Springfield
Morning News
Saturday, April 18th, 2026
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Irish Cultural Center in West Springfield has opened its Balise family–dedicated soccer field to host community sports like soccer, football and ultimate frisbee as the World Cup approaches. The center will hold viewing events and live Irish music on Saturday night. Western Mass News
- ➤ Today, the city announced that Franconia and Veterans Memorial Courses are open for the 2026 season after one-million-dollar renovations updated clubhouses built in the 1960s. The improvements will boost play for golfers of all ages in Springfield. NewsRadio 560 WHYN
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Hampshire College announced it will close in fall, leaving students with an uncertain future. Elms College in Chicopee now provides transfer support with a $5,000 Hampshire grant (plus an additional $4,000 residential aid and $1,000 for a visit), guaranteed housing and an accelerated financial aid review. Western Mass News
- ➤ One hundred high school teams from New England are competing at the Eastern States Exposition for the NE FIRST District Robotics Championship today in West Springfield. Agawam-based Rosie Robotics aims to defend its title with a redesigned, faster robot for the archaeology-themed challenge. Western Mass News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Gov. Healey may sign a new law by April 19 that doubles legal cannabis limits (raising flower allowances to two ounces and increasing thresholds for concentrates and edibles) so Springfield dispensaries can prepare for 4/20. MassLive
- ➤ Governor Healey unveiled the MassWins Act today to boost economic competitiveness by authorizing over $3 million in capital for lowering business costs, removing start-up barriers, and encouraging local talent development — a plan aimed at strengthening the state's long-term outlook. Western Mass News
- ➤ The state’s Department of Fire Services issued a safety warning about e-bike batteries after two house fires, including one at an Essex Street apartment in Holyoke on Thursday afternoon. Officials stressed proper charging, storage, use and disposal — guidelines meant to reduce fire risks. Western Mass News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ 25-year-old goalie Vadim Zherenko of the Thunderbirds, originally from Moscow, trains under coach Dan Stewart—who has worked with him for six years—as he pursues his dream of guarding the net. His hard work and focus make him a vital part of the local team. New England Public Media
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2026 Stifel Stars on Ice Tour
7-10 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket required for entry — Celebrate Olympic greatness with top U.S. Figure Skating stars showcasing breathtaking performances on ice.
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Play by the Books: A Novel Night of Creative Crafting
5:30-7:30 p.m. — Springfield Museums — $20 ($15 for members) — Celebrate literature and creativity with art-making stations and a gallery tour.
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
Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.
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Reveal the authorAbout Springfield Morning News
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