Good morning, Springfield.

Recent research shows nearly 20 percent of Springfield's older adults work today, up from just over 10 percent in the 1980s.

81-year-old Sandy Miliefsky has launched community programs and fundraiser concerts—while 66-year-old Donna Lee Honeywell continues her hypnotherapy career after overcoming health challenges.

Local groups have planned a busy fall season to connect Springfield professionals and residents — the agenda features the leadership-focused Up Next Summit on Oct.

16 at MGM Springfield, Cancer Connection’s Harvest Dinner at Union Station, a Healthcare Heroes Gala in Holyoke on Oct. 22, and other events through early November.

Massachusetts recorded 78 pedestrian deaths in 2024—a 16% increase from the year before—while national fatalities declined by 4.3%, with AAA Northeast warning that high-speed driving contributed to the rise.

PeoplesBank was named the top corporate charitable contributor in Western Mass and Window World ranked number one among remodelers as Eversource earned its second Tree Line USA award. — In education, Springfield College will share a $380,000 state grant to boost teacher literacy initiatives while UMass Amherst partners with Tech Foundry to help community members complete degrees, STCC launches a new STEM studies program, and HCC Gateway to College won a national excellence award.

Officials from Springfield Symphony Hall and Mayor Domenic Sarno announced that $250,000 in funding will upgrade the historic venue—improving the production system curtains—and work will begin before upcoming performances.

Three hundred high school students gathered at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on October 8 for the MassMakes Innovation Challenge to build robots and direct remote-controlled cars that show the link between math, science, and technology.

Springfield Central High School students worked on projects that revealed how manufacturing and STEM open doors—fueling interest in future careers.

Gov. Maura Healey warned that illegal street takeovers, including coordinated drag racing and mass car rallies, will face zero tolerance after violent incidents over the weekend in several communities—State Police have been directed to work with local law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable and residents are urged to call 911 if they notice suspicious activity.

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.

MVMA Fall Continuing Education Conference

Earn 12 hours of CE — 2 days — MGM Springfield — Entry Fee Required — Enhance your professional expertise at this informative veterinary conference.

Halloween Paint & Sip

2-4 p.m. — White Lion Brewing Company — Ticket required — Enjoy a fun Halloween-themed painting experience while sipping your favorite drink.

BCI’s Sensory-Friendly Trunk-or-Treat

9:30-10:30 p.m. — Springfield Learning Center — Free entry — Enjoy a spooktacular sensory-friendly trunk-or-treat experience for families.