Friday, September 26th, 2025
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 26th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Matthew Sosik, president and CEO of bankESB, has launched the 2025 Neighbors Helping Neighbors drive to support local food pantries by inviting donations from Oct. 1 to Oct. 31; donations will be matched dollar for dollar up to $2,500 per customer and benefit fourteen pantries across Western Mass. BusinessWest
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Ware High School in Springfield was evacuated after a gas leak was detected on September 25th at 5:45 p.m. and officials confirmed that all students were safely removed from the building as emergency crews responded. Western Mass News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Innovate413, led by Paul Silva, will fuel local tech startups with access to big employers and advanced AI tools using $150,000 from the Davis Foundation and $100,000 from MassMutual Foundation; the initiative will hold idea jams and hackathons this fall to connect entrepreneurs with real business needs—helping them avoid past models tied to property management. BusinessWest
- ➤ Area contractors in Western Mass are reporting a steady pipeline of projects as companies like Sexton Roofing & Siding, Mowry & Schmidt, and Keiter expand amid labor challenges and improved supply lines — they are focusing on clear communication and community ties to meet local demand. Mowry & Schmidt is working on an ice hockey arena and a historic renovation while Keiter recently opened a new office in Pittsfield — their actions show a resilient sector adapting to market needs. BusinessWest
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Western Mass. offers a variety of family-friendly Halloween events this October—local attractions include haunted drive-thru tours in Windsor, guided ghost walks at historic sites, and the Witch Panic! exhibit at Springfield Museums that explores early witchcraft rumors while pumpkin picking and corn mazes are featured at farms and mazes across the region. BusinessWest
- ➤ West Springfield native Caroline Morrissey was named the first executive director of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England+ she will manage daily operations and expand cultural programs. She brings global experience and a deep passion for her Irish roots. BusinessWest
- ➤ Western Mass News got an early look at Six Flags New England’s Fright Fest during a special walk-through today, where visitors can explore five haunted mazes, seven immersive scare zones, live shows, and a family-friendly kids boo fest. The event, which began over the weekend and will run until November 8th and 9th — with restrictions for children under 12 after 6 p.m. and guests under 17 without an adult chaperone — offers attractions designed to thrill and entertain a wide audience. Western Mass News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Home heating assistance applications are now available for Springfield residents — local officials say the program will help families manage higher heating costs as winter approaches. Western Mass News
- ➤ On September 24th, Springfield police held a pinning ceremony to promote six officers to sergeant (4:58 p.m.) in recognition of their service. The department celebrated the promotions as a step toward stronger leadership within the force. Western Mass News
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Shooting for Success
10 AM – 10 PM — Holyoke Community College — Community event — A transformative 3v3 tournament and career exploration experience empowering youth through sports.
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Hypertufa Pots Workshop
5-7 p.m. — Zenful Spaces — All materials included — Create unique hypertufa containers for your garden with step-by-step guidance in this hands-on workshop.
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Job Expo
4-7 p.m. — Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame — Free entry — Explore job opportunities and connect with local employers in a dynamic setting.
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Spirit & Grace Tour - Springfield
7:30-9:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — $1.00 service fee — Experience a vibrant evening of entertainment during the Spirit & Grace Tour.
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The Mighty Oktoberfest Celebration
5-11 p.m. — Student Prince Cafe and The Fort — Ticket includes one beer — Celebrate with authentic German food, live music, and festive atmosphere.
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Girls VolleyHall Classic Elite Tournament
8 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. — American International College — $10 for adults, free for students and children — Cheer on the top 36 high school girls' volleyball teams from the Northeast in this exciting tournament.
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New England Equitation Championships
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Eastern States Coliseum — Free admission — Experience five days of thrilling equestrian competition featuring top junior and adult riders.
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G&LW Gem Show - West Springfield
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — Wholesale only — Explore stunning gems and jewelry from various exhibitors in a charming New England setting.
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ROAR! Comedy Featuring Neema Naz
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy an evening of laughter with Iranian-Canadian stand-up comedian Neema Naz.
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Plantella: A Houseplant Expo
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — MassMutual Center — VIP Tickets: $20 | General Admission: $10 — Explore the best of houseplants and related businesses from the Northeast.
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
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~ Jeff Bezos
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