Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of April.
Good morning, Springfield.
Officials for Clinical and Support Options Inc. broke ground yesterday on a $20 million supportive housing project (775 Worthington St.) that will give 36 vulnerable residents safe apartments with full services; construction will take just over a year and is funded by federal, state, city, and private dollars.
Target confirmed that a new store will open at Springfield Crossing on the former Eastfield Mall site at Boston Road—½ mile east of Parker Street and Highway 21, and the store will cover about 128,000 square feet.
The company said more details on the tailored shopping experience and grand opening will be shared as the launch approaches while it joins La-Z-Boy and other businesses already under construction.
Edward Wright spent over 40 years in prison for a murder he did not commit until his 1985 conviction was overturned on April 11 after new DNA tests and hidden evidence were revealed; a press conference will be held today to explain the next steps for his release.
Springfield organizers announced that Pride weekend will start with a flag raising at City Hall and a youth community panel on June 5, a fundraising gala on June 6, and a parade and block party on June 7—each event planned to showcase the theme 'Our Pride is Loud AF.' Local officials and parade leaders expect the celebration to attract over 10,000 people while emphasizing diversity and inclusion across the city.
JoAnn Falletta will return to conduct the Springfield Symphony Orchestra in its 'Something New' concert at Springfield Symphony Hall on April 19, where guest musicians Tim McAllister on sax and Nikki Chooi on violin will perform with visual choreography by Adrian Wyard.
The show will feature Fuchs’ 'Eventide,' Mendelssohn’s 'Violin Concerto,' and Ravel’s take on Mussorgsky’s 'Pictures at an Exhibition' (a tribute to Victor Hartmann) and will begin at 3 p.m. (doors open 30 minutes early).
Massachusetts Attorney General Joy Campbell issued citations Tuesday against 88 fast food spots such as Dunkin', McDonald's and Subway for breaking child labor laws by letting teens work too many hours without proper supervision.
The fines total $226,385 and cover many locations in the state.
State Rep. Angelo Puppolo filed a bill that would let Springfield and other towns with over 10% affordable housing add owner occupancy and parking rules when reviewing accessory dwelling unit applications—steps aimed at easing concerns about absentee landlords and parking shortages—after a new state law allowed ADUs by right in single-family zones.
Living Local 413 announced it will launch 413 Women’s Health Connect as the first program in its new Hot Topics series that brings the community together on women’s health.
The event will be held on May 21 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Carriage House at the Barney Estate in Springfield (featuring Robin Suave from Baystate Ob/Gyn Group) (and it will include in-person gatherings, an online forum, and a new podcast).
Candlelight Tribute to Adele
6-7:15 p.m. — Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame — Ticketed event — Experience the enchanting melodies of Adele illuminated by candlelight.
March For Jesus Celebration
10 AM – 12 PM — Holy Grounds Coffee House — Free entry — Celebrate the Risen Savior with a joyful march through Springfield.
Springfield Sheraton Easter Brunch
10 AM - 2 PM — Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel — Reservations required — Enjoy mouth-watering dishes and free photos with the Easter Bunny.
Veterans Support Group Meeting
3-4 p.m. — OCA Veterans Support Center — Free entry — Engage in a supportive environment designed for veterans in recovery.
Live Music from John Prout
1-4 p.m. — Great Awakening Brewing Co — Free entry — Enjoy live music while sipping on a variety of craft beers and fresh food.
Empower Your Finances Workshop
1:30-3 p.m. — Springfield Armory National Historic Site — Free entry — Equip yourself with skills and strategies for financial independence.
ROAR! Comedy: Corey Rodrigues
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of laughs with national touring comedian Corey Rodrigues.
Northeast Large Scale Train Show
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Better Living Center, Eastern States Exposition — $10 per day, $18 for 2 days — Explore model railroads, railroad art, and the rich history of railroading.
2025 Preservation Awards
7-8:30 p.m. — Springfield Performing Arts Ventures, Inc. — Cost information not specified — Celebrate the efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to restoring Springfield's historic structures.
Mother’s Day Bottomless Brunch at Union Station
10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Springfield Union Station — $5 – $46 — Enjoy a delightful array of bottomless cocktails and a lavish brunch spread with chef-attended stations.
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