Springfield
Morning News
Friday, January 16th, 2026
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Forest Park Zoo received $41,092 in donations including matching funds from the Anthony M. and Lea Scibelli Charitable Foundation in December to support winter animal care; the zoo remains closed to visitors but will open in late March. MassLive
- ➤ The Indian Orchard Citizens Council is transforming the 1897 fire station at Oak and Berkshire streets into a community center with plans to open in 2027—adding flexible space for youth, senior programs and local services as fundraising efforts continue. MassLive
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A $5 bet on the MoneyBall slot at MGM Springfield on Jan. 10 turned into a jackpot win of $13,264.33. The casino, which paid over $100 million in jackpots in 2025, requires players to be 21 or older. MassLive
- ➤ A Springfield woman fulfilled a childhood dream when A Taste of Tradition opened on Thursday in the city's (Indian Orchard) neighborhood. The restaurant offers a mix of family recipes inspired by Southern, Cuban, Syrian, and American traditions. Western Mass News
- ➤ Flynn Law Title & Escrow announced a merger with attorney Christine Webster, who will join the firm while keeping her West Springfield office open to serve clients uninterrupted. The merger will expand Flynn Law’s real estate services in Greater Springfield. BusinessWest
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ On January 7, authorities seized 315 animals including goats and cows + wildlife from Cloa’s Ark sanctuary on Lawrence Plain Road in Hadley, and the owner's attorney said his client cooperated with officials as the investigation continues. Western Mass News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Susan Collins, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, will be the keynote speaker for Outlook 2026 on Friday, Mar. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MassMutual Center + local business and civic leaders will meet to gain insights on economic trends. BusinessWest
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Math Alive! will launch at the Springfield Science Museum on Saturday, Jan. 24 to offer interactive math experiences such as digital snowboard races + creative challenges. The exhibit is free with museum admission and aims to spark STEM interest in kids. BusinessWest
- ➤ Tech Foundry graduated its fall 2025 cohort on Jan. 13 in Springfield after an 18-week IT support training that included classroom work, a month-long internship, and earning Google IT support certificates. Graduates and local leaders praised the program for opening entry-level tech opportunities. BusinessWest
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Open burning season started Thursday as local fire departments remind residents to obtain a permit, keep 75 feet away from any building, and burn only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (open burning is banned in Springfield). Western Mass News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ City Councilor Gerald Martin expressed disappointment when legal concerns led the city to reject an eminent domain proposal to preserve 18 acres at 90 Wendover Road for open space in East Forest Park near local schools — a missed chance to block a planned housing subdivision by developer Thomas Bretta. MassLive
- ➤ City officials approved two grants totaling $400,000 to prepare the 2.5-acre site at 140 Wilbraham Ave for future reuse. The grants will fund engineering and environmental testing — local councils are working together to shape the redevelopment. MassLive
- ➤ The Springfield Community Preservation Committee is accepting applications from residents, business owners, and nonprofits for Community Preservation Act funds to support affordable housing, preserve open space, enhance outdoor recreation, and maintain historic sites (funded by a 1.5% city tax surcharge). (Applications are due Feb. 26.) MassLive
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Springfield health officials said low flu vaccination rates in Hampden County are a major concern amid very high statewide flu activity (with 66 flu deaths reported including four children) and urged residents to get shots at local pharmacies or through their doctors. MassLive
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Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins at Springfield Thunderbirds
3:05 – 4:35 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement as local hockey action heats up with the Thunderbirds facing off against the Penguins.
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Belleville Senators vs. Springfield Thunderbirds
6:05-8:05 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting AHL game as the Thunderbirds battle for victory on home ice.
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ROAR! Comedy Featuring Lara Beitz
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising comedy star Lara Beitz, known for her appearances on top shows and her electrifying performances.
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Winter Crow Roost Observation
2-6 p.m. — Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary — Registration required — Observe thousands of crows gathering for their winter roost while learning about these intelligent birds.
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ROAR! Comedy: Dylan Carlino
8-9:30 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night filled with laughter from the hilariously unique comedian Dylan Carlino.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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