Good morning, Springfield.

Monson Savings Bank donated $10,000 to Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services' Emergency Food Pantry today—this support helps keep the pantry stocked and available for Springfield families facing food insecurity.

A Monson resident was named as judge for the world’s biggest canine competition and will oversee the contest soon—organizers plan to share more details.

In Springfield, the Hampden District Attorney’s Office donated $20K to Michael J.

Dias Foundation for Christian and Brian’s House— a sober living community in Forest Park that honors Brian Metzger and Christian Diaz, who lost their lives to overdoses in 2015 and 2018.

Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts will host its annual Sneaker Soirée on Oct.

9 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Springfield Country Club in West Springfield. Guests in party attire and sneakers will enjoy a silent auction — hors d’oeuvres, a wine pull, and remarks from coaches, with proceeds funding program scholarships.

Springfield officials announced that one entrance to Blunt Park on Roosevelt Avenue will be closed beginning Monday for renovations—this change will affect access to the walking track, fitness equipment, and softball diamonds until the improvements are complete.

Clutter Doctor Inc. will celebrate its 25th anniversary on Nov.

5 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Next Level Cowork in Agawam — the event will include light fare, refreshments, and award presentations, with founder Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman hosting the celebration.

The Western Massachusetts Literacy Collaborative received a $190,000 grant from the Healey-Driscoll administration and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to help colleges and schools train teachers and improve student reading.

The grant will pay for teacher training and an evaluation—led by Elms College and partner institutions—and support summer tutoring programs for elementary and middle school students.

Daniel Casey, a West Springfield High School senior, spent 10 weeks this summer at bootcamp where he learned discipline and gained a new perspective.

His parents nominated him for the Gary Rome Auto Group Surprise Squad Super Student award – he received a $1,000 scholarship and car wash membership as he prepares for college at Bridgewater State University.

Residents in Springfield worry about rising heating bills as fall temperatures drop, and Valley Opportunity Council has launched a heating assistance program to help all eligible residents.

The program starts November 1 and will accept applications until April 30—so far, 4,000 applications have been received.

Six Springfield Police sergeants promoted last week received their pins at a ceremony at Springfield City Hall on Wednesday — an event attended by Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers and Mayor Domenic Sarno.

Sgt. Robert Carter said he was ready to begin his new duties.

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.

ROAR! Comedy Featuring Neema Naz

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy an evening of laughter with Iranian-Canadian stand-up comedian Neema Naz.

Plantella: A Houseplant Expo

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — MassMutual Center — VIP Tickets: $20 | General Admission: $10 — Explore the best of houseplants and related businesses from the Northeast.