Good morning, Springfield.

The Western Mass Business Expo will be held on Oct.

8 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern in West Springfield. Sponsored by Freedom Credit Union and AVZ Promotions, the expo—bringing local businesses and community leaders together—will create valuable networking opportunities.

The Healey Administration announced on Thursday that Emergence Academy and the High School of Commerce partnered with Worcester State University to let nearly 900 students earn free college credits — the program began this spring.

Mass Health today recommended that all adults, children aged 23 months to 6 years and those at high risk get the COVID-19 vaccine—guidance issued as federal officials prepare national recommendations.

Shriners Children's New England in Springfield gave an 11-year-old Bills fan a Buffalo Bills-themed prosthetic leg to help her move freely+ her parents supported the decision after she suffered severe pain and required many surgeries.

Today the Springfield Thunderbirds announced a hire and several promotions in their business staff as they prepare for the new season.

They named Sophia Mackin as coordinator of Digital — Social Media, promoted Frank Grimaldi to director of Ticket Operations — Retention, and Steve Brousseau to senior account executive while also appointing Andrew Guam McCormic as Retail Office coordinator and Ethan Vattaso as Gameday Operations assistant.

John Cena, the WWE star and Springfield College alum, stopped at Casa Bella Italian Restaurant and Bar in Hampden before Monday Night Raw earlier this week.

He enjoyed a meal and met fans—marking his final wrestling appearance in western Massachusetts—before returning to the show.

The Avett Brothers Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Big E — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of folk rock with the harmonious sounds of The Avett Brothers.

New England Grooming Show

12 PM – 9 AM — MassMutual Center — Registration required — A must-attend event for pet professionals featuring competitions to enhance your grooming skills.

Shooting for Success

10 AM – 10 PM — Holyoke Community College — Community event — A transformative 3v3 tournament and career exploration experience empowering youth through sports.

Hypertufa Pots Workshop

5-7 p.m. — Zenful Spaces — All materials included — Create unique hypertufa containers for your garden with step-by-step guidance in this hands-on workshop.

Job Expo

4-7 p.m. — Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame — Free entry — Explore job opportunities and connect with local employers in a dynamic setting.

Spirit & Grace Tour - Springfield

7:30-9:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — $1.00 service fee — Experience a vibrant evening of entertainment during the Spirit & Grace Tour.

The Mighty Oktoberfest Celebration

5-11 p.m. — Student Prince Cafe and The Fort — Ticket includes one beer — Celebrate with authentic German food, live music, and festive atmosphere.

Girls VolleyHall Classic Elite Tournament

8 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. — American International College — $10 for adults, free for students and children — Cheer on the top 36 high school girls' volleyball teams from the Northeast in this exciting tournament.

New England Equitation Championships

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Eastern States Coliseum — Free admission — Experience five days of thrilling equestrian competition featuring top junior and adult riders.

G&LW Gem Show - West Springfield

9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — Wholesale only — Explore stunning gems and jewelry from various exhibitors in a charming New England setting.