Good morning, Norwalk.

Residents in East Norwalk expressed frustration after a large oak tree at Cemetery Street and Gregory Blvd was removed on Dec.

1 for CTDOT drainage work tied to a local development. The project, linked to the contentious Mill Pond redevelopment approved in 2022, has spurred a call for improved communication.

Connecticut launched its new online store MerchCT (offering pizza, oyster and basketball-themed merchandise) on Thursday.

The move follows a viral pizza campaign that boosted the state's national reputation.

Federal and state officials announced on Dec.

5 nearly $12M in grants to fund 36 projects that will improve water quality and restore habitats in the Long Island Sound watershed, with 11 Connecticut groups receiving about $3.4M for work on riparian buffers, fish passages, and marsh restoration.

Connecticut shelters serving homeless veterans say the VA is not increasing funding as required under a new law that doubles reimbursements while heating and food costs rise; lawmakers have asked VA Secretary Doug Collins to raise rates by Friday (as temperatures drop) to help cover expenses.

Connecticut public health officials defended vaccinating all newborns against hepatitis B within 24 hours (a 34-year practice) after a federal panel recommended limiting shots to babies whose parents test positive, saying the policy best shields infants in homes and day care.

Connecticut home sales fell 12% in November while condo and townhouse transactions help keep the state on track for a year-end gain.

Norwalk increased listings by 120 from last year with sales up 6%—showing modest local progress.

Jovana Popovic, aged 17 from Serbia who debuted on the national team this summer, will join UConn women's basketball next season after playing at the Nike Hoop Summit in Portland on Apr.

12. Coach Geno Auriemma praised her scoring ability and leadership on court.

Sean and Pete will go live on The Meat Grinder Podcast today to recap the CIAC quarterfinals and preview the semifinal matchups in Connecticut high school football.

Their live discussion will offer local sports insights from experienced reporters.

Holiday Family Concert

6-8 p.m. — District Music Hall — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy a festive concert featuring Grammy winner Lisa Fisher to support local youth organizations.

BubbleMania! with Casey Carle

3:00 – 4:00 p.m. — Norwalk Public Library — Free entry — Experience the captivating arts of bubble-making filled with comedy and music for the whole family.