Good morning, Springfield.

UMass announced a food drive competition that will take place later this week to support local food banks — the event invites students and staff to donate nonperishable items and compete for rewards.

Residents have complained that noise, trash and chaotic traffic have increased in the Pine Point neighborhood since EMBR opened its cannabis dispensary at the corner of Fargo Street and Boston Road 11 months ago—leading parents to avoid letting their children walk to bus stops.

About 35 people gathered at Balliet School Wednesday as City Councilor Lavar Click-Bruce organized a meeting with police and EMBR to find solutions.

Six Flags New England in Agawam will hold Halloween events for two more weekends as it ends its season on Nov.

9—offering Fright Fest and Kids Boo Fest with park hours from noon to 10 p.m.—and it will give free tickets to active military, veterans and first responders on the final weekend.

MGM Resorts International sold its Northfield Park Casino in Ohio earlier this week and said its regional casinos such as Springfield help drive business to its Las Vegas properties and build BetMGM.

The company said it will keep its Springfield site active for future growth.

A recent WalletHub study ranked Massachusetts as the best state for jobs—highlighting its strong market, high median incomes, and robust worker protections—and noted that available jobs increase by about 2.4% each year.

Dictionary.com announced 6-7 as its official Word of the Year, and local librarians said the slang term—used to mean 'so-so,' 'this or that,' or an exclamation—has become popular among children.

They explained that the word was chosen based on online searches, headlines, and social media trends.

American International College will host its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on November 12 at 11 a.m. in the Campus Center Auditorium to honor military-connected students—attendees will hear a keynote from attorney Don Andrejczyk and a ceremony recognizing graduating veterans.

The college will also participate in a national webinar on November 5 where Associate Professor Terry Lynn will discuss credit for prior learning for veterans.

Governor Healey said her administration will help families who rely on SNAP benefits as funding is set to end tomorrow due to the federal shutdown.

The state will also release $4M from its Emergency Food Assistance Program—supporting local food banks and pantries while urging organizations to share surplus food.

Some Western Mass dentists are turning patients away for emergency work because BeneCare has delayed payments and omitted patient records—dental offices say this disrupts care and could force them to close.

MassHealth said it will switch to DentaQuest to ensure providers receive payments on time and patients get the treatment they need.

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.

A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets on sale now — Experience a night of unforgettable music and stories with A.J. Croce's latest tour.

Jeff Dye Performance

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic flair of Jeff Dye live in Springfield.

Sweater Weather Paint & Pick Your Sip

6-8 p.m. — White Lion Brewing Company — Ticket required — Cozy up for a painting evening with included drinks and good vibes.

ROAR! Comedy: Frank Santos Jr.

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Free entry — Laugh the night away with Frank Santos Jr.'s hilarious comedy show.