Good morning, Springfield.

Amelia Park Children's Museum will host the Penguin Plunge on Saturday, Jan.

24 at 1 p.m. at Hampton Ponds State Park in Westfield to raise funds for the museum, with check-in beginning at 11:30 a.m. and contests offering cash prizes and costume awards.

The Healey-Driscoll administration announced nearly $190,000 in grants today to boost outdoor recreation access for low-income, disabled residents, and communities of color.

Nineteen organizations received funding, with six Western Mass recipients (like Camp Chesterfield in Chesterfield) and (Clapp Park ice programs in Pittsfield) among those awarded.

SCORE Massachusetts and Rhode Island announced free online workshops this January to help local entrepreneurs start a business and hire employees.

The series runs on Jan. 6 at 6 p.m., Jan. 13 at 6 p.m., and Jan. 14 at 11 a.m. (covering basics, concepts and employment law).

BusinessWest is accepting nominations for its 20th annual 40 Under Forty awards to honor local young professionals for their career achievements and community service.

Submissions for the class of 2026 will be due Thursday, Mar. 5 in the region.

Hampshire Regional High School's girls varsity basketball team honored Maddie Schmidt—a Southampton teen who died three years ago from brain cancer—during Friday night’s basketball game.

The team unveiled new warmup shirts bearing her name and those of loved ones as a heartfelt tribute.

Tax preparers at 413 Multiservice in Indian Orchard explain new rules that let seniors claim an extra $6,000 deduction and tip workers pay taxes only on part of their tips.

Tax season begins Jan. 28 and locals should start gathering documents to maximize refunds.

Baystate Medical Center delivered the first child of 2026 for Oriana and Chad Richburg as their newborn, Lincoln Micah Richburg (born at 12:55 a.m., weighing 8.6 lbs and measuring 20 inches), arrived a little earlier than expected and promises a memorable New Year’s start.

The Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts will hold a free webinar on Friday, Jan.

9 at noon to discuss what the proposed online casino gambling law H.4431 may mean for community health. Experts from Northeastern Law, the state health office, and the legislature will answer questions during a live Q&A session.

Local mechanic Randy Allen, with 35 years of experience, shared winter car survival tips today and advised drivers to check fluid levels (gas, antifreeze, oil), tire pressure and wiper function while cleaning off ice.

He recommended a 10 to 15 minute warm-up and twice-yearly maintenance appointments to keep cars running.

Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins at Springfield Thunderbirds

3:05 – 4:35 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement as local hockey action heats up with the Thunderbirds facing off against the Penguins.

Belleville Senators vs. Springfield Thunderbirds

6:05-8:05 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting AHL game as the Thunderbirds battle for victory on home ice.

ROAR! Comedy Featuring Lara Beitz

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising comedy star Lara Beitz, known for her appearances on top shows and her electrifying performances.