Good morning, Springfield.

BusinessWest is accepting nominations for its 18th annual Difference Makers awards that honor local people and groups making a positive impact on our community, and submissions are due by Dec.

22.

The Latino Book Fair will return to Springfield on November 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Union Station—doubling last year’s author turnout from the Mason Square Library.

The free event will also feature live music by the Springfield Conservatory of the Arts vocal group Revolution and workshops celebrating Latino heritage.

On Monday, the City of Springfield held its annual Puerto Rican flag raising ceremony at City Hall to honor Puerto Rican Heritage Month—Mayor Sarno and local officials participated and announced the flag will fly all month—underscoring the city’s diverse heritage.

Springfield’s 52 Sumner will host a busy winter lineup with events including the Pawzaar Craft Fair on Nov.

8, YPS Friendsgiving on Nov. 20, and live music on Nov. 23, Dec. 9, Dec. 13, and Dec. 19 — a mix of public and private shows designed to keep tickets low and unite community members.

Business confidence in Massachusetts fell in October as the AIM Index dropped by 1 point to 46.5 amid problems from the federal shutdown, rising prices, and tariff uncertainty—marking eight straight months below optimism.

The index was also 9 points lower than in October last year, showing that employers remain worried about current business conditions.

The government shutdown has threatened Head Start programs in Springfield, Chicopee and Holyoke after the November 1 federal funding did not arrive.

Head Start CEO Nicole Blais said state supplemental funds are being used temporarily to keep 600 children in preschool—if the shutdown continues, many programs will close and leave working parents without childcare.

Springfield launched an emergency food drive Monday to help residents who rely on SNAP benefits — funding ran out over the weekend as the government shutdown continued.

Springfield announced retired Police Department deputy chief Elmer J.

McMahon as the Veteran of the Year on Monday to honor his volunteer work after serving in Vietnam. The city will hold a Veterans Day parade and wreath laying ceremony next Tuesday at 11 a.m. to celebrate his service.

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.