Connecticut News Advisory, 8:30 am

Good morning. Here's a look at how AP's general news coverage is shaping up in Connecticut.

Questions about today's coverage plans are welcome and can be directed to Mike Melia at 860-246-6876 or [email protected]. New England News Editor Bill Kole can be reached at 617-357-8100 or [email protected]. New England Photo Editor Bill Sikes is reachable at 617-357-8106 or [email protected].

For up-to-the minute information on AP's coverage, visit Coverage Plan at newsroom.ap.org.

A reminder that this information is not for publication or broadcast, and these coverage plans are subject to change. Expected stories may not develop, or late-breaking and more newsworthy events may take precedence. Advisories and digests will keep you up to date. All times are Eastern.

Some TV and radio stations will receive shorter versions of the stories below, along with all updates.

TOP STORIES:

MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION-NORTHEAST

Some Northeastern states are regrouping on legalizing recreational marijuana after a year when it was a priority for several governors, but legislative efforts stalled and a vaping illness stirred new concerns. By Jennifer Peltz. SENT: 950 words, photos.

WOODWARD-HEXCEL

Woodward and Connecticut-based Hexcel are merging in an all-stock deal that would create one of the largest suppliers in the aerospace and defense industry. The companies say the tie-up will allow them to create more efficient aircraft that will reduce emissions, a big hurdle for the aerospace industry. By Michelle Chapman. SENT: 340 words.

IN BRIEF:

— HOTEL HOMICIDE: Hartford police are investigating the death of a man found unresponsive in a second-floor room of a city hotel with what authorities described as trauma to his head and face. SENT.

SPORTS:

BULLS-CELTICS

The Chicago Bulls visit the Boston Celtics. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos. Game starts at 7:30 p.m.

BRUINS-FLYERS

The Boston Bruins visit the Philadelphia Flyers. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos. Game starts at 7 p.m.

ISLANDERS-RANGERS

The New York Islanders look for their third win in four games as they visit the Rangers in the teams' first meeting of the season, and the first of three meetings in nine days. The Rangers are also looking for their third win in four games. By Vin A. Cherwoo. UPCOMING: 799 words, photos. Game starts at 7 p.m.

___

If you have photos of regional or statewide interest, please send them to the AP state photo center in New York, 888-273-6867. For access to AP Newsroom and other technical issues, contact AP Customer Support at [email protected] or 877-836-9477.

If you have photos of regional or statewide interest, please send them to the New York Photo Desk at 888-273-6867, via FTP or via email to [email protected].