Saturday, November 1st, 2025
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 1st of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Today from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Salvation Army in Springfield is expecting a surge at its Coats for Kids event as hundreds of local families face potential SNAP cuts later this month—an anticipated 27% rise in food needs is prompting the organization to provide coats, hats, gloves, and extra support. Western Mass News
- ➤ At Dakin Humane Society, care for each pet now costs $950 — a jump from $500 in 2015 due to rising veterinary and treatment expenses. The shelter relies on donations to help keep adoption fees affordable while giving animals full care. MassLive
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ LaTonia Monroe Naylor is running for reelection to the Springfield School Committee at-large. The candidate, a business leader and parent, stresses clear communication—she aims to boost family engagement and forge partnerships that link schools with local employers. MassLive
- ➤ Michele Pepe, a childcare provider with 45 years of experience and soon to earn her master's, is seeking an at-large seat on the Springfield School Committee—she focuses on boosting accountability and addressing staffing shortages as she challenges incumbents Latonia Naylor and Denise Hurst ahead of Tuesday, Nov. 4. This campaign highlights the need for better support for students and teachers amid ongoing issues within the school system. MassLive
- ➤ Peter Murphy, a 15-year incumbent on Springfield School Committee District 4, is running for reelection against challenger Ayanna Crawford—he aims to continue supporting safe schools and balanced budgets. The attorney and parent emphasized that his experience guides his focus on steady academic progress and secure school environments. MassLive
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A federal judge in Boston ruled Friday that USDA must use SNAP contingency funds to offer partial food aid starting today as the federal shutdown threatens benefits for millions. Massachusetts officials have arranged emergency funding for food banks and the White House must outline a plan by Monday—ensuring continued support while benefits remain at risk. New England Public Media
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Springfield Thunderbirds overcame a two-goal deficit to tie the game at 2-2 before losing 3-2 in overtime to the Hershey Bears Friday night at MassMutual Center — a penalty helped the Bears score the winning goal — leaving the team with a tough loss. They will host the Charlotte Checkers today at 6:05 p.m. at the Thunderdome. MassLive
-
Massachusetts Equine Affaire
9 a.m.-7 p.m. (Thurs-Sat), 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sun) — Eastern States Exposition — Ticket prices vary — Experience four days of equine excitement, education, and entertainment with top trainers and breed showcases.
-
Laval Rocket vs. Springfield Thunderbirds
10:35 AM — MassMutual Center — Ticketed event — Experience the excitement of AHL hockey as the Thunderbirds host their rivals, the Laval Rocket.
-
A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets on sale now — Experience a night of unforgettable music and stories with A.J. Croce's latest tour.
-
Jeff Dye Performance
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic flair of Jeff Dye live in Springfield.
-
Sweater Weather Paint & Pick Your Sip
6-8 p.m. — White Lion Brewing Company — Ticket required — Cozy up for a painting evening with included drinks and good vibes.
-
ROAR! Comedy: Frank Santos Jr.
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Free entry — Laugh the night away with Frank Santos Jr.'s hilarious comedy show.
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
Good habits make time your ally. Bad habits make time your enemy.
~ James Clear
About Springfield Morning News
Welcome to the Springfield Morning News, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Springfield, Massachusetts community. If you like the Springfield Morning News, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Springfield.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Springfield and across Massachusetts. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Springfield Morning News
A free Springfield community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.
© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://springfieldmorningnews.com/sitemap