Thursday, November 6th, 2025
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 6th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Today, the O’Dell Women’s Center Foundation announced $100,000 in emergency funding to support food pantries across Springfield as families struggle with SNAP cuts and a government shutdown — the funds will enable pantries to buy and distribute food to meet basic needs. BusinessWest
- ➤ TJO Animals will host its 18th annual Pawzaar Craft Fair on Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 52 Sumner Ave. in Springfield to raise funds for local homeless animals—featuring 40 handmade craft vendors, raffles, and a bake sale—and the indoor venue is chosen to avoid weather issues. The Reminder
- ➤ The Toy for Joy campaign has launched its 103rd drive to give children toys this holiday season, sponsored by the Salvation Army and supported by local partners — such as the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office and Reminder Publishing. Registration will be held at Springfield Citadel from Nov. 10th to 14th and toy pickups are set for Dec. 9th, 10th, 11th, 15th and 16th — with contributions accepted by mail and online. The Reminder
- ➤ Dress for Success Western Massachusetts is hosting a clothing drive to support a pop-up boutique at Thornes Marketplace on November 16 — the event will offer free professional attire from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and donations of freshly laundered business clothing are accepted until November 9 at several drop-off locations. The Reminder
- ➤ Revitalize CDC named Frank Robinson, a retired vice president from Baystate Health, and Nikki Gleason, a bank branch manager from Florence Bank, as new board members. The organization also elected Moyah Smith as board chair and Robin Youmans as board clerk to boost its efforts in community development in Springfield. BusinessWest
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Scott Szaban opened his bookstore A New Chapter on Oct. 7 at 209 Elm St in West Springfield and the community welcomed him warmly — his grand opening from Nov. 7 to Nov. 9 will include raffles and special offers for early shoppers. He plans to expand services with phone orders now and online sales soon as he works to keep the business thriving. The Reminder
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Jon Stetson, known as America’s 'Master Mentalist' (he has performed for presidents and foreign leaders), will take the stage at 52 Sumner in Springfield on Friday at 7 p.m. where he will read audience members' names, hometowns, and wishes to create an interactive mind-reading show. MassLive
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Girls on the Run Western Mass.—a nonprofit youth program—will host its Fall Season Celebratory 5K on Nov. 23 at Western New England University; participants can join activities starting at 9:30 a.m. with the race at 10:30 a.m., marking a milestone after the program celebrated ten years this spring. The Reminder
- ➤ SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University School of Law has announced a new part-time online JD program called JD Access that will start in fall; the program blends synchronous classes, asynchronous assignments, and limited in-person residencies to help working professionals and non-traditional students balance law school with their other commitments. BusinessWest
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A recent study by the American Heart Association found that using melatonin for over a year may raise the chance of heart failure by 90 percent. Baystate Health’s sleep expert Dr. Karin Johnson in Springfield said she prescribes only half a milligram (compared to the 10 or 20 milligrams most take) and urged patients to discuss potential risks with their doctors (the study examined about 130,000 people). Western Mass News
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Investopedia and Travel and Leisure ranked Springfield sixth among top U.S. retirement destinations, citing its affordable housing, low-cost living, and strong healthcare options. The city also offers low taxes on benefits and a mix of cultural spots—museums, parks, and community events—that help seniors enjoy urban life without high costs. MassLive
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Thunderbirds announced a tryout contract yesterday with former Bruins star Milan Lucic—who played four preseason games with the Blues and spent nine seasons in Boston including the Stanley Cup team in 2011. NewsRadio 560 WHYN
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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.
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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.
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Jeff Dye Performance
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic flair of Jeff Dye live in Springfield.
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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.
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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.
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ROAR! Comedy: Todd Barry
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets required — Experience an evening of laughter with comedian Todd Barry, known for his wit and TV appearances.
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Teddy Bear Toss Night
6:05-7:35 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket prices fluctuate — Bring a new teddy bear and toss it onto the ice after the first goal for a charitable cause.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.
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Reveal the authorAbout 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.
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