Good morning, Springfield.

BusinessWest is accepting nominations for its 20th annual 40 Under Forty awards in Springfield, honoring young professionals for career success and community service.

Nominations must be submitted online by Tuesday, Feb. 24 to recognize Western Mass talent.

Holyoke Chicopee Springfield Head Start has added Monalisa Smith and Maritza Sostre as policy council members (for the 2025-26 term) to guide program decisions in Springfield.

The council will work with local families to ensure the program meets community needs.

Western Massachusetts leaders in education and economic development met with Labor Secretary Lauren Jones and state Sen. Jake Oliveira at a summit to explore paid internships and apprenticeships that bridge higher education and workforce needs, highlighting a plan to power local economic growth.

Governor Healey denounced the federal cancellation of over $5 million in mental health and substance use disorder grants on Wednesday — the cuts, effective immediately, affect suicide prevention, psychosis prevention, and drug misuse programs.

The Department of Public Health and Mental Health were notified.

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.

Winter Crow Roost Observation

2-6 p.m. — Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary — Registration required — Observe thousands of crows gathering for their winter roost while learning about these intelligent birds.

ROAR! Comedy: Dylan Carlino

8-9:30 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night filled with laughter from the hilariously unique comedian Dylan Carlino.