SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The Springfield community is taking part in a new year celebration with a professional twist. Locals got the chance to network with small business owners and entrepreneurs duringthe 5th annual 'New Year Better Us' celebration in Springfield. The event also raises funds for high school seniors, awarding three students with scholarships. Professionals also got to enjoy entertainment and leave with new insights. CEO Regina Hudson told 22News, "So we're hoping that they gain a lot of advice so we do have a panel going on tonight, learning from each other, gaining connections, more resources." One of the groups on the panel Friday evening was the Springfield Regional Chamber. Local News Headlines Supreme Court Upholds NationwideTiktok Ban Girl Scout Cookie sales begin across western Massachusetts Nation’s top high school athletes showcase talent at Hoophall Classic in Springfield, day 2 of tournament Baseball fans remember hall-of-famer Bob Uecker at 90 WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.