Good morning, Springfield.

On Wednesday, the Boys and Girls Club opened a new teen center for teenagers aged 13 to 18 that features a music room, gaming area and study lounge, and it will soon add job placement support; the center was funded in part by a $20,000 grant (Aaron's Co. Inc.) and $70,000 raised locally.

The Springfield School Committee approved a $670.9 million budget for fiscal 2026 that raises spending by about 7% to boost support for students with disabilities and early literacy while federal grant funds dropped after pandemic relief money expired—raising concerns that losing future grants may cut funding for free lunch and classroom services.

Retired Springfield police K-9 Blek died on May 1 at age 13—I served from 2012 until his retirement in 2021 and he was credited with finding suspects and recovering evidence.

Springfield officials outlined plans to replace the old Roderick Ireland Courthouse at a Wednesday city hall meeting—proposals will be accepted in Q3, a bidder chosen in Q1, and the lease signed in the next quarter.

Mayor Domenic Sarno said the public-private partnership is expected to open the new courthouse in about four years while improvements continue for the current building.

Travel and Leisure named Springfield and Pittsfield among the best places to retire, noting that Springfield offers attractions like MGM and local event venues while Pittsfield is praised for its arts, theaters and quality health care.

The list looked at housing costs, health care and cultural activities — factors that make these cities appealing for retirees.

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.

EASTEC Manufacturing Trade Show

8 AM - 5 PM — Eastern States Exposition — Check website for details — Discover cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and strategies at this major trade show.

ROAR! Comedy: Aaron Chen

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Fun experience — Enjoy an exciting night of laughter with Aaron Chen, a rising star in comedy from Australia.

ROAR! Comedy: Aaron Chen

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising star Aaron Chen from Australia.

Volunteer Fair

On Sunday, May 18 at 1pm, over a dozen local non-profit organizations will be on hand to talk about the work they do and the volunteer opportunities they offer. The event is free and open to the public.

Comedy Night with Nicky Smigs

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Experience laughs with a talented comedian who started at Second City Chicago.

30th Anniversary Self Advocacy Conference

9 AM – 4 PM — Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel — Registration required — Celebrate three decades of self advocacy and connect with like-minded individuals.

Open Home Tour

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — 47 Garfield St, Springfield, MA — Free entry — Explore a charming property listed by J Barrett & Company.