smaller districts into larger ones — a change that simulated a 78% improvement in tax-base fairness and a 50% rise in racial and economic integration. Education leaders stressed that any changes would need careful planning to avoid unintended impacts on local control.

Fifth grade student Theresa Tessa Hallinan from North Haven was chosen as Connecticut's 2026 Kid Governor to support students with disabilities after winning over seven candidates—she will be sworn in at the Old State House in January to start her one-year term.

Governor Ned Lamont and First Lady Annie Lamont will host the holiday open house at the Governor’s Residence in Hartford where visitors will enjoy festive decorations and a visit from Santa Claus.

The event will take place on Dec. 5 and Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 990 Prospect Ave with free shuttle bus service from Tangiers Market.

The FDA recalled 24-centimeter Chef Brand milk pans sold by Shata Traders after tests found dangerous lead levels that could harm health — shoppers in Connecticut are advised to stop using the pans and return them to the store for a full refund.

Aetna said it must reach a deal with UConn Health in the next 10 days — without an agreement, customers who see UConn Health doctors will have to find new providers or pay more for their care.

A state cooling-off period will delay immediate changes for some customers.

On November 19, UConn lost by a score of 71 to 67 to Arizona when injured center Tarris Reed Jr. (who did not play) left the team short in the paint, and coach Dan Hurley said the loss was painful yet served as a chance to learn as the team works to get healthy for future games.

UConn receiver Skyler Bell holds the season record with 13 touchdowns and will play a key role as the Huskies meet Florida Atlantic on Saturday—his strong play has raised his profile among top receivers.

Coach Jim Mora praises Bell's steady work as UConn aims to win its ninth game this season.

CAPA Annual Book Festival

9 AM – 4 PM — West Hartford Meeting & Conference — Free entry — Explore a vibrant day with over 50 local authors sharing their stories and connecting with readers.

UConn Huskies vs. Bryant Bulldogs Basketball

6-7:30 p.m. — PeoplesBank Arena — Cost info forthcoming — Cheer on UConn as they take on Bryant in a thrilling college basketball matchup.

Memphis May Fire Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Webster — Tickets from $115 — Experience an electrifying night with Memphis May Fire in Hartford.

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Hartford Stage — Tickets required — Experience the timeless tale of redemption and festive spirit brought to life in an enchanting performance.

Magic of Lights

11:59 PM – 1:29 AM — Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field — Ticket information available — Experience a dazzling display of lights in a festive atmosphere.

Tribute to Enanitos Verdes

9:00 p.m. — Nicole's Restaurant — Tickets available — Celebrate classic rock with the iconic sounds of Enanitos Verdes.

Nutmeg's Nutcracker

12:30-2:30 p.m. — The Bushnell Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the magical holiday classic as the Nutmeg Ballet brings Clara's enchanting journey to life.

PMP Certification Bootcamp

9 AM – 5 PM — 100 Pearl Street Gallery Parking — Contact hours included — Fast-track your project management career with expert-led PMP training.

CTData Conference 2025

9 AM – 4 PM — Hartford Marriott Downtown — Registration required — Engage with leaders and learn data practices for community impact.

Jukebox Radio Live Performance

8 PM – 12 AM — Elicit Brewing Co — Cover charge may apply — Enjoy a night of non-stop hits from Post Malone to Aerosmith with a full band.