Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield honored native NBA star Travis Best during a Dec.

22 ceremony at Central High School, where the basketball court was renamed in his honor (his career highlights include an 81-point game). Local officials and school staff celebrated his lasting impact on the community.

On Dec. 31, 2025, Thomas Sullivan’s family with Mayor Sarno and Rep. Puppolo presented a $24,875 check for a scholarship at Pope Francis Preparatory School and a $3,000 check for Westover Marines & held the ceremony at Nathan Bill’s Bar & Restaurant.

The event honored Sullivan’s legacy.

Springfield’s century-old law firm Egan, Flanagan + Cohen expanded its team by acquiring Goldsmith, Katz and Argenio effective Jan.

1, with three new attorneys joining its ranks. The firm will add Henry Cropsey on Feb. 15 to boost its expertise and mentorship for clients.

Local business and nonprofit leaders in Western Mass. shared plans for 2026 in a survey (citing challenges in brewing, education and real estate) and noted new strategies like using AI and boosting community engagement to spark growth.

Springfield law firm Egan, Flanagan & Cohen expanded by acquiring two local practices; three attorneys joined when Goldsmith, Katz & Argenio became effective on Jan.

1 and Cropsey’s practice will merge on Feb. 15.

A MGM Springfield casino player won $422,061.15 on New Year’s Eve after placing a $5 bet on Pontoon 21.

The win is among the larger jackpot payouts at the casino, which offers over 1,500 slot machines and five table games (players must be 21+).

The Springfield Regional Chamber will host the Rise & Shine Business Breakfast on Friday, Jan.

9 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Blake Student Commons at Bay Path University, where leaders from arts, culture, and recreation nonprofits will share insights to enrich community life.

Springfield Museums announced Nina Antonetti as vice president of Advancement effective Jan.

2 to lead fundraising, marketing, and special events under CEO Kay Simpson. She brings over 20 years of senior leadership experience in nurturing cultural institutions (including museums and educational programs).

The Boar’s Head Festival will be held from Jan.

9–11 at Trinity United Church in Springfield. The event, inspired by a medieval Epiphany celebration, will feature music, dance, animals, and interactive experiences (tickets available online).

Massachusetts gaming regulators reported Caesars Sportsbook accepted 88 credit card wagers between Oct.

15 and Oct. 28 — a self-reported error officials say may breach state law. An adjudicatory hearing has not been scheduled as Caesars works to fix the software issue.

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.