Posted inArts & Culture

Surprisingly welcoming

When a jobless migrant – a “hobo” or “tramp” – wandered into Springfield during the Great Depression, he might have been in for a surprise: a well-stocked shelter offering meals, a bed, work opportunities and even recreation. Springfield’s transient-aid program was part of the Federal Transient Service, set up in 1933 to help communities deal with the hordes […]

Posted inSpecial Issues

Springfield’s best (and only) ukulele band

The LeiAbouts like to boast. “We’re Springfield’s best ukulele band.” But then someone always pipes up. “Well, technically, we’re Springfield’s only ukulele band.” That’s the LeiAbouts’ usual approach. Take the music seriously (mostly). But never themselves. The LeiAbouts adopted their name (pronounced layabouts) because it characterizes their approach to the music. Besides, who can resist […]

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