Good morning, Springfield.

Local officials are reviewing how recent federal funding cuts will affect the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

They will report findings later this week (details on service adjustments are expected).

BusinessWest is accepting nominations for its 40 Under Forty Alumni Achievement Award that honors alumni (2007 to 2024) who continue to excel in business.

Finalists will be profiled in the June 9 issue and the honoree will be announced at the gala on June 19, with submissions due Friday, March 28.

AAA reports that gas prices in Massachusetts fell from $2.99 to $2.95 per gallon due to higher domestic gasoline supplies.

The state’s price is 12 cents lower than the national average (a drop that defies the typical spring rise).

Robots took over Springfield on Saturday and Sunday at Western New England University during the FIRST Robotics Competition where 36 teams competed and worked together on robotics challenges.

Organizers said the event is meant to excite students about robotics and STEM so they can learn important skills.

Reconstruction work is set to begin soon at the ‘X’ intersection in Springfield (MassDOT will launch a website, hotline, and email updates) and a public meeting is scheduled for early May to explain the project phases.

Massachusetts lawmakers said last week that rising health care costs, which grew 8.6% from 2022 to 2023, have strained household budgets.

They will propose new rules to regulate for-profit providers — such as private equity firms — and give regulators more control over spending.

The Springfield Thunderbirds hosted their fifth annual sensory friendly game Sunday at MassMutual Center—designed to help fans who are sensitive to loud noises and bright lights enjoy hockey—and used quieter goal horn, noise meters and cool down stations to create a safe game-day experience.

ROAR! Comedy Show featuring AJ Wilkerson

Enjoy an evening of comedy with AJ Wilkerson at The Armory in MGM Springfield.

ROAR! Comedy Featuring AJ Wilkerson

Experience an evening of laughter with comedian AJ Wilkerson at The Armory in MGM Springfield.

The Original Western Mass Home Show

12-8 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — $10 general admission, $7 with coupon — Explore innovative products and services for your home and garden.

Live Music at Great Awakening Brewing Company

5-8 p.m. — Great Awakening Brewing Co — Free entry — Enjoy live music from October Mountain Band while savoring craft beer and food in a scenic taproom.

Women’s Leadership Conference

7:30 AM – 4:30 PM — MassMutual Center — Registration required — Empowering women through knowledge, confidence, and connection in their careers.

Roar! Comedy: The Magic of Eric Eaton

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night of comedy and magic with Eric Eaton, a performer known for his sold-out tours and captivating television appearances.

Roar! Comedy: The Magic of Eric Eaton

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Experience the magic and laughter with Eric Eaton, a master illusionist and comedian.

Singles Retreat 2025: Foundation

8-10 p.m. — Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel — Registration Required — Build relationships and faith at this gathering for singles in New England.

Meet the Easter Bunny & Bluey

10:30-12:00 p.m. — The Longmeadow Shops — Free entry — Experience a joyful morning with the Easter Bunny and Bluey, perfect for families.

The Chaos Beneath Returns: Public Reading by U.S. Latino Poets

7-8 p.m. — Jones Library — Free entry — Experience an evening of captivating Latino poetry from renowned poets in an intimate setting.