Good morning, Springfield.

Excel Dryer owners Denis and Nancy Gagnon were honored last week at the 15th annual Service Above Self Luncheon hosted by the Springfield Rotary Club (and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame) for their long-standing commitment to local philanthropy and U.S. manufacturing.

bankESB's fifth annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors drive raised $42,000 for local food pantries during October in Western Mass (donations were matched dollar for dollar) through its Giving Tree program that tallied $161,734.92 over five years.

Baystate Health said its staff cuts and cost-saving measures have stabilized its budget, letting it reinvest $180 million into its facilities.

The system will soon launch its Stronger Together plan as it braces for federal funding cuts next October (CEO Peter Banko explained the strategy).

The Blind Boys of Alabama will perform on their 2025 Christmas Tour at the Hope Center for the Arts Saturday, Dec.

20. The event begins at 7 p.m. and will feature classic holiday and gospel songs.

State officials launched Business Builds, a grant program that helps local businesses expand, create jobs and invest in clean energy.

Companies can apply by Feb. 4 (deadline) as the program rolls out statewide.

A study by Eos Foundation shows that expanding Breakfast in the Classroom programs can feed an extra 303,000 students and add $73 million in federal dollars for high-poverty schools statewide + Springfield Public Schools already saw breakfast participation jump from 44% to 84% while partnering with local farms.

The Hampden District Attorney’s Office presented its '1 in 11: Preventing Dating Violence' program to Dean Tech students in Holyoke on Monday to help them recognize warning signs of unhealthy relationships.

The 30-minute documentary (created in memory of Kathryn Mauke) teaches the importance of early awareness.

Local retailers offer teen gifts under $25 this Christmas to help families shop on a budget.

Stores selected a range of popular items for teens (providing choices even for picky shoppers).

Tenants at Chateau Apartments on Temple Street still face cold conditions without proper heat and hot water, even though the property manager replaced the boiler last month (workers installing it were unlicensed in state).

Officials advise tenants to follow state guidelines for assistance.

New England's Funniest Comedy Showcase

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Experience a night of big laughs and fresh voices from New England's top comics.

Harlem Globetrotters

7-8:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Tickets from $46 — Experience the unforgettable antics and incredible basketball skills of the Harlem Globetrotters.

ROAR! New Year's Eve Showcase

6-9 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket required — Enjoy a night of laughs with local comedians as you countdown to 2026.