Springfield
Morning News
Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 12th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Monte Belmonte appeared on 'So That Reminds Me' to discuss the 16th annual March for the Food Bank, where he will push an empty shopping cart on a 43-mile walk from Springfield to Greenfield on Nov. 24 and 25 to help raise funds for local pantries amid unstable SNAP benefits — he also noted a three-mile mini-march in Pittsfield on Nov. 22 that will offer volunteers a chance to prepare food bags for Thanksgiving support. The Reminder
- ➤ The Hampden County Sheriff’s Department is supporting the Salvation Army’s Toy for Joy campaign by donating funds and volunteer time to help deliver age-appropriate toys, games and books to children in need in our area. Families must register online at the Springfield Citadel through Nov. 14 and donations will be mailed to a new address while pickups will occur on Dec. 9, 10, 11, 15 and 16—ensuring a joyful holiday for local children. The Reminder
- ➤ On Veterans Day, Springfield honored its local veterans when retired police deputy chief Elmer McMahon was named Veteran of the Year and Michael Arillotta served as parade marshal—one of the youngest in recent memory—during the parade. MassLive
- ➤ Springfield chef Wayne Hooker died on Monday at age 70 + he was a key figure in local dining whose contributions will be remembered by many. Western Mass News
- ➤ Bishop William Byrne visited the food pantry at St. Mary’s Parish in Westfield on Nov. 6 to urge local residents to donate food and hygiene items as reduced SNAP benefits left more families in need—lines grew as demand for assistance increased quickly. Food pantry officials said donations of canned goods, pasta, and personal care items are essential to fill the shelves. The Reminder
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ On Tuesday night, a downed tree on Labelle Street — blocking Freida Street — caused power outages in West Springfield as crews worked to clear the area and advise drivers to use alternate routes. Western Mass News
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ MassMutual announced that it will pay an estimated $2.9 billion in dividends to eligible policyowners in 2026 + the dividend interest rate will rise to 6.60%, marking its largest payout and 158th consecutive year of issuing dividends. BusinessWest
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Over a million active-duty military members have not received a paycheck for 42 days as the shutdown continues, leaving many families facing financial strain. A Southwick veteran said the service members will eventually get their back pay—while he noted that Congress must act soon to resolve the issue. Western Mass News
- ➤ City leaders formed a coalition to help fight hunger as the federal SNAP program lost funding during the government shutdown—participants include Mayor Domenic Sarno, Sheriff Nick Cocchi, and NAACP officials. City departments are collecting food donations and a $40,000 state grant will support food programs while officials call on the federal government to restore benefits quickly. The Reminder
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Behavioral Health Network is now offering new autism support services through the New Abilities Learning Centers in Springfield — the centers provide Applied Behavior Analysis services on site and in-home, along with structured learning environments and calming sensory rooms for children with autism. Western Mass News
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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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5th Annual Kringle Market
10 AM – 4 PM — Nosh Café and Restaurant — $2 at the door — Celebrate the holidays with local artisans, festive food, and community spirit at this vibrant market.
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Holiday Sip & Shop
4:30-7:30 p.m. — Mercedes-Benz of Springfield — No entry fee — Enjoy festive refreshments while shopping local gifts and test driving Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
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Winter in Watercolor Workshop
10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. — Springfield Museums — $110, $94 for Members — Explore winter landscapes in watercolor with guidance from artist Andrea Mackin.
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MGM Springfield Basketball Hall of Fame Classic
4:30-7 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling basketball classic featuring UMass vs. Boston College and Yale vs. UAlbany in the birthplace of basketball.
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
Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right.
~ Henry Ford
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