Good morning, Springfield.

Big Y’s annual Sack Hunger campaign delivered 1 million meals to food banks, supporting four regional centers and nearly 1,500 local agencies through customer donations + in-store contributions during the holiday season.

Fitch Ratings affirmed Baystate Health’s credit rating at A+ today but noted a negative outlook as the provider controls 65% of the inpatient market with a 3.2% profit margin, and operating profits are expected to increase to 5% in fiscal 2026 and to 7% from fiscal 2027.

Local designers from Springfield and nearby areas are turning to slow fashion by using reclaimed fabrics and hosting small runway shows as part of a growing trend, with hubs like Paper City Fabric offering donated textiles & affordable styles to support sustainability.

Noah Kahan added a new Fenway Park show on July 7 after long queues during presale — presale began Feb.

12 at 1 p.m. ET and general sale started today at Noon, expanding his 2026 Great Divide Tour for more local fans.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra presents ‘Planet Earth: A Symphonic Journey’ as part of a Valentine’s Day program, with debut film and symphony pairing taking place this Saturday while Word Nerd Emily Brewster defines love; also, The Iron Horse in Northampton launches its ‘Playing It Forward’ campaign to enhance community music programming.

Monson Savings Bank is hosting a free Homebuying 101 workshop at Red Rose Pizzeria on March 12 from 6 to 9 p.m., where experts will share tips and offer free parking, refreshments (and appraisal fee discounts) to help community members begin homeownership.

Local EMT students attended a practical CPR training course on Thursday at American Medical Response’s training lab in Springfield (Day One milestone) as instructor Jason Melendez said knowing CPR boosts community safety.

A Western Mass News investigation shows that professional tattoo kits can be bought online for $26 without any age verification, raising concerns among local tattoo artists and health officials about infection risks (Mass law mandates buyers be 18).

Amazon confirmed receiving the test kit and said it will review the listing for potential violations.

Longmeadow boys hockey have maintained an eight-game unbeaten streak with wins over teams including Amherst and West Springfield and they prepare to face Ludlow at Olympia Rink at 8:30 p.m. Thursday’s finale will honor the four seniors on the team (Matthew Zippin, Hensch, Cross, and D’Angelo).

Springfield Thunderbirds vs Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins Game

7:00-9:05 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Cost info not provided — Catch the action live with the Springfield Thunderbirds taking on the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Ally the Piper Performance

7-10 p.m. — 52 Sumner — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Experience the viral sensation blending modern rock and Celtic influences through the Great Highland bagpipe.

Joe Bonamassa Live in Concert

8-10 p.m. — Symphony Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa performing live with unmatched energy.

Ray Lau Comedy Show

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with unique and relatable humor from Ray Lau, a rising star in standup comedy.

Providence Bruins vs Springfield Thunderbirds

6:05-7:05 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Stream available — Catch the exciting clash between the Bruins and Thunderbirds live on FloHockey.

Big Irish Jay's Comedy Night

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Experience the charm of stand-up comedy with Big Irish Jay, a favorite among comedy enthusiasts.

Run To End Homelessness 5K10K Walk/Run

10 AM – 12 PM — Old Monkey House — Registration fee applies — Participate in a 5K or 10K walk/run to support efforts to end homelessness.