Good morning, Westport.

Over the weekend, Homes with Hope, CT Basket Brigade and volunteers delivered Thanksgiving meals to 475 local families in Westport.

The effort included 300 meals prepared by volunteers on Saturday and 175 meals picked up later, with each meal designed for a family of six + featuring turkey, pies, vegetables and more.

The Westport Library has brought back its Holiday Store with expanded tax-free shopping at the Writing Center today—supporting local merchants and library programming, and offering scarves, hats, gloves, jewelry, home decor, puzzles, games, and baby gifts available at the library cafe.

Staples High School boys soccer team won state championships and was ranked #1 after edging out St. Benedict’s Prep while alumni gained roles on Hulu and launched a new picture book that celebrates uniqueness—local updates show Tacombi near Stop and Stop is closed, a troubled house on Maple Avenue North was demolished, Dr. Allyson Maida released a book on brain function, and singer Jimmy Cliff died yesterday.

Connecticut firefighters have issued guidelines for safely deep-frying a turkey this Thanksgiving to avoid fires—cooking must be done outdoors with the turkey fully thawed and dried and set up at least 10 feet from any structure.

They also advise wearing protective gear and keeping a fire extinguisher close by—steps meant to reduce the risk of dangerous grease fires.

Tickets for Westport's 85th annual Candlelight Concert will be available from December 2 at 9 a.m., offering free admission with optional donations to support the Staples High School music program.

The holiday event—featuring more than 200 student musicians—will take place on December 12 at 8 p.m. and December 13 at 3 and 8 p.m.

The American Automobile Association predicts more New Englanders will travel this Thanksgiving with 3.64 million people expected to drive, fly, or ride trains at least 50 miles from home—numbers that beat those of 2024 and pre-pandemic 2019.

State officials and transit agencies have boosted train schedules and paused highway projects through Dec 1 to help ease the rush.

State liquor officials warned that on Thanksgiving Day, Connecticut package stores cannot sell liquor and supermarkets cannot sell beer while breweries are banned from off-site alcohol sales; bars and restaurants must serve drinks on-site — store managers may adjust holiday hours.

Local zoning rules may also impose stricter regulations.

Costco recalled two ready-to-eat Caesar salad items due to possible plastic contamination in the salad dressing.

The voluntary recall, announced November 7th, covers select stores including eight in Connecticut — customers may return the products for a full refund.

Access Health CT said that since Nov.

1, more than 120,100 residents have enrolled in a 2026 health plan — but enrollment could drop 8% if enhanced tax credits expire Dec. 31, which may lead to higher premiums as open enrollment ends Jan. 15.

UConn Health and Aetna are locked in a fight over payment rates as some doctor appointments have already been canceled and nearly 15,000 patients risk losing access if a deal is not reached by November 30.

The health system is calling for higher rates — a change needed for its expansion plans — while both sides share details from their recent negotiations.

The Connecticut Girls Soccer Coaches Association announced the 2025 all-state teams for Class LL, L, M and S to recognize top players selected during the season—marking key honors for local soccer athletes.

The selections highlight the best talent from teams across the state.

Silvermine Holiday Sale & Fundraiser

5-8 p.m. — Silvermine Arts Center — Free entry — Discover unique handmade gifts and enjoy festive fun as you kick off the holiday season.

CraftWestport 2025

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Staples High School — $0 - $13 — Explore unique crafts and artwork from 175 American artists and makers at this vibrant shopping event.

44th Annual Production of The Nutcracker

1-3 p.m. — Staples High School — $35 — Experience the joy of a timeless holiday ballet featuring talented Academy students and professional dancers.

The Nutcracker: Annual Production

2-4 p.m. — Staples High School — $35 — Experience a holiday classic performed by talented Academy students and professionals.