Saturday, January 17th, 2026
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ On Dr. King’s birthday, the Martin Luther King Jr Community Presbyterian Church held its first MLK Day service in its new sanctuary after the arson attack five years ago. Church leaders stressed healing and improved security while celebrating the congregation’s strength. New England Public Media
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ CRRC Massachusetts at its Springfield facility said 161 workers will be furloughed on March 16 because Customs detained railcar parts needed for subway car production — the company is working with MBTA to secure a parts release and resume operations soon. Western Mass News
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Google removed ads for pill-making machines from its Shopping page as of Thursday, Jan. 15 after a local inquiry confirmed they were still appearing (the action follows a Sept. 1 policy update meant to curb counterfeit pill production). MassLive
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Monster X Tour returns to Springfield at the MassMutual Center this weekend with shows on Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 1:30 p.m. Fans can also opt for VIP Pit Party access to see top monster trucks and meet the drivers + enjoy a unique live experience. Western Mass News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Education officials delivered the second State of the Schools address today in Springfield, outlining current challenges and future plans to support local schools. Western Mass News
- ➤ Westfield State University announced new workforce development programs launching in March to fill skill gaps in supply chain, logistics, and project management in the Pioneer Valley + Western Mass; the courses will help current workers upskill and prepare career changers for in-demand roles. BusinessWest
- ➤ Springfield Thunderbirds donated about 3,000 winter hats and gloves to students in Springfield Public Schools on Friday, Jan. 16 and will deliver additional supplies to South End Middle School on Jan. 23. The move shows the team’s commitment to community support. BusinessWest
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Massachusetts health officials reported five children have died from the flu amid very high activity, urging parents to vaccinate those over 6 months and seek immediate care for severe symptoms. Hospitalizations have already surpassed last year’s numbers and officials warn the peak is still ahead. 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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.
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Reveal the authorAbout Springfield Morning News
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