Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 3rd of December.
Good morning, Springfield.
MGM Springfield joined ROCK102 hosts Bax and Nagle to sort through thousands of pounds of food donated during the ROCK102 Mayflower Marathon on Giving Tuesday at Open Pantry Community Services—recording over $262K and marking a new record in the event’s 32nd year.
The effort supported local families facing food insecurity.
The Springfield City Library is collecting new and gently used coats, hats, gloves, and mittens for adults and children until January 17th.
Donations including socks, undergarments, baby diapers, and wipes will help Gray House—Springfield Rescue Mission.
The expanded Springfield shelter run by the Urban Impact Initiative opened Monday evening and doubled its capacity from 25 to 50 beds ahead of the season’s first major snow storm using $420,000 from state funds and $377,000 from city American Rescue funds to repair the church gym’s heating system—social workers and community members reported receiving calls on Tuesday. The shelter will remain open every night through the end of February, serving meals at 6:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis while it seeks donations of emergency items.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Presbyterian Church reopened last month in its newly renovated sanctuary at 22 Concord Terrace with a labyrinth floor design—symbolizing renewal—after a racially motivated arson five years ago.
The 40-member congregation rebuilt the $2.5 million building with American Rescue funding while federal prosecutors move forward with charges against the indicted arsonist, who is scheduled for a court hearing next month.
The region’s first winter storm brought heavy snow to parts of Massachusetts on Tuesday as towns reported between 2 and 6 inches falling at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, and drivers faced hazardous conditions—some northern areas were expected to reach up to 10 inches.
In Springfield, sleet changed to rain by early evening, complicating travel.
After no winner on Monday night, the Powerball jackpot increased to an estimated $775 million ahead of today's drawing at 10:59 p.m.—tickets can be purchased until 9:50 p.m. at local retailers, including Point Liquors in Quincy and Market Basket in Methuen where two Massachusetts players won $50,000 each.
Urban Impact Initiative bought the old Gunn Block building at 473-477 State St. for $110,000 in November and plans to restart its stalled restoration soon—repairing the roof, windows, and walls to preserve this piece of Springfield’s history.
The nonprofit will use the building for a community café, offices, training courses, and affordable housing.
On Monday night, the Patriots ran backups Vederian Lowe and Ben Brown on the offensive line to fill in for injured starters and help win against the Giants.
Their strong play kept quarterback Drake Maye in the game despite three sacks and two hits.
On Dec 1st, Patriots returner Marcus Jones scored a ninety-four yard punt return touchdown against the Giants despite not playing offense this season, adding to his three touchdowns.
Teammates including Stefon Diggs joked with him on the sideline—showing their excitement after his big play.
On Dec 1, New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye led his team to a 33–15 win over the New York Giants at Foxborough by quickly moving the ball and throwing two touchdown passes.
His strong play helped improve the team's record + set them up for a bye week.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Polish Christmas Decorations: Design, History, and Meaning
12:15-1:30 p.m. — Springfield Museums — $4 for residents, FREE for members — Discover the vibrant history and craft of Polish Christmas decorations with artist Susan Urban.
Breakfast with Santa
9-11 a.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket price supports local charity — Enjoy a festive breakfast while meeting Santa and supporting a good cause.
25th Anniversary of the Festival of Trees
10 AM – 5 PM — MassMutual Center — Support local youth programs while enjoying a delightful display of beautifully decorated trees.
New England's Funniest Comedy Showcase
8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticketed event — Experience a night of big laughs and fresh voices from New England's top comics.
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