We're opening today with the Yankee Institute, which just launched a new comprehensive database of every public labor contract in the state, and how it can help you and your elected leaders better understand how they impact our communities and economy.

Then we're going to have an energized conversation with the new CEO of one of the state's oldest human services agencies, the Children's Center of Hamden. We'll learn how this new, vibrant agency leader is thinking outside the box, while helping established staff, students, and clients stay safe while benefiting from all the Center's services.

And we'll close on another critical subject involving our kids and the state's workforce - as we welcome a representative from Connecticut's Office of Early Childhood, talking about a brand new partnership with the Women's Business Development Council - laser focusing on protecting, enhancing, and sustaining our fragile network of childcare centers.

We're going to help gently bend you into better shape with Connecticut's Yoga In Our City movement, and let you know how you can tap into free virtual yoga classes to stay in shape and achieve peace of mind from the comfort of your home while gearing up for the 2021 season of outdoor community yoga classes designed by Civic Mind - and sponsored by ConnectiCare.

Then it's time for some really big news as we introduce the new executive director and get a sneak peek at what's in store for the 2021 International Festival of Arts & Ideas, which is ramping up its predominantly virtual festival May 14 - June 27, offering over 200 events — with 8 out of 10 available for free!

And we're circling back to Operation Hope - zeroing in on this nonprofit's efforts to help educate state residents who may be at risk of losing their home due to foreclosure - and we'll chat with Senator Tony Hwang about how he is supporting that effort at home, and in the statehouse.

Halloween in a COVID world stands to be one of the potentially scariest holidays and it will be upon us soon. So where do you stand on celebrating - trick or treating - or maybe just taking a pass on Halloween 2020. We'll help you figure it out with a mom and medical authority from PhysicianOne Urgent Care.

Then we'll get some sobering news - and maybe a little spark of hope - as we touch base with the CT Center for Economic Analysis. We'll get the latest low down on jobs and household income growth, how they are being impacted by the pandemic, and how legalized cannabis could go far toward propelling Connecticut out of the sorry economic state we're find ourselves in right now.

Finally, we'll hear from the Beardsley Zoo's lead educator on MonarchWatch - and learn a little bit about this important environmental partnership that puts everyday folks like you to work helping protect and sustain the world's endangered Monarch butterfly population.