Good morning, Norwalk.

Miguel Cardona, former U.S. education secretary, will lead Connecticut’s new Career Pathways Commission to create a five-year strategic plan for workforce development, Gov. Ned Lamont announced Thursday.

The volunteer commission (comprising leaders from education and industry) will submit a draft report by Dec. 31.

Norwalk-based Spinnaker Real Estate Partners bought two parcels in Westport on March 13, including 606 Riverside Ave with existing businesses, and will meet local stakeholders to shape a project that meets community needs + market realities.

Norwalk’s SoNo Collection is for sale.

The mall spans 12 acres and 738,800 sqft of leasable space near I-95 and houses anchors Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, though vacancies remain after 2025 closures (Pinstripes and Yardhouse) as JLL Capital Markets notes its robust retail mix.

Last month, the SoNo Collection mall in Norwalk went up for sale by investors seeking to cash in on its solid performance amid a shifting retail market.

City officials said the mall on Water Street near Interstate 95 will remain operational + continue serving as a community hub.

UConn men's basketball begins its Final Four run today in Indianapolis, matching up against Illinois this evening.

The Huskies rely on Tarris Reed Jr.'s record-setting play (scoring, rebounds, and low-post work) as head coach Dan Hurley guides the team toward a national title.

Solo Ball struggled with a wrist injury that lowered his 3-point rate from 41.4% to 29.2% this season, yet he contributed defensively and created space in UConn’s Final Four run last week & proved valuable despite the pain.

UConn men’s and women’s teams reached the Final Four, sparking excitement and bittersweet traditions among local fans.

Carol McKenzie, a long-time supporter, plans to attend the women’s game in Phoenix while sharing cherished memories & hopes for another championship run.

Northeast Cultural Festival

7 PM — La Bonita — Ticket info available — Enjoy LUZ ROJA Y IMPACTO NORTEÑO in an exciting night of cultural music.

Artsy Thursday

Time TBA — Marvin Children's Center — Free entry — Get creative with fun family art activities at this engaging event.

Hail The Sun Concert

7-9 p.m. — District Music Hall — Cost info not provided — Experience the progressive post-hardcore sounds of Hail The Sun live in Norwalk.

Grupo Miramar Live Concert

7 p.m. — La Bonita — Ticket required — Experience the vibrant sounds of Grupo Miramar in a lively Norwalk venue.