The Courant's Ken Gosselin comes by to spend the hour with us to talk about what he has been writing about and all things CT including housing, Hartford as a whole, and infrastructure in the state!

Ruth Fortune, a Democratic candidate for Connecticut's first congressional district, discussed her candidacy, emphasizing her background as an immigrant from Haiti and her commitment to addressing systemic barriers. She highlighted her proposal for a $25 minimum wage, arguing it would empower workers and reduce reliance on government programs. Fortune criticized the Trump administration's immigration policies as cruel and ineffective, advocating for a more inclusive approach. She also stressed the need for universal healthcare, arguing it's a right and that government intervention is necessary to ensure access. Fortune called for robust primaries within the Democratic Party to foster greater voter engagement and address long-standing issues.

Brian Shactman discusses the importance of competitive government and the need for more Republicans in Connecticut's state legislature. He interviews Liam, a 24-year-old serving on the Brookfield Zoning Board of Appeals, who developed an interest in land use and local government during high school. Liam highlights the lack of civic education on local government and the need for more young people to get involved. He also discusses the challenges of making energy affordable in Connecticut, suggesting reforms to the power procurement process and better coordination between gas and electric systems. Liam expresses interest in future state government roles.

Brian Shactman and Mike Cavanaugh discussed the growth of Division I hockey, noting UConn's 12th ranking and the popularity of the sport. Cavanaugh highlighted the impact of NHL teams moving to non-traditional areas and the ability to recruit from Canadian junior leagues. He praised his balanced team, with contributions from all four lines, and mentioned key players like Tyler Muszelik, Tom Messineo, and Joey Muldowney. Cavanaugh also touched on the Spengler Cup in Davos, Switzerland, where Muldowney is representing the US college team. Finally, he promoted the Connecticut Ice tournament, aiming to make it a significant event in Connecticut.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President Trump over the weekend. So what changed if anything with peace talks moving forward.

John Butler traveled around America and then wrote a book on what he saw. Heartland Highways: In Search of America is the name of the book and he tells us some of his fun finds including here in Connecticut.

The Courant's Dom Amore was at the Wasabi Fenway Bowl this past weekend to see UConn get whooped by Army. He talks about the experience and where UConn Football goes in the post Jim Mora Era.

Majors Donald and Paula Spencer join us to recap a historic Holiday Store to benefit the Salvation Army.

Patti Read from Goldilocks Sleep Solutions talks about the 3 Main Sleep Sabotages we do to ourselves!

Liz Ackerman is the General Manager of The Shops at Farmington Valley. She talks about a record shopping year and what to expect in the coming days.

Paddi Leshane from Sullivan and Leshane swings by the Holiday Store with a kind donation and to talk about the year.

A Staple at The Holiday Store, UNICO stops by with a donation and talks about the year they've had.

Chris Mattei from Koskoff Koskoff and Bieder joins us with a great donation for the Salvation Army.

Our Good friends Sandie Terenzi and Mike Price join us with a nice donation and to discuss the possibility of 2026 being the comeback year for Real Estate!

Nate Brown and Gregg Strede of the IUOE Local 478 join us with a very kind donation for the Salvation Army.

Greater Hartford Area Services Major Paula Spencer joins us to discuss where we are at to meet our goal!

Ozzie Palomo from Chartwell Strategy drove up to the Holiday store to make a donation and talk to long-time friend Brian Shactman.

Jhady Rios from 3-D Bail Bonds joins the Holiday Store festivities with a nice donation!

The Great Jim Bergenn and Mark Ostrowski of Shipman and Goodwin join Brian at the Holiday Store

The Fine Folks at Dutch Point Credit Union is a staple at the holiday store and they come through with another great check for the Salvation Army!