Good morning, Springfield.

Rock 102 will host its third annual Mayflower Marathon Comedy Night on Oct.

16 at the Armory at MGM Springfield—this event will raise funds for Open Pantry Community Services with comedian Tom Cotter headlining alongside special guests Steve Nagle, Corey Gee and host Bax. Tickets will benefit the marathon and the night will include a silent auction, donation match and jersey sales to support local families in need.

WillPower Foundation, a longtime support for families with different abilities, announced a partnership with Multicultural Community Services that began on Oct.

1 when it celebrated its transition into the WillPower Fund. The change secures a $40,000 founding gift and will allow families to continue applying for grants up to $750 per year for essential needs.

MLK Jr. Family Services in Springfield has announced the recipients for the 2025 Social Justice Impact Awards—recognizing local advocates who have advanced fairness and equality.

Ocean State Job Lot is hiring full-time, part-time and seasonal employees at all 176 stores, including local locations.

The chain will host a hiring event on October 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.—interested applicants can attend on-site interviews or check the store website for openings.

On Saturday a ride will gather at 77 West Street in Springfield—cars and motorcycles will drive 40 miles to New Britain in honor of 12-year-old Jacqueline Torres, whose family members are charged with her murder.

The Dropkick Murphys are partnering with the Springfield Thunderbirds and will come to Springfield this spring—local fans can expect the band's live performance.

West Springfield Public Schools received a $300,000 check from the state on Oct.

7 for transportation, supplies, and building upgrades—funds coming from surplus revenue signed by Gov. Healey. State Rep. Mike Finn and local officials said the money will help reduce taxpayer costs while supporting school improvements.

Elms College has struck a deal with Springfield Technical Community College and Holyoke Community College to allow their students to live in its dorms — the agreement was signed on Oct.

8 at Berchmans Hall. The pact gives these students access to campus services, sets room, meal, and parking costs, and lasts until June 30, 2026 — with a chance for yearly renewal.

Memorial School in West Springfield was named a School of Recognition by the state's Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for improving test scores and attendance rates—principal Karen Albano said targeted programs and family meetings raised academic success rates.

Superintendent Stefania Raschilla praised the school's progress and plans to share its methods with other elementary schools.

The Springfield Traffic Bureau is enforcing stopping rules for school buses today — they are focusing on bus routes during pick-up and drop-off amid a rise in pedestrian crashes.

Drivers who pass a bus with its stop arm extended risk a fine of up to $250.

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.

John Caparulo Comedy Show

8-9:30 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy sharp wit and hilarious anecdotes from seasoned comedian John Caparulo.

Comedy Night with John Caparulo

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Experience sharp wit and dry humor from the seasoned comedian John Caparulo.

Massachusetts Equine Affaire

9 a.m.-7 p.m. (Thurs-Sat), 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sun) — Eastern States Exposition — Ticket prices vary — Experience four days of equine excitement, education, and entertainment with top trainers and breed showcases.

Laval Rocket vs. Springfield Thunderbirds

10:35 AM — MassMutual Center — Ticketed event — Experience the excitement of AHL hockey as the Thunderbirds host their rivals, the Laval Rocket.