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Harmony House of Western Massachusetts highlights recent genorosity; gives 2026 outlook

CHICOPEE — The Harmony House of Western Massachusetts was in need of items listed on their Feb. 4 Amazon Wishlist, including toilet paper and exam gloves. Less than a week later, several people answered the call and donated those necessary items.

Puppolo hosts informational session on tax credits in Wilbraham

WILBRAHAM — With tax season upon us, state Rep. Angelo Puppolo hosted an informational event to educate about tax credits that people might not know they’re eligible for at the Wilbraham Senior Center on Feb. 12.

Davila calls for Whitfield resignation, councilors withhold judgement

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield City Council met on Feb. 13 to rescind a vote, but City Councilor Victor Davila called for Council President Tracye Whitfield to step down from her position amid controversy stemming from a financial and familial conflict of interest.

Changes on tap for Agawam’s 2026-27 school year

AGAWAM — Even though the current school year doesn’t end until June, plans are moving ahead for some changes in the district for the 2026-27 school year. School Superintendent Sheila Martin highlighted the changes in her “Superintendent’s Notes” portion of the School Committee’s Feb. 10 meeting.

Agawam City Council votes down municipal benefits for domestic partners

AGAWAM — Agawam employees must be married to claim benefits for their partner, the City Council decided at a meeting on Feb. 2.

East Longmeadow revokes liquor license from A’s Smoke Shop after hearing

EAST LONGMEADOW — After a disciplinary hearing during its Feb. 10 meeting, the East Longmeadow Town Council voted unanimously to revoke the off-premises retail beer and malt beverage license of A’s Smoke Shop after going through over 70 pages of evidence.

Holyoke Public Schools paraprofessionals seek new contract

HOLYOKE — Members of the Holyoke Paraprofessionals Association joined the School Committee meeting on Feb. 9 to express a desire for a new contract.

Holyoke School Committee selects Jackie Glasheen as next HPS superintendent

HOLYOKE — After interviewing three finalists last week, the Holyoke School Committee selected Assistant Superintendent Jackie Glasheen as the district’s next superintendent during a meeting on Feb. 12.

Easthampton We the People team wins ninth straight state title, nationals are next

EASTHAMPTON — The dynasty keeps rolling on as Easthampton High School’s We the People Team has won its ninth straight state title and are now once again are seeking donations from the community to help fund their trip to the national tournament in Washington D.C. this April.

Northampton City Council approves $290,000 in midyear appropriation to schools

NORTHAMPTON — The City Council voted to approve a $290,317 midyear appropriation to Northampton Public Schools during its Feb. 5 meeting.

Changes on tap for Agawam’s 2026-27 school year

AGAWAM — Even though the current school year doesn’t end until June, plans are moving ahead for some changes in the district for the 2026-27 school year. School Superintendent Sheila Martin highlighted the changes in her “Superintendent’s Notes” portion of the School Committee’s Feb. 10 meeting.

Changes on tap for Agawam’s 2026-27 school year

AGAWAM — Even though the current school year doesn’t end until June, plans are moving ahead for some changes in the district for the 2026-27 school year. School Superintendent Sheila Martin highlighted the changes in her “Superintendent’s Notes” portion of the School Committee’s Feb. 10 meeting.

Book highlights importance of middle school connection

SPRINGFIELD — For several years, Vilenti Tulloch has been training teachers and working with schoolchildren to learn vital lessons about creating environments in which children can learn. Now, Tulloch has authored a book, “Engage to Excel: Building Trust, Belonging and Success in the Middle School Years” to spread the core lesson that “care, trust and togetherness build connection.”

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Heartbeat of New Orleans music comes to Springfield

SPRINGFIELD — An all-star ensemble of musicians are coming to Springfield with the “Take Me to the River: New Orleans” concert at HOPE Center for the Arts on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. The concert is inspired by the 2022 documentary of the same name, which will be shown for free on Jan. 3 at 4 p.m.

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